If you’re exploring the cost to renovate an entire house, understanding the financial aspects upfront is crucial. Renovations can range significantly based on the scope and quality of materials used. Here’s a quick snapshot:
Whole home renovation involves numerous variables, each adding complexity and cost. From simple cosmetic updates to comprehensive overhauls including structural changes, the extent of your renovation directly influences the budget.
When planning financially for a renovation, consider both the obvious costs like materials and labor, and the hidden ones such as permits and unexpected repairs. Establishing a well-thought-out budget is essential to prevent cost overruns and ensure your renovation meets both your aesthetic and financial expectations.

Renovating your home can be a rewarding but complex process, influenced by various factors that affect the overall cost. Let’s break down what you can expect financially when you decide to undertake a full home renovation.
The size of your home plays a crucial role in determining the cost to renovate the entire house. Typically, you can expect to spend anywhere from $10 to $60 per square foot depending on the nature of the renovations. Simple updates may lean towards the lower end, while extensive remodels with high-end finishes can reach or exceed the higher range.
Renovations can generally be categorized into three types:
Considering ROI is crucial, especially if you plan to sell your home in the future. Projects like replacing garage doors or minor kitchen remodels can offer a return of up to 99% of your investment, making them financially sensible choices. Conversely, adding a luxury master suite might offer a lower ROI but could be the right choice for your lifestyle and long-term plans in the home.
A gut renovation, where you strip the house down to its structural elements and rebuild, can be the most costly. This type of renovation often involves new plumbing, electrical systems, HVAC, and possibly structural changes. Costs can range from $60 to $150 per square foot. It’s a significant investment but necessary for homes with severe structural issues or outdated systems.
Focusing on the interior, costs can vary widely based on the extent of the work. Removing and replacing old flooring, updating electrical fixtures, and repainting walls are typically less expensive than moving walls or changing the overall layout of the house. Interior renovations can cost anywhere from $1,063 to $4,905 on average, but extensive remodels might reach or exceed $20,000.
In summary, understanding the cost to renovate an entire house involves considering the size of your home, the scale of renovations, and the quality of materials used. It’s also important to think about the potential ROI of your renovations, especially if you plan to sell in the future. Whether you opt for a high-end, midrange, or low-end renovation, each has its own set of costs and benefits that should align with your overall goals and budget.
When planning a whole home renovation, several key factors play a crucial role in determining the overall costs. Understanding these can help you better prepare and budget for your project.
Labor is often one of the most significant expenses in any home renovation project. Rates can vary widely depending on the region, the complexity of the work, and the expertise of the contractors involved. Metropolitan areas generally have higher labor costs compared to rural locations. For example, cities like New York and San Francisco might charge more due to the higher cost of living and the specialized skills required for certain renovations.
The choice of materials can drastically affect your renovation budget. Prices for wood, steel, concrete, and other construction materials can fluctuate based on market conditions and regional availability. Opting for high-end finishes like granite countertops or custom cabinetry will also drive up costs. It’s important to choose materials that balance cost, durability, and aesthetics to meet your renovation goals.
Permits are essential for ensuring that your renovation complies with local building codes and regulations. The cost and requirements for permits can vary by location and the scope of your project. Major structural changes, like adding extensions or knocking down walls, typically require more permits, which can increase costs. Always check with your local building authority to understand the necessary permits for your renovation.
Older homes may require more extensive renovations to address structural issues, outdated plumbing, or electrical systems. As mentioned earlier, renovating a 100-year-old house can uncover unexpected challenges like old wiring or asbestos, leading to higher costs. It’s crucial to have a thorough inspection done before purchasing or renovating an older home to estimate potential renovation expenses accurately.
Altering the floor plan of your home can be costly, especially if it involves structural changes such as removing load-bearing walls or adding new rooms. These changes often require hiring architects or structural engineers to ensure the safety and feasibility of the renovations, adding to the overall cost.
