Is it more affordable to gut a house than build a new home?

• <div><p>Whether it’s more affordable to gut a house than build a new one depends on the markets where you'd be buying and selling. However, it’s usually less expensive to renovate a home than to build new construction. </p><p>Most homeowners pay between <b>$100,000 and $200,000</b> for demolition and remodeling costs, whereas the average <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-it-cost-build-house.htm">cost to build a new home</a> is between <b>$139,000 and $531,300</b>. </p></div>

How do I save money on basement remodeling costs?

• <div><p>Since DIYing a basement remodel isn't typically advised, there are some ways that you can still save money on this project without putting yourself in danger. Some <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/budget-basement-remodel.htm">ways to save money on a basement remodel</a> include:</p><ul><li><p>Painting walls yourself versus including in the cost of the remodel </p></li><li><p>Installing light fixtures yourself</p></li><li><p>Choosing prefabricated fixtures, like cabinets, over custom ones</p></li><li><p>Choosing a budget-friendly flooring option, like laminate or vinyl flooring, and add rugs where necessary</p></li></ul><p></p></div>

Should you pay a contractor up front?

• <div><p>In most cases, a contractor will ask you for a deposit that is a percentage of the total cost of your job, but you should never pay in full before work has begun. The <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-should-i-pay-general-contractor-prior-starting-job.htm">up-front cost</a> could be as much as 50%, or you might give a contractor as little as 10% up front. Discuss payment terms with your contractor before they begin the job to avoid surprises.</p></div>

Get matched with top basement remodelers in Mechanicsville, IA

Q: Is it more affordable to gut a house than build a new home?

• <div><p>Whether it&rsquo;s more affordable to gut a house than build a new one depends on the markets where you'd be buying and selling. However, it&rsquo;s usually less expensive to renovate a home than to build new construction. </p><p>Most homeowners pay between <b>$100,000 and $200,000</b> for demolition and remodeling costs, whereas the average <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-it-cost-build-house.htm">cost to build a new home</a> is between <b>$139,000 and $531,300</b>. </p></div>

Q: What are the benefits of remodeling a basement?

• <div><p>Renovation enhances functionality, increases home value, and can add new space for personal or family needs. It typically modernizes older unfinished basements for new uses.</p></div>

Q: How do I choose the right materials for finishing my basement walls?

• <div><p>When choosing materials for finishing basement walls, consider factors such as moisture resistance, durability, and fire resistance. Opt for materials specifically designed for basement environments, like moisture-resistant drywall or cement board. Insulation with vapor barriers can help regulate temperature and prevent condensation. Consider using mold-resistant paints or coatings. </p><p>Research and consult with experts to select materials that are suitable for your specific basement conditions and intended use. Prioritize quality and compatibility to achieve long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing results.</p></div>

There are 4 highly-rated local basement remodelers.

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Verified Reviews for Basement Remodel pros in Mechanicsville, IA

*The Angi rating for Basement Remodel companies in Mechanicsville, IA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Basement Remodel needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Basement Remodel companies in Mechanicsville, IA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Basement Remodel needs.

Last update on October 28, 2025

Reviewed in September 2024
HUGE shout out to Mad City.....this job on my bathroom was great, they were professional and prompt. Listened to concerns and needs, product was very well made and also has the wonderful lifetime warranty. If i was to have something else remodeled I would call them again, BIG thanks to Brian...
Mad City Windows & Baths
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Reviewed in April 2023
We hired Jim Heskje Painting to paint the walls and trim in our basement remodel project. They did a great job. The team left the house every day with tools picked up and the place looking neat. They showed up when they said they would and we’re always on time. We were very pleased with Jim...
Jim Heskje Painting Specialist Cedar Rapids
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Reviewed in May 2022
Able to repair ceiling in basement in just under one day. Included tear down, installing, tape, mud, and great job at cleaning.
H & K Drywall Finishing, LLC
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Reviewed in February 2020
I had 14 windows replaced including a 10 foot picture window, 4 exterior doors with storm doors and Seth did an excellent job. He was courteous, professional and cleaned up. I also had a bathroom remodel that John was the installer and he also did a fantastic job with the accolades as Seth. I...
Elite Concepts, LLC
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Reviewed in December 2016
No more moisture in basement
MidAmerica Basement Systems
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Reviewed in August 2016
The work that Drew Davis and his crew of Better Home Remodelers did, surpassed my expectations. Better Home Remodelers transformed the bathroom by their detailed and beautiful work. Even to this day, I still notice exacting touches they did that now sets my bathroom apart from what I see in most...
Better Home Remodelers, LLC
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Reviewed in January 2016
I called Done Done to help us get started on a huge remodel. Steve came out and gave us some really good advice and was very helpful. We now know what we need to do to get the ball rolling and will definitely be calling them in the spring when we are ready to get started. Thanks!
Done Done Services
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Reviewed in June 2014
Dan completed all the drywall work in a basement remodel -- approximately 1,000 sq ft. He offered suggestions for decreasing sound transfer, changed his schedule so we could do some work ourselves prior to his installation of the drywall, and then completed his work promptly and cleanly. He...
Holland Drywall
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Reviewed in November 2013
This is the second bathroom that Lee Construction has remodeled for us. Doug Lee's son, Dustin, took the lead in giving us our estimates and actually did all the work on this bathroom himself. He removed the old tub surround, put in a new tub, and tiled around the tub almost all the way to the...
DOUG LEE CONSTRUCTION
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Reviewed in December 2012
We asked Premier Kitchen and Bath to remodel our kitchen and bathrooms while we were gone from the house during the summer. We selected the materials before we left for the summer, and returned to find the remodeling job complete. The design and work was exceptional. They came in on time and on...
PREMIER KITCHEN AND BATH
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Get matched with top basement remodelers in Mechanicsville, IA

There are 4 highly-rated local basement remodelers.

Need a pro for your basement remodel project in Mechanicsville, IA?

Basement Remodeling

Handyman for Multiple Small Project Service

Bathroom Remodeling

Verified Reviews for Basement Remodel pros in Mechanicsville, IA

Find Basement remodelers in Mechanicsville

PSD Home improvement

PSD Home improvement

Arnold Home Services

Arnold Home Services

Macnora Construction

Macnora Construction

Ed's Handiman

Ed's Handiman

Richards Renovations

Richards Renovations

All Seasons Construction

All Seasons Construction

Next Level Construction

Next Level Construction

Heritage Flooring Concepts

Heritage Flooring Concepts

Potts Master Contractors

Potts Master Contractors

Steggall Construction

Steggall Construction

The Mechanicsville, IA homeowners’ guide to basement remodels

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