Get matched with top basement remodelers in Manistee, MI

Q: Is it normal for a contractor to ask for a down payment, and how much should you pay up front?

• <div><p>It is common for a contractor to ask for a down payment before starting a project, especially for jobs that require purchasing materials and equipment or hiring a crew. The deposit amount can range from 10% to 50% of the total job cost. While a request for up to 50% is not unusual, a contractor should not ask for more than that, and you should never pay for a project in full before the work has begun. To protect yourself, always discuss payment terms before starting and have a written contract that outlines the project timeline and expectations. Additionally, be sure to hire reputable contractors and check their licensing and insurance before the project begins.</p></div>

Q: How hard is it to add a basement to an existing house?

• <div><p>The difficulty of adding a basement to an existing house can vary depending on the house&rsquo;s location, the size of the basement, and the type and condition of the existing foundation. Adding a basement is a job best handled by the pros, so you&rsquo;ll need to enlist professional help for this project.</p></div>

Q: When should you not finish a basement?

• <div><p>Basements with persistent moisture problems or flooding shouldn&rsquo;t be finished until the moisture issues have been fixed. In addition, if your foundation is cracked, you have unmitigated radon levels, or you have asbestos or lead pipes, remediate the underlying problem before finishing your basement. Turning a basement into living space before fixing these issues can lead to serious health risks or structural damage. </p></div>

Q: How long does it take to finish or remodel a basement?

• <div><p>The time it takes to finish or remodel a basement can vary significantly, ranging from a few weeks to several months or even up to a year. On average, the construction phase can take four to eight weeks, but the total project time can extend to three or four months when including planning and permits. The timeline depends on several factors, including the basement's size, design complexity, the scope of the work, and your contractor's availability. A more detailed breakdown for an average-sized basement might include: framing (3-5 days), electrical and rough-in plumbing (3-5 days), drywall installation (5 days), flooring (2-3 days), and final touches like painting and trim (about a week). If preliminary work like installing a waterproofing system or addressing structural issues is needed, the timeline could extend to six to twelve months. Factors like difficult access, material transport, and ventilation needs can also add to the project's duration.</p></div>

Q: What room is the most expensive to renovate?

• <div><p>Kitchens and bathrooms are typically the most expensive rooms to renovate. The high cost is due to several factors, including expensive appliances like ranges, hoods, and refrigerators, as well as costly fixtures. The 'bones' of the room, such as electrical and plumbing, are also expensive to move or replace. Because of the vast amount of prep work, finishing, and specialized labor involved in a relatively small footprint, these projects can cost double or more than a living space remodel. Even when trying to renovate on a budget, kitchens and bathrooms will likely carry a hefty price tag.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Basement Remodel pros in Manistee, MI

*The Angi rating for Basement Remodel companies in Manistee, MI 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 Manistee, MI 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 February 26, 2024