As highlighted earlier, your home’s location significantly impacts renovation costs. Labor and material costs vary depending on whether you live in a city or a rural area. Additionally, some regions have stricter building codes that can affect the type of materials used and the overall design of the renovation.
Understanding these key factors will help you navigate the complexities of home renovation and aid in managing your budget effectively. By considering these elements, you can plan a renovation that meets your needs while staying within your financial limits.
When considering the cost to renovate an entire house, it’s helpful to break down expenses by individual rooms and structural elements. This approach allows for a detailed understanding of where your budget will be allocated and helps in making informed decisions on where to splurge and where to save.
The kitchen is often referred to as the heart of the home, and it’s also one of the most expensive areas to renovate due to the complexity and variety of work involved.
Bathrooms, while typically smaller, can be tricky due to plumbing and the need for durable, moisture-resistant materials.
These areas often require less technical work than kitchens and bathrooms, focusing more on aesthetics and comfort.
These improvements are crucial as they impact the integrity and energy efficiency of your home.
Each room and structural component presents unique challenges and costs. By understanding these details, you can better allocate your budget to match your renovation goals and priorities. As we move into discussing how to finance these renovations, keep these cost breakdowns in mind to plan your funding strategy effectively.
Financing a whole home renovation can be daunting, but understanding your options can help you make the best decision for your financial situation. Here are some common ways homeowners fund their renovations:
A home equity loan gives you a lump sum based on the equity you have in your home. This is a great option if you know the exact cost to renovate entire house and need all the money at once. The interest rates are usually fixed, making budgeting easier.
A HELOC works like a credit card but with your home as collateral. It offers flexibility since you can draw money as needed during your renovation. This is ideal if your project costs may vary over time. The interest rates on HELOCs are variable.
With a cash-out refinance, you refinance your home for more than you owe and take the difference in cash. This can be a good choice if current mortgage rates are lower than your existing one. However, it’s important to consider the closing costs involved.
A home improvement loan is not secured by your home, which might be appealing if you don’t want to use your house as collateral. These loans can be easier to obtain but often come with higher interest rates than those secured by home equity.
Each of these options has its pros and cons. For example, home equity loans and HELOCs often have lower interest rates because they are secured by your home, but they also carry the risk of foreclosure if you can’t make the payments. On the other hand, home improvement loans pose no such risk to your home, but might come with higher rates.
Choosing the right financing option depends on your financial situation, how much you need to borrow, and your comfort level with risk. It’s wise to compare offers from several lenders to find the best rates and terms.
As you consider these options, also think about the long-term impact on your finances and home equity. Properly financing your renovation can not only help you achieve your dream home but also manage your budget effectively. Now, let’s explore how you can save money on your home renovation.
Renovating your entire house can be a hefty financial undertaking. However, there are strategic ways to reduce costs without compromising on quality. Here’s how you can save money during your home renovation:
Engaging in DIY projects can significantly cut costs, especially for tasks like painting, simple carpentry, or basic landscaping. These are low-risk but high-impact tasks that can transform spaces without needing professional skills. However, remember to avoid DIY for complex systems like plumbing or electrical work, which require professional expertise to ensure safety and compliance with local codes.
Obtaining multiple contractor quotes is crucial. Aim to get at least three bids from different contractors to compare prices and scope of work. This not only gives you a better understanding of the prevailing rates but also leverages competitive pricing, helping you negotiate better terms. Ensure that these quotes are detailed so you can see exactly what you are paying for.
Choosing budget-friendly materials can also help manage costs effectively. For instance, opting for laminate countertops instead of granite or quartz can offer a similar aesthetic at a significantly lower price. Similarly, consider looking for sales or discontinued models when purchasing fixtures and appliances. These items are often discounted but still in great condition.
Investigate potential federal grants available for home renovations. Some government programs offer financial assistance for energy-efficient upgrades or renovations that improve home safety. These grants can reduce your out-of-pocket expenses and make certain costly upgrades more attainable.
