Take advantage of our fantastic 50/50 - ZERO % interest financing program

On New Ground Inc.
  • Home
  • About us
  • 50/50 Financing
  • Services
    • Our Services
  • Gallery
    • Additions/Garage makeover
    • Project ideas
    • Some of our recent work
    • Decks/Patios
    • Backyard builds
    • In-law/airbnb
  • Contact
  • Blog
  • FAQ
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    • Local Municipalities
    • Ontario Resources
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  • More
    • Home
    • About us
    • 50/50 Financing
    • Services
      • Our Services
    • Gallery
      • Additions/Garage makeover
      • Project ideas
      • Some of our recent work
      • Decks/Patios
      • Backyard builds
      • In-law/airbnb
    • Contact
    • Blog
    • FAQ
    • Resources
      • Local Municipalities
      • Ontario Resources
      • Federal Resources
On New Ground Inc.
  • Home
  • About us
  • 50/50 Financing
  • Services
    • Our Services
  • Gallery
    • Additions/Garage makeover
    • Project ideas
    • Some of our recent work
    • Decks/Patios
    • Backyard builds
    • In-law/airbnb
  • Contact
  • Blog
  • FAQ
  • Resources
    • Local Municipalities
    • Ontario Resources
    • Federal Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

Please reach us at info@onnewground.ca if you cannot find an answer to your question.


On New Ground Inc. provides complete construction, renovation, and landscaping services for homeowners and businesses throughout Peterborough, Kawartha Lakes, and surrounding communities.

Residential Construction & Renovations

  • Home additions
  • Basement finishing and remodeling
  • Kitchen renovations
  • Bathroom renovations
  • Whole-home renovations
  • Garage conversions
  • In-law suites and secondary dwelling units
  • Attic and unused space conversions
  • Interior and exterior upgrades
  • Custom carpentry and finishing work

Commercial Renovations

  • Office renovations
  • Retail space improvements
  • Interior remodeling
  • Tenant fit-ups
  • Accessibility upgrades
  • Commercial maintenance and improvements

Landscaping & Outdoor Living

  • Complete landscape design and installation
  • Retaining walls
  • Interlock walkways and patios
  • Deck construction
  • Pergolas and gazebos
  • Fire pits and outdoor gathering spaces
  • Grading and drainage solutions
  • Property enhancements and curb appeal projects

Fencing & Post Installation

  • Wood, vinyl, and decorative fencing
  • Privacy fences
  • Fence repairs and replacements
  • Post hole drilling
  • Professional fence setting and installation

Specialized Services

  • Soil compaction testing
  • Site preparation
  • Garage-to-rental conversions
  • Airbnb and short-term rental renovations
  • Accessibility modifications
  • Home value improvement projects for homeowners preparing to sell

Financing Options

We also offer our exclusive 50/50 Financing Program, allowing qualified homeowners to pay 50% upfront while we finance the remaining 50% at 0% interest, making larger projects more affordable and accessible.

From concept and permits to construction and finishing, On New Ground provides a single point of contact and complete project management to bring your vision to life.


Yes, we are fully licensed and insured for your protection.


 

What Does It Cost to Finish a Basement in Peterborough?

The cost to finish a basement in the Peterborough area depends on the size, layout, and features you choose, but homeowners can generally expect the following ranges:

Basement ProjectTypical Cost RangeBasic finishing (walls, flooring, lighting, paint)$35,000–$50,000Mid-range renovation with a bathroom and bedroom$45,000–$70,000Premium basement with bar, home theatre, gym, or custom features$70,000–$120,000+Legal secondary suite or in-law apartment$80,000–$150,000+ 

Factors that affect pricing include:

  • Basement size and ceiling height 
  • Electrical and plumbing upgrades 
  • Adding bathrooms or kitchenettes 
  • Egress window installation 
  • Insulation and waterproofing requirements 
  • Flooring and finish selections 
  • Permit and inspection costs 
  • Fire separation requirements for legal rental units 

On New Ground's limited-time basement package starts at $45,000 + HST and includes:

  • One 10' × 10' bedroom 
  • A three-piece bathroom 
  • One-colour interior painting 
  • An egress window 
  • Insulated and finished walls 
  • Standard flooring selections 

Every home is different, which is why we provide free site visits within two business days and detailed quotes within 48 hours to give homeowners an accurate price based on their goals and budget.Add an answer to this item.



Yes. In most cases, Ontario homeowners can build an in-law suite, also known as an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) or secondary suite, provided local zoning, building code, and fire safety requirements are met.

