Budget basics: Remodeling house costs

by Cathy Roberts 04/17/2023

two people examining remodeling blueprints person in black and white checkered shirt holding the blueprint

If you’re planning a home renovation, the first thing you should do is draw up a budget for remodeling. House cost can vary depending on the project, but remodeling costs can be estimated accurately as long as you include all the major factors.

Price per square foot, electrical or plumbing work, load bearing walls - all of these things play a part in your total remodeling cost. So, how can you figure out an estimate?

Cost of completely renovating a house

A full renovation may cost you anywhere from $10,000 to $500,000 - though $500,000 tends to be for larger and luxury properties. Depending upon the construction characteristics, price changes can be drastic. Final costs are usually dependent on the structural repair or mechanical work done in the home, as well as the home’s condition, location and materials used. 

Remodeling projects will generally be classified in three different categories: high-end, medium-range and lower end depending on the type of design. The difference between these three categories is primarily the building materials used. However, major structural changes can also affect remodeling cost.

Home remodel cost by room type

Many homeowners might prefer to remodel a single room rather than the entire home. These upgrades can yield higher return on investment by boosting the resale value of your home. 

Bathroom and kitchen remodels are the most common. The cost for each varies greatly on the materials and square footage. Also, if you include an entirely new set of appliances in your remodel, it will also affect the cost. 

Certain features and styles come with a higher price tag, too. For example, farmhouse style sinks and butcher block countertops are considered high-end renovation items.

Additional costs and considerations

It’s important to acknowledge the possibility of unexpected expenses during a home renovation project. Increased labor costs due to delays and last-minute building material changes are just a couple of examples.

Also, you may discover a more serious structural issue once you begin a cosmetic remodel. Structural repairs and remodels will increase your timeline and stretch your budget, so it’s important to have a thorough understanding of your project before you get started.

The best way to get an accurate estimate for the cost of your remodel is to shop contractors for a quote. The more preparation you can do, the more successful and affordable your project will be.


About the Author
Author

Cathy Roberts

Trusted Advisor, Friend, and Neighbor

With 20 years’ experience in real estate and mortgage lending, along with deep roots in Franklin County, Cathy is the real estate expert with both local knowledge and a global network at her finger tips. Cathy connects with her clients, actively and respectfully listening to what their needs are, and delivers results for them, time and again.

Cathy understands the complexity of the lending side of real estate transactions, and brings in-depth knowledge to both buyers and sellers. Cathy is also the recipient of the coveted 10 Best Real Estate Agent for Client Satisfaction two years in a row in Massachusetts.

Cathy covers Franklin and Hampshire counties in the Pioneer Valley of western Massachusetts. Whether you're in the research phase at the beginning of your real estate search or you know exactly what you're looking for, you'll benefit from having a real estate professional by your side. Cathy would be honored to put her real estate experience to work for you.