How We Price Renovation & Remodeling Projects

We price renovation and remodeling projects using a transparent cost-plus construction management model. This approach provides accurate pricing, full visibility into costs, and flexibility as design decisions are made.

Rather than providing a lump-sum estimate based on assumptions, we obtain actual bids from qualified subcontractors once the project scope and design are defined. Those bids are shared openly with the owner, ensuring pricing reflects real costs—not guesswork.

 

Design & Pre-Construction Services

All projects begin with design and pre-construction planning to define scope, avoid surprises, and produce buildable plans.

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Design Services

Design services are provided in-house and focus on efficient, buildable, permit-ready plans—not over-designed architectural sets that add cost without adding value.

Design Service Pricing

$1.10 - $3.50  per square foot for renovation projects

$2.00 - $4.00 per square foot for projects involving structural changes.

Design services may include:

Existing conditions modeling (as-built)

Floor plan and layout development

Kitchen and bathroom layouts

Electrical and lighting planning

Plumbing fixture coordination

Structural coordination

Permit-ready construction drawings

Design fees are credited toward construction when the project proceeds.

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Pre-Construction Planning

Before subcontractor bidding begins, projects move into a Pre-Construction Agreement.

Pre-Construction Fee: $2,500 – $4,000

Pre-construction services include:

Scope definition and constructability review

Trade walk-throughs and bid solicitation

Bid comparison and budget development

Preliminary schedule and logistics planning

Pre-construction fees are credited toward construction if the project moves forward.

 

Cost-Plus Construction Management

The owner pays the actual cost of subcontractors, materials, and project-related expenses. All costs are presented transparently and reviewed throughout the project.

General Contractor Fee
We apply a competitive general contractor fee, typically ranging from 18% to 22%, depending on project size, complexity, and coordination requirements.

The general contractor fee includes:

Project management and scheduling

Trade coordination and on-site supervision

Permitting and inspection coordination

Insurance and risk management

Quality control and warranty oversight

 

How This Aligns With Renovation Investment

Because pricing is based on real bids and defined scope, final project costs align closely with the Renovation Investment ranges shown on our website. This approach allows homeowners to make informed decisions and avoid unexpected cost escalations.

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Why This Pricing Model Works

Lower upfront design cost to get projects started

Real pricing based on subcontractor bids

No padded estimates or hidden markups

Full transparency throughout construction

Owner control over scope and selections

Competitive general contractor fees

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