I've never head anyone say - "We have too much garage space". Garage space is relatively inexpensive compared to sq/ft costs of a home. You don't have to heat it or carpet it or furnish it. The extra cost will be for the extended slab, walls, roof and door. Be careful you don't shrink your garage too much. A Miata is what you have now, but what if you want to buy something else down the road? Remember, too, to allow space to get in, out and walk around your vehicles. It's amazing how big a car becomes once it is in an enclosed space. Especially trucks or SUVs with oversized mirrors. A too small garage can become a daily source of irritation - not to mention the possibility of damaging your cars if you can't open the doors without hitting the wall or another car. If you plan to have a yard, you'll need someplace to store tools and mowers and such as well. Be sure and engineer the trusses/joists above the garage to support the extra weight of your bonus room floor and the storage space.

I'd go for House #1. Thinking, get out that bad rental, and who knows really when #2 will be ready. Developers make all kinds of promises that don't come through, and you sure are right about the pricing. (will leave out long, nearly identical story that happened to friends, pricing left them in a pickle) Also, I know you're thinking playroom now, but not knowing how old your kids are and how long you plan to stay in this house, I agree with pixie_lou and lyfia's assessments. In the long run, I'd take storage/work area over an extra room to clean up any day. Nobody spends time in the side yards - choose the best backyard and then front yard/neighbors. And that's house #1. You will be happy when you see your electric bill that you are not facing west! Another pro for house #1. Just my thoughts. Hope this helps!

> Friends, I really need your help. I want to buy a car. More precisely not only myself. For the whole family. Have you considered hiring an architect? An architect can design and build a car you will love. He will interview your entire family to gather the requirements and will decide the proper car orientation. Your crazy aunt Sally wants a space on both of her sides for her favorite cats - no problem, she will love our new design. Space for your pet hamster - we will provide the wheel. 60 Gallon aquarium in the center for your pet shark - what a great idea. An architect can help you avoid costly car mistakes like: closets with no window, the gas chambers, wardrobe closet at the end of a bathroom. [Sorry could not help it] -Pizdabolka

It sounds like much of the decision is a matter of personal preference and I'm not sure anyone can help with that. I think a larger garage would generally be more attractive than a shed but again, that's personal preference. Certainly a partition wall can be added to the garage to provide a separate area for lawn equipment, etc. Price it both ways and see what fits your budget.