The Garage Feature That's Worth The Upgrade And Increases Home Value
Our garages are the catch-alls for life's extras. It's where you pile up everything from your holiday decorations to forgotten paint cans. It's your weekend workshop, your charging station for power tools, your mini-gym, and even a place to tinker on that hobby project that always seems to get postponed. In short, we use our garages for convenience, yet we rarely pause to think about how functional they are. Amidst all that storage and activity, one simple upgrade can change the way your garage works for you and may even boost your property value. We're talking about adding a minimum of two electrical outlets, specifically the GFCI models, because they eliminate the risk of electrical hazards and make your garage functional and safe for everyday use.
If you've ever struggled to plug in a drill while running a shop vac at the same time or cursed the lone outlet that's tucked behind boxes and unreachable without a tangle of extension cords, you know exactly why this matters. Having more GFCI outlets can solve real problems. Many old garages, for example, were built when a few basic lights or a single appliance were all you needed. Today, we're plugging in battery chargers, electrical heaters, smart gadgets, and all sorts of power-hungry tools. Having more outlets is one of the most-wanted garage features that keeps you from juggling devices or relying on extension cords. For potential buyers, a garage wired for such convenience is a feature that speaks volumes about the home's readiness for modern living.
How much do GFCI outlets cost and how much value do they add?
Most electricians charge somewhere between $60-$100+ per hour for labor. But that range depends on your area, their experience, and let's be honest, how booked they are. If they're a highly seasoned electrician in a busy city, expect the higher end of the range. If they're someone newer or in a smaller market, you may save a bit.
Now, the outlet itself is another piece of the puzzle. A standard GFCI outlet typically costs around $10-$20. However, if your garage is prone to humidity or you've got water lines nearby, you may want to invest in a weather-resistant GFCI outlet for $35+. For those looking for extra functionality, a GFCI outlet with built-in USB ports is a great option. These units can climb up to $40 or more, depending on the brand and features.
And yes, you'd also require an electrical permit, which the electrician typically handles, but it's another $50-$100+ added to the tab. So, for a single professionally installed outlet, you're realistically looking at a total of $200-$350+. It's not pocket change, but it's one of those garage upgrades with the best return on investment. The amount of money these outlets add to your home's resale value will depend on a potential buyer's desire for the safety and convenience they provide. It's something that can be added to the listing as a selling point, though.