In-law suites can be created in:

  • Basements 
  • Attached garages 
  • Detached garages 
  • Attics 
  • Above-garage spaces 
  • Pool houses and accessory buildings (subject to municipal regulations) 

Typical requirements include:

  • Building permits and inspections 
  • Proper ceiling heights 
  • Safe exits and egress windows 
  • Fire separation between units 
  • Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms 
  • Adequate plumbing, heating, and ventilation 
  • Compliance with local parking and zoning bylaws 

Adding an in-law suite can provide numerous benefits, including:

  • Additional monthly rental income 
  • Space for aging parents or adult children 
  • Increased property value 
  • Greater flexibility for multigenerational living 
  • Potential short-term rental opportunities where permitted 

At On New Ground, we help homeowners navigate the entire process—from design and permits to construction and final inspections—ensuring your new in-law suite is beautiful, functional, and fully code-compliant.

Need a free consultation? We can assess your basement, garage, attic, or accessory building and help determine the best and most cost-effective option for creating additional living space and generating income from your property.answer to this item.



In many cases, absolutely. A well-designed garage conversion can significantly increase your home's usable living space, improve property value, and even generate rental income.

Benefits of a Garage Conversion

Increase Property Value
Converting an underused garage into functional living space can boost resale value, especially when adding a home office, guest suite, gym, or in-law accommodation.

Generate Monthly Income
Many homeowners transform garages into legal secondary suites or short-term rentals, creating an additional source of income that helps offset mortgage or renovation costs.

Avoid the Cost of Moving
If your family needs more space, converting an existing structure is often more affordable and less disruptive than buying a larger home.

Create Flexible Living Space
Popular garage conversions include:

  • Home offices
  • Entertainment rooms
  • Home gyms
  • In-law suites
  • Guest accommodations
  • Art or music studios
  • Teen retreats
  • Airbnb rentals (where permitted)

What Is the Return on Investment?

The return depends on the quality of the renovation, local market conditions, and how the space is used. Well-executed conversions often provide strong returns through:

  • Increased resale value
  • Rental income opportunities
  • Improved functionality and lifestyle benefits

What Should Homeowners Consider?

Before starting a garage conversion, ask:

  • Will permits be required?
  • Does local zoning allow secondary suites or short-term rentals?
  • Is additional parking required?
  • Will plumbing, insulation, or HVAC upgrades be needed?
  • Do I still need covered parking or storage space?

The Bottom Line

For many homeowners in Peterborough and the Kawartha region, a garage conversion is one of the most cost-effective ways to add valuable living space without building an addition or moving. When properly designed and constructed, it can provide both immediate lifestyle benefits and long-term financial returns.

At On New Ground Inc., we help clients evaluate whether a garage conversion makes sense for their goals, budget, and property, guiding them through design, permits, construction, and finishing from start to finish.



If you're preparing to sell your home, strategic improvements can often increase your selling price far more than the cost of the work itself. The key is focusing on renovations that buyers notice immediately and that provide the highest return on investment.

1. Improve Curb Appeal

First impressions matter. Buyers often form an opinion within seconds of arriving at a property.

High-impact improvements include:

  • Fresh landscaping
  • New mulch and garden beds
  • Retaining walls
  • Walkway repairs
  • New fencing
  • Pressure washing
  • Exterior painting and touch-ups
  • Front door upgrades

2. Refresh Kitchens and Bathrooms

Kitchens and bathrooms are among the most important rooms for buyers.

Consider:

  • New countertops
  • Updated hardware
  • Modern lighting
  • Fresh paint
  • New faucets and fixtures
  • Refinished cabinets
  • Updated flooring

A complete renovation is not always necessary. Often, cosmetic improvements deliver an excellent return.

3. Finish Unused Space

Additional living space is highly attractive to buyers.

Popular projects include:

  • Basement finishing
  • Garage conversions
  • Home offices
  • Recreation rooms
  • In-law suites
  • Additional bedrooms

Finished square footage can significantly increase a home's marketability.

4. Paint Everything

Fresh paint remains one of the most affordable ways to increase perceived value.

Neutral colours help buyers envision themselves living in the space and make rooms appear brighter and cleaner.

5. Repair Deferred Maintenance

Buyers and home inspectors quickly notice neglected repairs.

Address:

  • Damaged drywall
  • Leaking faucets
  • Loose railings
  • Cracked tiles
  • Broken fixtures
  • Worn flooring
  • Deck and fence repairs

Small issues can create the impression of larger hidden problems.

6. Upgrade Outdoor Living Spaces

Buyers increasingly value outdoor entertaining areas.