By implementing these strategies, you can make the cost to renovate an entire house more manageable. Each option not only offers a way to save money but also helps you maintain control over your renovation budget. Moving forward, let’s look into some frequently asked questions about whole home renovations to clarify any further concerns you might have.
Deciding whether to remodel or build new often depends on several factors including the condition of the existing home, the extent of required renovations, and local building costs. Generally, remodeling can be less expensive than building anew, especially if the structure and systems of your current home are in good condition. Renovating avoids the higher costs associated with laying a new foundation and constructing a new frame. However, if the existing home requires extensive repairs or updates, the cost can quickly approach or even exceed that of building a new home.
When considering renovations, it’s beneficial to know which projects might give you the best bang for your buck. Replacing garage doors, roofs, and windows, as well as updating siding, tend to yield the highest Return on Investment (ROI), with garage door replacements leading at up to 99%. Kitchen and bathroom remodels follow closely, offering significant value increase to your home. These areas often serve as key decision points for potential buyers and can dramatically increase a home’s marketability and value.
The timeline for a whole house renovation can vary widely based on the scope of the project, availability of materials, and the efficiency of your contractors. Typically, a full home renovation can take anywhere from two to eight months. This duration can extend due to unforeseen delays such as issues with material shipments, challenges in obtaining necessary permits, or unexpected structural problems discovered during the renovation process. For extensive renovations, especially those involving structural changes or after significant damage like a fire or flood, the timeline can extend further, often requiring additional approval and inspections from insurance providers or local authorities.
By understanding these aspects, you can better plan and execute your renovation project, ensuring that it aligns with your budget and timeline expectations while maximizing potential returns on your investment. Moving forward, let’s explore the specific costs associated with different types of room renovations.
At Norman Builders, we understand that renovating your entire home is not just about addressing structural needs or updating styles; it’s about crafting a space that perfectly reflects your personality and lifestyle. That’s why we focus on delivering personalized service and exceptional craftsmanship in every project we undertake.
We believe that every renovation project is as unique as the homeowner. From the initial consultation to the final walkthrough, our approach is tailored to meet your specific desires and requirements. Our team takes the time to listen to your vision and goals for the renovation, ensuring that every detail aligns with your expectations. This personalized service helps in creating a seamless and enjoyable renovation experience, fostering a trusting relationship that lasts beyond the completion of your project.
Our commitment to craftsmanship is evident in the meticulous attention to detail and the use of high-quality materials throughout each phase of the renovation. Our skilled professionals are passionate about their craft, bringing years of experience and expertise to ensure that every aspect of your renovation is executed to the highest standard. Whether it’s a complex gut renovation or a simple interior update, our team is dedicated to delivering a finished product that not only meets but exceeds your expectations.
Choosing Norman Builders means partnering with a team that is committed to quality and satisfaction. We understand that a whole home renovation is a significant investment, and we are dedicated to ensuring that your investment adds substantial value and enjoyment to your home. Our proven track record of transforming homes into beautiful, functional spaces makes us a trusted choice for homeowners looking to renovate.
We invite you to explore our whole house renovations services and discover how we can transform your current house into your dream home. With Norman Builders, your vision is our blueprint, and together, we can create a living space that you and your family will cherish for years to come.
By entrusting us with your cost to renovate entire house, you’re not just renovating your home; you’re also building a lasting relationship with a team that values integrity, quality, and customer satisfaction above all else. Let us help you bring your home renovation dreams to life with our blend of creativity, precision, and efficiency.

We specialize in high-quality home construction and remodeling services, delivering exceptional craftsmanship tailored to meet your vision and needs. Whether you’re planning a renovation, new construction, or a custom remodel, our experienced team is committed to exceeding expectations with precision, attention to detail, and reliable service.
Our service area includes the Merrimack Valley, North Shore, Seacoast, and Southern NH Areas. We take pride in the quality of our workmanship and our prompt professionalism.
Contact us today to bring your project to life!