If you’re reading this post, it’s likely you stumbled upon the term “FROG” while browsing through home listings. You’re wondering, “What does FROG mean in real estate?”
FROG is perhaps one of the most fun acronyms used in the home buying and selling arena. And if you keep reading, you’ll discover why a FROG can be one of the most fun or useful extra living spaces in your new house.
We’ll also share why you might be attracted to a FROG, their pros and cons, comparisons with other spaces, common uses, and how to find a home that has a FROG.
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What does FROG mean in real estate?
In a home listing or architectural plan, FROG refers to a Finished Room Over Garage — a versatile space that can significantly impact a home’s appeal and functionality.
This unique feature refers to an additional living space that has been fully completed and is located above the garage of a house. Unlike standard attic or basement conversions, a FROG is specifically designed to be a functional and comfortable part of the home, often with its own heating and cooling systems. FROGs offer flexible space that can serve multiple purposes.
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What are FROG rooms used for in a home?
Given its separate location from the main living areas, a FROG provides an element of privacy and seclusion, making it an attractive option for homeowners looking for extra space without the need for a full home extension or conversion project.
The versatility of a Finished Room Over Garage also makes it an attractive feature for many home shoppers. Here are some common uses for this adaptable space:
- Home office
- Home theater
- Game or entertainment room
- Guest or additional bedroom
- Reading room or library
- Fitness or yoga studio
- Art studio
- Music or recording studio
- Hobby or craft room
- Children’s playroom
- Rental to tenants for steady income
- Vacation Airbnb rentals for seasonal income
- Additional living space for gatherings
FROG vs. bedroom vs. bonus room
In real estate terms, a bedroom must include specific features: a door that can be closed, at least one window, and a closet. Many FROGs lack closets, which is why they’re often not listed as bedrooms, even if they share similar dimensions and utility.
The difference between FROGs and bonus rooms is a bit like the relationship between amphibians. All frogs are amphibians, but not all amphibians are frogs. (Some are toads, newts, and salamanders.) Similarly, all FROGs are considered bonus rooms due to their additional, versatile space, but the reverse isn’t true.
What sets a FROG apart is its specific location — situated over the garage and typically at the front of the house. This designation informs you that the space is not found in a basement or on the main level, but in its unique perch, providing additional privacy and separation from the rest of the home.
Pros and cons of FROGS in homes
FROGs, or Finished Rooms Over Garages, offer unique advantages and challenges to homeowners. Understanding these can help you decide if a home with a FROG is right for you.
Pros
- Versatility: As noted in our list above, FROGs can be transformed into almost any type of room you need, from a home office to a guest suite.
- Privacy: Located away from the main living areas, FROGs offer a secluded space, ideal for a home office or a teen’s bedroom.
- Added value: Homes with FROGs often have higher resale values due to the additional livable space.
- Income potential: Renting out a FROG as an apartment or through vacation rental services can provide an extra income stream.
- Separate from main living areas: This can reduce noise transfer between the FROG and the rest of the home, making it ideal for a home theater or music room.
Cons
- Access: Some FROGs might require going through the garage or an external or non-traditional staircase, which might not be ideal for everyone.
- Heating and cooling challenges: Because they’re located above a garage, FROGs can be harder to keep warm in winter and cool in summer, potentially leading to higher energy costs.
- Limited natural light: Depending on the design and which direction they face, some FROGs may have fewer windows, resulting in less natural light.
- Building regulations and costs: Adding or remodeling a FROG can be subject to strict building codes, and the costs can be significant.
- Noise from the garage: If the garage is used frequently, noise can travel into the FROG, which might be disruptive.
How do I find a home with a FROG?
Here are some tips to help you in your search to find a home with a Finished Room Over Garage (FROG):
- Use online real estate platforms: Many websites allow you to filter your home search by specific features. Use keywords like “FROG,” “bonus room,” or “room over garage” in your search criteria.
- Work with a real estate agent: An experienced agent can be invaluable in your search. They often have extensive knowledge of local listings and can identify homes with FROGs even if not explicitly listed as such.
- Check out new constructions: Many new homes are designed with FROGs as part of their floor plans. Exploring communities under development can be a fruitful way to find a home with this feature.
- Drive through neighborhoods: Sometimes, the best way to find a home with a FROG is by driving through desirable neighborhoods and looking for homes with attached garages that might include a room above them.
- Network with homeowners: Attend open houses or community events to connect with homeowners. They can offer insights into the area and might know of available properties with FROGs.
- Social media and real estate forums: Joining local real estate groups on social media or forums can be a great way to discover listings or get tips from others who have successfully found homes with FROGs.
How much does it cost to add a FROG to a house?
Adding a Finished Room Over Garage (FROG) to your house can be an excellent way to increase living space and potentially enhance your home’s value. However, the cost can vary widely depending on several factors. Here are two typical estimates:
- Converting an existing space over a garage: According to HomeAdvisor, the typical cost to finish an attic space into a bedroom is $40,000, but you may pay as little as $12,000 or over $70,000. Angi estimates a similar cost range, from $10,000 to $50,000.
- Adding a new room over a garage: According to House Digest, the cost to actually build an additional room over your garage can range from $32,000 to $100,000 for a 400- to 500-square-foot space, or about $80 to $200 per square foot. HomeAdvisor puts a room addition at $22,224 to $81,830, or roughly $100 to $300 per square foot.
Factors that can impact your final cost include:
- Size and complexity
- Materials
- Labor
- Permits and regulations
- Access to the space
- Insulation and HVAC
