Updated for 2024

Construction Cost Guide: What Things Really Cost

Stop guessing. Stop getting ripped off. See what real homeowners paid for real projects. Knowledge is your best defense against overcharging.

Why Most People Overpay for Construction

When you don't know what something should cost, you're at the mercy of whoever is giving you the quote. Some contractors price fairly. Others see an uninformed homeowner and smell opportunity.

The difference between an informed buyer and an uninformed one? Often 20-40% on the final bill. That's thousands or tens of thousands of dollars.

"An educated buyer is a protected buyer. Know the numbers before you negotiate."

Real Costs From Real Projects

Based on thousands of completed projects across the United States. Your location may vary.

Kitchen Remodel

$15,000 - $150,000+
Scope Price Range What's Included
Minor Refresh $15,000 - $30,000
Budget-friendly update
Cabinet refacing, new countertops, updated hardware, paint, new faucet
Mid-Range Remodel $40,000 - $75,000
Most popular option
New cabinets, quartz counters, tile backsplash, new appliances, flooring, lighting
High-End Renovation $80,000 - $150,000+
Premium finishes
Custom cabinets, premium appliances, layout changes, structural work, designer finishes

Bathroom Renovation

$8,000 - $60,000+
Scope Price Range What's Included
Half Bath Update $5,000 - $15,000
Powder room
New vanity, toilet, faucet, lighting, paint, mirror
Full Bath Remodel $20,000 - $40,000
Standard renovation
New tub/shower, tile, vanity, toilet, flooring, fixtures, ventilation
Master Bath Luxury $45,000 - $80,000+
Spa-like experience
Walk-in shower, freestanding tub, double vanity, heated floors, custom tile

Home Additions

$150 - $400+ per sq ft
Type Price Range Notes
Sunroom / 3-Season $150 - $250/sq ft Simpler HVAC needs, lots of windows, foundation work varies
Living Space Addition $200 - $350/sq ft Full climate control, matches existing home, electrical/plumbing
Second Story $300 - $500/sq ft Structural engineering, temporary relocation often needed

Common Individual Items

Quick reference
Item Material + Labor Notes
New Roof (Asphalt) $8,000 - $15,000 2,000 sq ft home, includes tear-off
HVAC System $5,000 - $12,000 Central AC + furnace, ductwork extra if needed
Hardwood Flooring $8 - $15/sq ft Installed, includes materials
Interior Paint (Whole House) $3,000 - $8,000 2,000 sq ft home, walls and ceilings
New Windows (Each) $400 - $1,200 Standard size, double-hung, installed

What Makes Your Project Cost More (or Less)

Understanding these factors helps you budget realistically and negotiate intelligently.

Location

Costs in San Francisco or NYC can be 2-3x higher than rural areas. Labor rates, permits, and even materials vary dramatically by region.

Timing

Spring and summer are peak season. Contractors are busiest and prices are highest. Winter projects often cost 10-20% less.

Scope Creep

Changing your mind mid-project is expensive. Every change order adds cost. Finalize your design BEFORE work begins.

Material Selection

A $40/sq ft countertop vs $150/sq ft adds up fast. Know where to splurge and where to save.

Hidden Conditions

Old homes hide surprises: asbestos, outdated wiring, water damage. Always budget 10-20% for contingencies.

Permit Costs

Some projects need permits. Plan for $500-$3,000+ depending on scope and location. Never skip required permits.

Smart Ways to Save Without Sacrificing Quality

Cut costs strategically, not recklessly.

Get Multiple Bids

Never accept the first quote. 3-5 bids reveal the true market price and give you negotiating power.

Save 15-25%

Time It Right

Schedule for slow season (late fall, winter). Contractors are hungrier and more flexible on price.

Save 10-20%

Be Your Own PM

If you have time and organization skills, coordinating subs yourself saves the GC markup.

Save 15-30%

Demo & Haul Yourself

Demolition is labor-intensive but not technical. Do it yourself and rent a dumpster.

Save $2,000-5,000
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Knowledge Is Power. Use It.

You now know more about construction costs than 90% of homeowners. That knowledge protects you. It gives you confidence in negotiations. It helps you spot unfair quotes. Now combine that knowledge with Bidroom's AI matching to get verified contractors competing for your business with fair, transparent bids.

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