Projects with strong appeal include:

  • Decks
  • Patios
  • Pergolas
  • Gazebos
  • Fire pit areas
  • Outdoor lighting

7. Create an Income Opportunity

One of the fastest-growing value-add improvements is creating:

  • Legal basement apartments
  • In-law suites
  • Garage apartments
  • Accessory dwelling units

Properties with income potential often attract more buyers and command higher selling prices.

8. Declutter and Stage the Home

Before listing:

  • Remove excess furniture
  • Organize storage areas
  • Deep clean the home
  • Improve lighting
  • Stage key rooms

A well-presented home can have a major impact on buyer perception.

Which Renovations Typically Offer the Best Return?

In the Peterborough and Kawartha region, the projects that often provide the strongest return include:

  1. Fresh paint and cosmetic updates
  2. Kitchen improvements
  3. Bathroom renovations
  4. Landscaping and curb appeal upgrades
  5. Decks and patios
  6. Basement finishing
  7. Garage conversions
  8. In-law suites and rental accommodations

How Can On New Ground Help?

At On New Ground Inc., we offer a Home Value Assessment Walkthrough to help homeowners identify the improvements most likely to increase their property's market value before listing. Instead of overspending on unnecessary renovations, we focus on projects that maximize return on investment and help homes sell faster and for more money.

Whether you need a quick refresh, a basement renovation, landscaping improvements, or a complete pre-sale makeover, our team can help you make the right investments before your home hits the market.Add an answer to this item.



Not all renovations deliver the same value. If your goal is to maximize resale price or prepare your home for sale, focus on projects that buyers consistently value and that offer strong returns.

1. Landscaping and Curb Appeal (80–150% ROI)

A well-maintained exterior creates a powerful first impression and can significantly increase buyer interest.

Popular improvements include:

  • New garden beds and mulch
  • Retaining walls
  • Interlock walkways
  • Fresh sod and grading
  • Fencing
  • Front entrance upgrades
  • Decks and patios

2. Kitchen Renovations (70–100% ROI)

The kitchen is often the most important room to potential buyers.

High-return updates include:

  • New countertops
  • Cabinet refacing or painting
  • Modern lighting
  • Updated backsplashes
  • Energy-efficient appliances
  • New flooring and fixtures

3. Bathroom Renovations (70–90% ROI)

Modern, clean bathrooms add immediate value and appeal.

Strong investments include:

  • Walk-in showers
  • Updated vanities
  • New tile and flooring
  • Improved lighting
  • Water-efficient fixtures

4. Basement Finishing (70–90% ROI)

An unfinished basement represents untapped living space.

Finished basements can provide:

  • Family rooms
  • Home offices
  • Additional bedrooms
  • Home gyms
  • Entertainment spaces
  • Legal secondary suites

5. Garage Conversions (60–100%+ ROI)

Converting an underused garage into living space can dramatically increase functionality and, in some cases, generate rental income.

Popular conversions include:

  • Home offices
  • Guest suites
  • In-law accommodations
  • Airbnb rentals (where permitted)
  • Recreation rooms

6. Decks, Patios, and Outdoor Living Spaces (65–90% ROI)

Outdoor entertaining areas continue to be highly desirable.

Projects that attract buyers include:

  • Composite or wood decks
  • Stone patios
  • Pergolas and gazebos
  • Fire pit areas
  • Outdoor kitchens

7. Energy-Efficiency Improvements (60–100% ROI)

Buyers increasingly appreciate lower operating costs.

Examples include:

  • New insulation
  • Energy-efficient windows and doors
  • Smart thermostats
  • Improved HVAC systems
  • LED lighting upgrades

8. In-Law Suites and Secondary Units (Potentially 100%+ ROI)

Creating legal rental accommodations can significantly increase property value by providing future income opportunities.

These projects may include:

  • Basement apartments
  • Garage apartments
  • Detached accessory dwelling units
  • Multigenerational living spaces

Best ROI Projects in the Peterborough & Kawartha Region

For homeowners in this market, the highest-value investments are typically:

RenovationTypical ROILandscaping & Curb Appeal80–150%Kitchen Updates70–100%Bathroom Renovations70–90%Basement Finishing70–90%Decks & Patios65–90%Garage Conversions60–100%+Energy Upgrades60–100%Legal Secondary Suites100%+ potential

The Bottom Line

The best renovations are those that improve how people live in the home while also increasing its market appeal. Strategic investments in kitchens, bathrooms, outdoor spaces, finished basements, and income-generating suites often deliver the strongest returns.

At On New Ground Inc., we help homeowners identify the projects that provide the greatest value for their specific property, budget, and future plans—whether they're selling next year or staying for decades to come.


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