Is it more affordable to finish an attic or a basement?

• <div><p>It is generally more affordable to finish a basement than an attic, though it ultimately depends on how you plan to use the space. The average <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-it-cost-finish-basement.htm">cost to finish a basement</a> ranges from $7 to $23 per square foot, while attic renovation costs $30 to $60 per square foot. However, a simple attic conversion to a storage space will cost significantly less. </p></div>

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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>

Q: Do general contractors require a down payment, and what is the typical payment schedule?

• <div><p>Yes, most general contractors require an initial down payment. A reasonable deposit is typically between 10% and 25% of the total project cost, although this can vary by project size and location. This upfront payment helps the contractor cover initial costs like materials, permits, licensing, and hiring subcontractors. The remaining balance is usually billed according to a schedule outlined in your contract, often tied to project milestones or completion dates. Be cautious of contractors who ask for a large deposit of 50% or more, as this could be a red flag for a scam.</p></div>

Q: Would the newly raised basement ceiling need to be finished?

• <div><p>You can <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-paint-walls-ceiling-and-trim.htm">paint your ceiling</a> or install a drywall ceiling if the ceiling is unfinished, as they take up less headroom than drop ceilings. </p><p>If there are pipes in the way of ceiling installation, you can do one of two things: reroute the pipes or adjust the installation to fit, which will cost extra.</p></div>

Q: Does a finished basement count toward a home's square footage?

• <div><p>A finished basement does not always count as square footage, as this varies by state regulations. In areas that allow below-grade spaces to be included in a home's official square footage, the basement must typically meet certain conditions. These conditions often include having a functional egress and being a livable space with flooring, finished walls, and temperature control. To be certain, contact your local assessor to confirm your area's specific policies regarding basement square footage.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Basement Remodel pros in Richland, MO

*The Angi rating for Basement Remodel companies in Richland, MO 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 Richland, MO 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 January 24, 2026

Reviewed in January 2026
Communication. Anyone who is in business or has ran a business knows how important communication is and yet mad city windows and baths can’t communicate with their customers. This has been an extremely frustrating experience from the minute we signed the papers. Our bathtub leaked the first time...
Mad City Windows & Baths
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Reviewed in August 2024
Excellent service at reasonable price, I would recommend Ace Handyman and sons for any remodel project.
Ace Handyman & Sons
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Reviewed in February 2024
Josh has worked on my home three different times. He installed siding and windows, remodeled 2 bathrooms and plumbing work. He is reliable, honest and fair. I have personally recommended him to others who also were impressed. He stands behind his work
4S Construction
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Reviewed in September 2020
This is the second time I hired this company to do work in my home. They are fast in responding with an estimate as well as getting the job done!! To be fair my jobs were likely on the small side as I asked for one wall each time. I found other businesses were extremely high in their estimates...
Reyes Painting and Remodeling
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Reviewed in March 2020
He is a very hard worker, and the overall project turned out very well. He is remarkable trim carpenter and I had a lot of trim in the house. We restored a late 1800s Victorian house. The job took longer than I had anticipated but they say it always does when you are doing that kind of...
Done Rite Construction
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Reviewed in March 2018
I had John replace a bathtub / shower with a shower stall in a double wide mobile home. The tub had many repaired cracks requiring the sub flooring and 2x6.s to be relocated or replaced. Of course nothing was level including the walls. John gave me an estimate for four days to complete and he...
John Boy's Construction Services
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Reviewed in June 2016
My family's experience with this company has been not only disastrous, but severely emotionally distressing as well. As a military veteran with 22 years of distinguished service to this nation and with this being my 11th, and final relocation to retire, having the cumbersome task of dealing with...
EcoClean Carpet Cleaning
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Reviewed in May 2016
<p>Terrible from day 1. Two guys showed up at 9:45. By then, I already had everything disconnected and removed from the bathroom and taken outside. The only tear out left was for them to pull out the drywall on the two walls and bag it/remove it. Second worker was moved to a different job...
Bob The Handyman
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Reviewed in November 2013
In an emergency remodel situation, they were able to jump right on the project and had it completed within a months time!
Rocco's Remodeling and Restoration
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Reviewed in August 2013
I've known Tom for years and when we needed to do some construction, and our previous guy vanished after coming for estimates, we called Tom. The shed went great. It is as solid and any I've ever seen. Concrete floor, stick frame, matches the house perfectly. Built on time and on budget. <br />...
Wonder Werks LLC
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Find Basement remodelers in Richland

Serving Richland, MO and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2000

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

"Joe is awesome. He does outstanding work and I highly recommend him to anyone looking for a builder."

2 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by92%of homeowners

Serving Richland, MO and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 1985

Free estimates

Warranties offered

"We had a kitchen and three bathrooms remodeled at the Lake of the Ozarks. It can be difficult to find reliable workers in that area. Communication and reliability were excellent from day one. Tony and Shelly were very responsive to any questions. The work was done on time and on budget. All of our little picky requests were satisfied quickly and without hesitation. We would definitely hire them again."

