You Want How Much?

How much will my project cost? It’s the most common question posed by homeowners contemplating a Renovation. It’s also one of the most difficult to answer. Here are a few tips for helping your contractor, architect or renovation consultant put together the most accurate numbers possible early on in the project timeline:

• Keep a file of floor finishes, plumbing fixtures, light fixtures, cabinetry styles, counter tops and appliances that you would like to incorporate into your project.
• Make a list of all of the rooms involved in your Renovation Project and assign floor finishes, wall finishes, light fixtures, and any special items that will be in that room. For example: The Den will have carpet, wood paneling, recessed can lights and built-in book shelves on two walls.
• Familiarize yourself with available products. Look at carpet, tile, counter tops and appliances in showrooms and magazines. This will help you intelligently answer questions such as: What type of carpet do you prefer (berber, loop, pile, etc.)? What weight carpet pad do you want? Do you prefer ceramic, porcelain, glass or natural stone tile? and What counter top material is most appropriate for the type of cooking that you do?

The point is that anyone can throw out a “budget number” for your Renovation of $100 per square foot. But more often than not, it is the quality of the finishes, the fixtures, the cabinetry, the appliances and the windows and doors that will determine if your project costs $75 per square foot or $225 per square foot.