Addition & Remodel Cost Guides

The whine of power saws on that new addition or remodeling project can signal the exciting sound of your dreams taking shape or they can conjure visions of “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre.” Fear is understandable. These major construction projects can be scary and expensive. But doing homework on the front end can help you develop a firm budget, a clear vision and a more fruitful relationship with your contractors. It might also lessen the fear factor. Start with the biggest, broadest questions - What do you hope to accomplish with the project and how much do you have to spend? Then your contractors can help you work your way to the smaller questions about specific materials, etc. That kind of strategic planning should bring clarity to the project, which could be the most valuable asset you bring to the table.

Size and Complexity of the Addition or Remodel

Some cost factors here are obvious, such as the size of a porch or extra room. But the nature of each project carries levels of complexity that might not be immediately apparent. Early on, you'll want to get a handle on how many general contractors, electricians, plumbers, carpenters or decorators you'll need to complete the project. You'll also want to consider the cost of permits and inspections. Then, budget at least some extra cushion for the unexpected. An example: Perhaps you have an older home, and when your contractors tear up your carpet, they discover structural problems with the flooring or maybe the plumbers find old pipes that need to be replaced. Hope for the best, but plan for at least a bit of the worst.   Continue Reading
  • Remodel a Bathroom Costs
    Most homeowners spent between:
    $5,647 - $12,928
    Average cost:
    $9,274
    Low cost:
    $2,870
     
    High cost:
    $20,000
  • Remodel a Kitchen Costs
    Most homeowners spent between:
    $11,194 - $28,646
    Average cost:
    $19,920
    Low cost:
    $5,000
     
    High cost:
    $45,000
  • Remodel a Basement Costs
    Most homeowners spent between:
    $10,606 - $26,943
    Average cost:
    $18,503
    Low cost:
    $5,000
     
    High cost:
    $40,000

Select your Addition & Remodel project

Additions & Remodels
Remodel a Bathroom
(10,083 projects)
Average National Cost:
$9,274
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Additions & Remodels
Remodel a Kitchen
(3,522 projects)
Average National Cost:
$19,920
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Additions & Remodels
Remodel a Basement
(3,006 projects)
Average National Cost:
$18,503
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Additions & Remodels
Build an Addition
(2,669 projects)
Average National Cost:
$40,960
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Additions & Remodels
Remodel Multiple Rooms
(2,325 projects)
Average National Cost:
$35,788
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Additions & Remodels
Perform Home Renovations and Repairs
(1,089 projects)
Average National Cost:
$9,552
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Additions & Remodels
Build a Patio Enclosure
(985 projects)
Average National Cost:
$15,524
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Additions & Remodels
Build a Garage
(901 projects)
Average National Cost:
$24,448
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Additions & Remodels
Install Carpentry Framing
(799 projects)
Average National Cost:
$3,207
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Additions & Remodels
Demo an Interior
(675 projects)
Average National Cost:
$2,935
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Additions & Remodels
Excavate Land
(357 projects)
Average National Cost:
$2,566
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Additions & Remodels
Build a Closet
(326 projects)
Average National Cost:
$1,869
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Additions & Remodels
Remodel a Garage
(320 projects)
Average National Cost:
$10,602
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Additions & Remodels
Install a Foundation
(308 projects)
Average National Cost:
$7,665
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Additions & Remodels
Build a Barn, Shed or Playhouse
(269 projects)
Average National Cost:
$2,949
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Additions & Remodels
Remodel for Disability Accommodation
(150 projects)
Average National Cost:
$6,143
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Additions & Remodels
Clear Land or Prepare a Construction Site
(148 projects)
Average National Cost:
$2,653
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Additions & Remodels
Build a Carport
(89 projects)
Average National Cost:
$6,044
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Additions & Remodels
Build an Outdoor Kitchen
(65 projects)
Average National Cost:
$6,270
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Additions & Remodels
Install Steel Beams
(41 projects)
Average National Cost:
$2,205
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Additions & Remodels
Get a Building Permit
(30 projects)
Average National Cost:
$853
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Additions & Remodels
Hire a Construction Manager
(19 projects)
Average National Cost:
$7,209
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Workers for an Addition or Remodel

Depending on how your size-and-complexity plans work out, you may find you need one general contractor, or you may find you need a team of specialized professionals. For example, if you are doing a remodel, you may want to start with consulting an interior decorator. But, as with hiring any home professionals, you want to be cautious about whom you choose. For instance, watch out for decorators who offer free services - these can actually be a manufacturer's representative pushing certain products. Besides narrowing your options, you may pay more in the long run. A flat-fee decorator might look like a great bargain on the outset, but make sure that this person won't insist on acting as your exclusive buying agent. You don't want decorators who will steer you toward marked-up products that carry larger commissions for them. Always check prices you get from your decorator against retail.
You may also need to hire people that you didn't even think about - such as a structural engineer. The structural engineer inspects the foundation, infrastructure, curtain wall, insulation and building envelope. Through careful inspection and comparison to the approved building plans, the engineer can ensure that the actual building meets the drawings provided and that any necessary corrections are made. While this might be an extra cost that you didn’t initially anticipate, the safety of your structure is paramount, and this simple exercise can save you money and legal hassles down the road.

Budget for an Addition or Remodel

Once you have your plans in place, remember that you can always make changes that modify your budget as you go. For example, maybe get a mid grade carpet instead of the highest grade available. Wait for a sale to purchase items like paint, appliances or new windows. Use coupons. Look for rebates. If you have the time, plan your remodel or addition as early as possible and start purchasing items you know you'll need early. This way you are incurring a slight cost over time and not a large cost all at once. You may also be able to afford a higher end product that you would normally not be able to afford if you tried to purchase everything at one time.

Addition Exteriors

Because the interior for an addition can be so involved, it’s easy to forget or discount the effort needed to make the exterior shine. You will need to consider the siding and roofing materials you would like to use to finish this space. And you might weigh the quality of exterior materials against their visibility. Also in the cost of the addition, be careful to factor in the permits needed and the work needed to prepare the foundation.

The Value of Your Remodel or Addition

Yes, these big projects can be daunting undertakings. But driving the project’s moment must be your goal to reap the benefits once it’s done. You will have a more beautiful and functional home. And if you execute you project strategically, you'll find that it’s worth considerably more than when you started. Kind of makes all the sawdust and fear worth it.

Share your cost experience

Help others plan and budget for their projects

patricia gray 7 days ago
Can anyone recommend a modular builder/designer for a bedroom addition ( less than 300 sq.ft.) to add onto a ground floor of an existing home. Home is located in the historic district of Wilmington. Time and budget are critical for this project. Thanks

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