Reviewed in February 2024
Ezekiel has done many home improvement projects for us over the past few years. Heâ s very easy to work with and has offered great solutions for our many various remodeling projects that weâ ve hired him to do. He communicates well, works hard and completes his projects on time. His attention...
Keystone Contracting LLC
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Reviewed in May 2023
I was having a hard time finding help with remodeling in a up north remote location. I asked Paul if he could help. When others would not help He drove a long distance - 3 hr each way to help and managed the project. He had several very good and creative ideas. Has a lot of different skills.
P&J Contracting
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Reviewed in March 2023
Very professional and courteous. Look forward to working with them again on our bathroom remodel project.
The Cottage Pros, LLC
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Reviewed in October 2022
They installed a new furnace and water heater in our cabin. They had to navigate a steep ladder to get down to our half basement. They were efficient and courteous and did a good job. I would recommend them again.
Jim Leach Mechanical
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Reviewed in May 2021
Very professional. We had wood floors that needed to be sanded down and refinished. The workmanship was excellent. They set a schedule and worked within it. We continued to live in the house while the work was going on which, from other remodeling in the past, sometimes is difficult. It was...
Footprints Floors of Grand Rapids
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Reviewed in April 2018
Brian and Jared exceeded our expectations. Their pride in craftmanship, infinite knowledge, communication and ability to handle all aspects of our remodel were superior to any contractor we've hired. From tile to plumbing, drywall, painting...there isn't anything they can't do! I...
Posh Services
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Reviewed in February 2016
Although Joe Hayes? formal educational and home building industry credentials are strong, in our opionion, his 'hands on' knowledge and real world building experience appears limited and his claim to be a custom home builder was overstated. <br /> Prior to and during the contract signing, we...
Maplewood Homes
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Reviewed in August 2015
He tried to do it in November. He came back and did it right. I have the chimney leaking orange down to my basement. I can't get him to call me back. I had a painter to help me paint but I don't know if the leak is fixed yet.
JR Enterprises
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Reviewed in July 2015
Joe was great to work with. He answered our inquiry quickly, provided a timely quote, and worked well with us throughout the entire process. This was a BIG project...he had to lay a very large patio, add an outdoor BBQ area and install a big new outdoor fireplace. In addition, we were very...
SOUTHWEST DESIGN GROUP INC
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Reviewed in January 2012
Contacted Frey Construction to do an estimate of a remodel completion on my property. After the construction company forgot to add a major expense in the contract and what I thought were exorbitant quotes for add ons, I canceled. We did this within the 10 days, which was noted on the contract....
Greg Frey Construction
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Find Basement remodelers in Manistee

Andrew Edmondson

3.7(

)

Serving Manistee, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2008

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"In my process of getting bids and lining up a contractor for an upstairs tear off and rebuild remodel project, I was happy with Andrew's quick communication, price, and great ideas and suggestions for my project. But I ended up going with a different contractor, who promised me he could get there quickly, (but after months of waiting dropped the job). I wish I had gone with Andrew Edmondson. He did some work for some friends of ours this summer, and did a great job!"

Response time2 days

Recommended by86%of homeowners

Serving Manistee, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2006

Credit card accepted

"Amanda was really very good! At first I was very skeptical, thinking why did I pay money to just speak with someone on the phone about my kitchen remodel project... but after just a few minutes of her addressing some of the issues/questions I emailed to her earlier, I knew it was worth it. It was very clear that she knew her business and she gave me several ideas that I had not even thought about. I told her that I would definitely recommend her to friends and I will very likely use her again myself for my next home project!

"

California Client Saves with HMD Designer Discounts

Recommended by54%of homeowners

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Destination Home Builders

3.7(

)

Serving Manistee, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2021

Emergency services offered

Credit card accepted

"Joel and his team did a great job. Arrived on time, were diligent in their work and paid attention to the details. They stuck right with the project until completion. At the end Joel took the time to review everything to make sure it finished as expected. Well done. And I already have more work lined up for Joel and his team."

+17

Response time4 days

Response rate100%

Recommended by33%of homeowners

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Hampton Enterprise LLC

3.7(

)

Serving Manistee, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 1989

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"They were good. They were pretty fast and came on time. My overall experience with them has been good."

Recommended by60%of homeowners

Serving Manistee, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2004

Free estimates

Warranties offered

"Reasonable, completed on-time, thorough job, included plumbing hookup, gave design suggestions that made end result beautiful."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Serving Manistee, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 1982

H D Construction: "SERVING WEST MICHIGAN SINCE 1982" "FROM FOOTINGS TO FINISH"\nWe are proud to be West Michigan's choice of choices, we did receive an award for "READERS CHOICE for FAVORITE CONTRACTOR"- member of BUILDING TRADES ASSOCIATION AND NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF SMALL BUSINESS.\n

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Greeley Construction, Inc.

0.0(

)

Serving Manistee, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 1980

Free estimates

Greeley Construction, Inc. is locally owned and operated. We take great pride in our quality work and great customer service. Please call today for your free estimate.

