Your unfinished basement is sitting on a goldmine of square footage. In this comprehensive guide, Mike Sansing of Your Handyman Pros walks through everything Salt Lake Valley homeowners need to know about basement remodeling: budgeting ($30–$140+/sq ft depending on finish level), waterproofing and moisture control for Utah's climate, egress window requirements, framing, electrical and plumbing rough-ins, the booming I-ADU trend, and when to call in a licensed general contractor instead of going DIY.

The one document that stands between a successful project and a messy legal dispute. In the finale of our series, Mike Sansing of Your Handyman Pros walks through exactly what needs to be in writing before any work starts — a detailed scope of work, milestone-based payment schedules, change order clauses for surprises, material specs down to model numbers, permit responsibility, lien waivers, and cleanup rules. Plus Mike's Golden Rule: if it's not in writing, it doesn't exist.

Most homeowners see permits, licenses, and insurance as hurdles that add cost and time — but they're actually the only thing standing between a dream renovation and a legal nightmare. In Part 2 of our series, Mike Sansing of Your Handyman Pros breaks down Utah DOPL license classifications (B100 vs E200 vs P200), how to verify a contractor's license online, the difference between General Liability and Workers' Comp, and city-specific permit quirks in Sandy, Herriman, and West Valley. Plus why "you don't need a permit" is a major red flag.

A bid is more than a price tag — it's a window into how a contractor runs their business. In Part 1 of our new series, Mike Sansing of Your Handyman Pros breaks down the red flags (vague bids, cash-only, pressure to sign) and green flags (detailed line items, active DOPL license, current insurance) every Salt Lake Valley homeowner needs to spot before signing a contract. Plus, when to call a handyman vs a licensed contractor.

You've made it through the whole 2026 Remodeling Guide — now it's time for the million-dollar question: Can you DIY it, or should you call a pro? In the finale of our series, Mike Sansing of Your Handyman Pros lays out "Mike's Rule" for knowing when to pick up the hammer vs when to pick up the phone, the real cost of DIY mistakes (including a Sandy homeowner's $5,000 shower pan lesson), and how Your Handyman Pros and Your Contractor Pros fit every project size across the Salt Lake Valley.

Sitting on an unfinished basement? In Part 4 of our 2026 Remodeling Guide, Mike Sansing of Your Handyman Pros breaks down how to turn that underutilized space into a rental income machine or the ultimate family hangout — covering HB 82 ADU rules, egress windows, fire separation, ceiling heights, HVAC zoning, and city-specific quirks from Herriman to Bountiful. Plus the ROI math: $800–$1,500/mo in potential rental income.

Ready to turn your cramped bathroom into a spa-at-home? In Part 3 of our 2026 Remodeling Guide, Mike Sansing of Your Handyman Pros breaks down the 2026 bathroom trends that actually pay off — curbless walk-in showers, floating vanities, smart mirrors, heated floors, and proper ventilation. Plus what to splurge on vs save on for the best ROI in the Salt Lake Valley. Whether you're updating a historic home in The Avenues or a modern build in Herriman, this one's for you.

The kitchen is the heart of the home — and the #1 room that makes or breaks a home sale. In Part 2 of our 2026 Remodeling Guide, Mike Sansing of Your Handyman Pros breaks down the 2026 kitchen trends that actually hold value: cabinet refacing vs full replacement, countertop ROI (quartz still king), layered lighting, layout principles, and the surprising stat that minor refreshes are outperforming full gut remodels in the Salt Lake Valley. Whether you're in Sugar House or Herriman, here's how to spend your money where it counts.

Dreaming of a big remodel in 2026 but don't know where to start? In Part 1 of our new series, Mike Sansing of Your Handyman Pros walks you through the five essential steps — defining your project scope, setting a realistic 2026 budget with a 20% contingency, navigating Salt Lake Valley permit timelines, and why hiring a licensed B100 GC first saves you money. Whether you're in Sandy, Herriman, or West Valley, this is the foundation you need before the first hammer swings.

Five parts. One complete guide. Whether you're shopping for rental income or a guest suite for mom, we've got the whole basement apartment vs. guest suite series wrapped up in one place. Mike Sansing of Your Handyman Pros walks you through zoning, costs, design, and the final pre-construction checklist — all tailored for Salt Lake Valley homeowners. Not sure where to start? This recap points you to the right post for your situation.

After four parts covering everything from zoning to costs to design, we're wrapping up the series with the definitive guide to crossing the finish line. Mike Sansing of Your Handyman Pros delivers a 6-step pre-construction checklist — covering budget, site audits, permits, and hiring the right team — plus the final verdict on whether a basement apartment or guest suite wins based on your goals. Ready to break ground in the Salt Lake Valley? Here's exactly how to start.

Worried about how much a basement apartment or guest suite will set you back in 2026? In Part 3 of our series, Mike Sansing of Your Handyman Pros breaks down the real costs for Salt Lake Valley homeowners — from $40k–$80k+ for a legal IADU to $15k–$35k for a simple guest suite. Plus hidden city fees, financing options, and what kind of ROI you can actually expect in Herriman, Sandy, Riverton, and beyond.

Basement Apartment vs. Guest Suite: Which Is Better For Your Salt Lake Home? – Part 1: The Big Picture Breakdown

Thinking about finishing your basement? Before you start shopping for tile, there's a big question you need to answer — are you building a basement apartment or a guest suite? They might sound like the same thing, but legally and functionally, they're worlds apart. In Part 1 of our new 5-part series, I break down the difference between an Internal ADU (rental) and a guest suite (family use), why your city's zoning rules actually matter, and how to pick the right path for your home in Herriman, Sandy, or West Valley City. 🏠🔨

Worried about Utah's 2026 building codes ruining your remodel plans? If you're a homeowner in the Salt Lake Valley, you've probably heard the rumors — touch one wire and you'll have to rewire the whole house. I'm Michael Sansing, owner of Your Handyman Pros, and I'm here to tell you: take a deep breath. Let's clear up what actually needs to be up to code and what doesn't.