Remodel Price Estimate

Why is everyone so vague on pricing done over the phone?

How much will it cost to do X, or how much per square foot (SF) or linear foot (LF)to install Y… are the two most frequent questions asked during the initial phone call.

Most legitimate remodeling and renovations contractors don’t even think in terms of SF or LF pricing, with the exception of maybe a few individual line items. Unlike new construction, every remodeling and renovation project has a different starting point as far as what it is required to be done. The short answer to those questions is that most contractors including us generally have to look at the job first and then crunch a lot of numbers to get you an accurate and fair price for the work.

One quick example is installing ceramic tile – simple right? Well does the floor sag, is it bouncy, is it level, are there ridges, is it in an area with lots of water, what is the condition of the subflooring – does it need to be replaced? Those are all items that have to be addressed even before you consider what type of membrane or backer-board you will need to utilize with the tile. Then we get to the tile itself, what size is it, would you like it laid in a specific pattern, is it ceramic tile or is it really stone, etc…

The truth about “Average Prices” found on TV, Magazines and the web.

First – what does “average” mean? Does it include fly-by-night contractors, one man companies, or large regional and national corporations. Does it include work completed in a small town with a minimal cost of living and cost to do business, or larger cities with ritzy neighborhoods that generally have higher costs all around. Does it include permits and other “additional” costs or “change orders” that should have already been included in the original contract?

Some TV shows, magazines, and websites will cherry pick the data they wish to highlight. If they are promoting how much money you can save, they will generally go with the higher price point they can use. On the flip side, if they are promoting an update to your house that is affordable, they may go with the lowest price points they can find.

One good resource that has been available for many years is Remodeling Magazine’s Cost-Vs-Value Report. It standardizes & provides nationwide, regional & city specific data on 30 common mid-range & upscale remodeling projects. It only polls legitimate remodeling firms that vary from the one-man shows up to the larger national firms. They also poll experienced Real Estate agents & appraisers to find out how much of the cost for a project is recouped if sold that year.

Quick Pricing Guide

In order to help you see if your budget is realistic, or to help you start developing a budget we have provided the following pricing guide. It includes only a general price range for standard to mid range projects that we have completed in the Northern Alabama area based on an “average” sized room in an older house. If you are looking at using more upscale fixtures, have a really odd shaped room or layout, plan on opening up or moving walls or fixtures around, the prices can exceed what is listed below. If the prices listed are out of your budget range, don’t despair – we might still be able to help you by changing materials, finding a different option that may work out better for you, or even working on the project in stages.

Remodel Pricing Guide

“The bitterness of poor quality lingers long after the sweetness of the cheap price is forgotten” – Author Unknown