wrote in message

We would like to improve the basement for our own use and for future
resale value. My understanding is that a full basement remodel
typically returns less than 50% of cost. I don't expect 100% return,
but I don't want to spend piles of money that we can't posibly get
back at resale.

Your list sounds reasonable and on a track to do it "right". Are you
selling your house in six months? Six years? 16 years?

Forge the ROI if you plan to be there for a while and consider the enhanced
use for your family. There is a value to that aside from money.