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Wonderland Exterior

New to Angi

Serving Manistee, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2013

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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Simmons Handyman & Lawn Maintenance

New to Angi

Serving Manistee, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2019

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

Quality handyman work, started to work together and provide quality handyman work.\n\nMon-Fri 6am-8pm 7 days a week\n

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Diamante Inc

New to Angi

Serving Manistee, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2021

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

10+ years of experience! \nOur mission is to be a provider that brings back the personal touch with our customers. We will build a relationship that will last a lifetime after you see our quality work. As a locally owned and operated business, we feel invested in our clients and constantly strive for customer satisfaction. Call or message us to schedule an estimate today!

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Showing 1-10 of 18

Basement Remodel questions, answered by experts

It is common for a contractor to ask for a down payment before starting a project, especially for jobs that require purchasing materials and equipment or hiring a crew. The deposit amount can range from 10% to 50% of the total job cost. While a request for up to 50% is not unusual, a contractor should not ask for more than that, and you should never pay for a project in full before the work has begun. To protect yourself, always discuss payment terms before starting and have a written contract that outlines the project timeline and expectations. Additionally, be sure to hire reputable contractors and check their licensing and insurance before the project begins.

The difficulty of adding a basement to an existing house can vary depending on the house’s location, the size of the basement, and the type and condition of the existing foundation. Adding a basement is a job best handled by the pros, so you’ll need to enlist professional help for this project.

Basements with persistent moisture problems or flooding shouldn’t be finished until the moisture issues have been fixed. In addition, if your foundation is cracked, you have unmitigated radon levels, or you have asbestos or lead pipes, remediate the underlying problem before finishing your basement. Turning a basement into living space before fixing these issues can lead to serious health risks or structural damage.

The time it takes to finish or remodel a basement can vary significantly, ranging from a few weeks to several months or even up to a year. On average, the construction phase can take four to eight weeks, but the total project time can extend to three or four months when including planning and permits. The timeline depends on several factors, including the basement's size, design complexity, the scope of the work, and your contractor's availability. A more detailed breakdown for an average-sized basement might include: framing (3-5 days), electrical and rough-in plumbing (3-5 days), drywall installation (5 days), flooring (2-3 days), and final touches like painting and trim (about a week). If preliminary work like installing a waterproofing system or addressing structural issues is needed, the timeline could extend to six to twelve months. Factors like difficult access, material transport, and ventilation needs can also add to the project's duration.

Kitchens and bathrooms are typically the most expensive rooms to renovate. The high cost is due to several factors, including expensive appliances like ranges, hoods, and refrigerators, as well as costly fixtures. The 'bones' of the room, such as electrical and plumbing, are also expensive to move or replace. Because of the vast amount of prep work, finishing, and specialized labor involved in a relatively small footprint, these projects can cost double or more than a living space remodel. Even when trying to renovate on a budget, kitchens and bathrooms will likely carry a hefty price tag.

The Manistee, MI homeowners’ guide to basement remodels

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

Rachel Hoffman
•
Jul 20, 2026Jul 20, 2026
How Much Does a Basement Remodel Cost? [2026 Data]
A basement remodel can often cost as much as adding another room. However, homeowners should consider the usefulness and ROI of a remodel.
Haley Nothstein
•
May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Frame a Basement? [2026 Data]
The first step toward a cozy finished basement is adding its framing. How much does it cost to frame a basement? Let's break down the numbers.
Rachel Hoffman
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Finish a Basement? [2026 Data]
An unfinished basement has a lot of potential for a family room or guest suite. So how much does it cost to finish a basement? Read on for all cost factors.
Amy Freeman
•
Jul 20, 2026Jul 20, 2026
Basement Remodel on a Budget: Yes, You Can Do It
Do you have a finished basement? If you want to give it a new lease on life, find out how you can do a basement remodel on a budget.
Melissa Graham
•
May 18, 2026May 18, 2026
5 Questions to Ask About Basement Remodels
These questions for professional contractors can help address your basement remodeling needs, design, and the best time to start the project.
Lawrence Bonk
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
These 8 Red Flags Will Help You Spot a Bad Basement Remodeler
Hiring a bad basement remodeler can wreak havoc on the look and longevity of your unfinished space. Here are red flags to look for as you vet basement contractors.