Remodeling Costs

Remodeling is a great way to improve the comfort, value and livability of your home. But, as many homeowners know, the financial and organizational hurdles associated with upgrading your home are serious. So, here are a few tips to help you keep your cool during your remodel.

Bathroom Remodel

When it comes to your return on investment (ROI), few renovations are better than a bathroom remodel. Prior to beginning your bathroom makeover, make sure to fully understand your budget’s limitations.

Bathroom Fixtures

Whether you’re looking for an upgraded sink, faucet, toilet or jetted tub, updating your fixtures is a great way to modernize the look of your bathroom. While prices vary widely, purchasing your fixtures through a contractor is an easy way to save on remodeling costs. (Most contractors have access to below-retail pricing).

Bathroom Flooring

Choosing flooring is an overwhelming process. Fortunately, your budget will help you decide which flooring option is right for you. While browsing potential flooring, it’s important to note that as the square footage of your bathroom grows, so will your costs. Before you decide on a particular flooring, be sure to know the exact square footage of your new bathroom space.

Bathroom Plumbing and Electrical

Is it necessary to move your toilet, cabinet and overhead lights? During your remodel, deciding to move plumbing or electrical systems will dramatically impact the cost of your project.

Kitchen Remodel

Kitchen updates are a fantastic way to improve the usability and value of your home. The cost of your update will depend on the size of your kitchen, quality of materials and layout of the room.

Kitchen Countertops

Within each category of countertop material, you’ll find huge price differences depending on the quality, availability and ease of installation. Fortunately, with the huge number of materials available, it’s much easier to shop within a budget.

Kitchen Cabinets

If you’re working with dated cabinets, there’s a good chance that your kitchen décor will go unnoticed. Fortunately, the cost of new cabinets will vary depending on the size and quality of the materials — which means that finding cabinets to fit your budget and style isn’t as hard as may think. If you don’t feel like undergoing a major install, refinishing or refacing your cabinets will allow you to update your kitchen’s look without the hefty price of a remodel.

Kitchen Appliances

Selecting the proper appliances for your new kitchen is a major decision. If your goal is to build a highly functional kitchen, you’re going to want appliances that are durable, user-friendly and easy to clean. If you have a smaller kitchen, you might want to think about installing built-in appliances that maximize your kitchen’s available space. Working within a limited budget? Freestanding appliances are typically less expensive and easier to install.

Basement Remodel

Remodeling your basement is a gigantic undertaking that will more than likely involve the installation of egress windows, electrical, HVAC and plumbing. Most basement remodels also include flooring, drywall and window covering installations. Fortunately, there are several price-sensitive factors that will help you cut costs during your basement remodel.

Square Footage

Unsurprisingly, the size of your basement will play a large role in determining how much your project will cost. The layout of your basement will also impact your budget — especially if your contractor is required to move or add electrical, HVAC or plumbing components. If your project is looking too big for your budget, consider only remodeling part of your basement to curb costs.

Materials

Unsurprisingly, the size of your basement plays the largest role in determining how much your project will cost. The layout of your basement will also impact your budget — especially if your contractor is required to move or add electrical, HVAC or plumbing components. If your project is looking too big for your budget, consider only remodeling part of your basement to curb costs.

Electrical

Most basement remodels involve adding or retrofitting existing electrical infrastructure to meet the needs of your new addition. Hiring a licensed electrician is the best way to ensure you have an electrical system that’s appropriate for your space.

Plumbing

If your basement design requires a bathroom, make sure to hire a licensed plumber to install the necessary elements. The more installation necessary in your bathroom, the higher your remodeling costs will be. If you plan to use your basement as a guest suite, consider adding a shower or bathtub. But, if your basement will be a living room or family space, a half bath is perfect.

Additions

While an addition of any size is a sobering commitment in terms of time and money, enlarging your home is a wonderful opportunity to increase the comfort and usability of your current space.

Architects

If you’re planning an extensive remodel, consider hiring an architect. Working with a professional will ensure that your addition is as practical as it is comfortable (and potentially profitable).

Will the Addition Add Value to Your Home?

Even if you don’t plan to move, keeping your home’s resale value in mind is important. If your addition significantly adds to the square footage of your home or includes several new rooms (bedrooms and bathrooms), your investment may pay off considerably.