Whether you’re planning a complete transformation or just refreshing a few rooms, remodeling your home is a major investment one that can greatly enhance your property’s value, comfort, and style. But how much should you expect to spend?
At BNC Contracting, we specialize in high-quality home remodeling services throughout Fort Lauderdale and surrounding South Florida areas. In this guide, we break down the average costs, what drives them, and how you can plan a remodel that fits your budget.
What Influences the Cost of a Home Remodel?
The cost to remodel a home can vary widely depending on several factors. Here’s what typically drives the price:
Size of the Home:
Larger homes require more materials, labor, and time. On average, you can expect:
- $20–$60 per square foot for minor updates
- $70–$250+ per square foot for full-scale renovations with premium materials
Scope of the Remodel:
Are you updating finishes or gutting walls and rearranging the floor plan? A full home renovation involving plumbing, electrical, and layout changes will cost more than surface-level improvements.
Type of Rooms Being Renovated:
Some rooms are simply more expensive to renovate than others:
- Kitchen and bathroom remodels are the most expensive due to plumbing, cabinetry, and appliances.
- Living rooms and bedrooms are typically more budget-friendly.
Material and Finish Quality:
Choices like quartz vs. laminate countertops or custom vs. prefabricated cabinets significantly affect costs. Fort Lauderdale homeowners often opt for high-end coastal styles, which include natural wood, hurricane-impact windows, and durable outdoor finishes all of which come at a premium.
Labor Costs:
Skilled labor in South Florida is in high demand, especially for specialized trades. Expect higher costs in Fort Lauderdale than in rural areas due to competition and local wages.
Permits and Building Codes:
In Fort Lauderdale, permits are required for most structural, plumbing, and electrical changes. Costs vary by project, but plan for $500 to $3,000 depending on the scope.
Location-Specific Factors:
South Florida’s unique climate (think: humidity, salt air, and hurricanes) may require additional waterproofing, ventilation, and weatherproof materials, all of which impact your budget.
Average Remodel Costs by Room:
Kitchen Remodel
- Average cost: $20,000–$60,000+
- High-end remodels: $75,000–$100,000+
- Includes: custom cabinets, stone countertops, premium appliances, lighting, and plumbing upgrades.
Bathroom Remodel
- Average cost: $10,000–$30,000
- Master bathroom upgrades can reach $40,000+
- Includes: tiling, vanities, walk-in showers, bathtubs, waterproofing.
Living Room Remodel
- Average cost: $5,000–$20,000
- Paint, flooring, lighting, entertainment wall, or open-concept transitions
Bedroom Remodel
- Average cost: $3,000–$15,000
- Includes: paint, flooring, closet upgrades, ceiling fans, or added lighting
Basement Renovation
- Average cost: $10,000–$50,000+
- May include waterproofing, insulation, flooring, HVAC, or turning it into a guest suite
Exterior & Landscaping
- Cost: $5,000–$100,000+
- Includes roofing, siding, decks, patios, driveways, fences, and pool areas
Tips to Save Money Without Cutting Corners
- Prioritize high-ROI areas like kitchens and bathrooms
- Do some tasks yourself (e.g., painting or demolition)
- Reuse and repurpose existing fixtures or cabinets
- Shop smart for materials and get bulk discounts or outlet deals
- Get multiple bids and compare contractors (but don’t go with the cheapest blindly)
- Use a fixed-price contract to avoid unexpected expenses
Creating a Smart Remodeling Budget
Here’s a simple step-by-step plan:
- Set your total budget limit
- Break it down by room or task
- Add a 15–20% contingency for surprises (especially in older homes)
- Track all costs using spreadsheets or budgeting apps
- Get a professional estimate as we offer free consultations
Return on Investment (ROI): Is It Worth It?
Some projects increase your home’s resale value more than others:
- Kitchen remodel: 70–80% ROI
- Bathroom remodel: 60–70% ROI
- Curb appeal (landscaping, paint, siding): 80–100% ROI
- Luxury upgrades: May look great but yield lower ROI
Final Thoughts: Plan Smart, Build Better
A home remodel is one of the most rewarding investments you can make but only if it’s planned and executed well.
At BNC Contracting, we bring decades of experience to every project, delivering quality craftsmanship and reliable service to homeowners across Fort Lauderdale and beyond. Whether you’re updating a kitchen or reimagining your entire home, we’re here to help.