Response time1 day

9 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by90%of homeowners

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Able Renovations, LLC

5.0(

)

Basement - Remodel

Serving Richland, MO and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2004

Free estimates

Customers say: Quick response

"They are really easy to work with and figure out what you want and make it into reality"

Response time3 days

2 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Serving Richland, MO and surrounding areas

Approved

Emergency services offered

Small jobs welcome

Hi, I’m Elisha Malinski, and I specialize in maintaining and improving homes with care and precision.\n\nFrom detailed cleaning to repairs and remodeling, I provide high-quality work tailored to your needs. I focus on craftsmanship, reliability, and delivering results that elevate your space.\n\nMy goal is simple: to make your home cleaner, more functional, and something you’re proud of.

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Walker Home Inspections and Construction services

5.0(

)

Basement - Remodel

Serving Richland, MO and surrounding areas

Approved

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Warranties offered

"Great Job, professional arrived early and took about 2 hours very detailed looked at everything I would use Walker again If you want a great detailed home inspection call these guys"

8 neighbors recently requested a quote

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Stoneys Home Improvements LLC

New to Angi

Basement - Remodel

Serving Richland, MO and surrounding areas

Approved

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

Credit card accepted

My name is Kyle with Stoney’s Home Improvements. I offer a wide variety of constructions jobs. Contact me and we can get you taken care of.

Serving Richland, MO and surrounding areas

Approved

Small jobs welcome

I’m a young outgoing individual, I’ve had a full time job since I was 14 trying every trade you can think of I have several years of plumbing under my belt, I’m a skilled framer, I’ve done electric for several years and even done mechanical work, I found a love and passion for handyman work and decided I was ready to take the leap on my own! If you need anything done no job is to big or small don’t be afraid to reach out I’d love to come check it out for you!!

Serving Richland, MO and surrounding areas

Approved

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

Hello, I am a recently retired educator and coach. I learned building trades from my father as a child and worked with him in construction for 8 years building houses from the ground up including plumbing, wiring, concrete, cabinetry, etc. from framing to finish. I have completed my own additions, remodeling, and repairs for the last 30 years. I'm a detail oriented perfectionist that enjoys working with my hands and providing a quality, reasonably priced service.

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Diederich Construction LLC

New to Angi

Basement - Remodel

Serving Richland, MO and surrounding areas

Approved

Free estimates

Warranties offered

Diederich Construction LLC is a bathroom remodeling and tile shower specialist serving Springfield, MO and surrounding areas. We focus on high-quality tile work, custom showers, and curbless shower installations using proven waterproofing systems. Whether you’re updating a bathroom or building a custom walk-in shower, we deliver clean, professional results with attention to detail. Free estimates available.

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Ahmed Construction LLC.

5.0(

)

Basement - Remodel

Serving Richland, MO and surrounding areas

In business since 2021

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Excellent service and good quality work. Very professional. Highly recommend them for any construction work."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Showing 1-10 of 68

Basement Remodel questions, answered by experts

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.

Yes, most general contractors require an initial down payment. A reasonable deposit is typically between 10% and 25% of the total project cost, although this can vary by project size and location. This upfront payment helps the contractor cover initial costs like materials, permits, licensing, and hiring subcontractors. The remaining balance is usually billed according to a schedule outlined in your contract, often tied to project milestones or completion dates. Be cautious of contractors who ask for a large deposit of 50% or more, as this could be a red flag for a scam.

You can paint your ceiling or install a drywall ceiling if the ceiling is unfinished, as they take up less headroom than drop ceilings.

If there are pipes in the way of ceiling installation, you can do one of two things: reroute the pipes or adjust the installation to fit, which will cost extra.

It is generally more affordable to finish a basement than an attic, though it ultimately depends on how you plan to use the space. The average cost to finish a basement ranges from $7 to $23 per square foot, while attic renovation costs $30 to $60 per square foot. However, a simple attic conversion to a storage space will cost significantly less.

A finished basement does not always count as square footage, as this varies by state regulations. In areas that allow below-grade spaces to be included in a home's official square footage, the basement must typically meet certain conditions. These conditions often include having a functional egress and being a livable space with flooring, finished walls, and temperature control. To be certain, contact your local assessor to confirm your area's specific policies regarding basement square footage.

The Richland, MO homeowners’ guide to basement remodels

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

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Rachel Hoffman
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Aug 24, 2026Aug 24, 2026
How Much Does a Basement Remodel Cost? [2026 Data]
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Aug 4, 2026Aug 4, 2026
Your Guide to Renovating a Basement From Top to Bottom
Take the mystery out of renovating a basement by following a simple plan to ensure your remodel goes smoothly from start to finish.