Get matched with top custom home builders in Arlee, MT

Renovating or remodeling an existing structure is usually less expensive than the cost to build a new house. That’s because you can save on the costs of new building materials, laying a foundation, framing the entire building, and installing new materials and utilities throughout the house. However, if a home is in very poor condition or is incredibly old, you could spend more on upgrades and restoration compared to building from scratch.

The average cost to renovate or remodel a home is $52,300, with most projects ranging from $19,500 to over $88,400. However, costs can vary significantly, from as low as $3,000 for a small project to $170,000 or more for a complete home remodel.

Several factors influence the total price, including:

• Project Scope and Size: The extent of the renovations, whether it's a single room or the entire house.

• Location: Geographic location affects labor and material costs.

• Materials: The quality of materials chosen.

• Room Type: Kitchen remodels ($14,500 - $70,000+) are generally more expensive than bedroom remodels ($1,500 - $5,500).

• Other Factors: The time of year, complexity of the work, and any additions or expansions.

On a per-square-foot basis, you can expect to pay between $15 and $60 for standard projects and up to $150 for luxury renovations.

Examples of specific project costs include:

• Basement remodel: ~$20,200

• Garage remodel: ~$27,900

• Loft conversion: ~$20,200

• Disability accommodation remodel: ~$4,300

• Major home repairs: ~$11,700

If you are financing the project, note that some loan programs, like the FHA 203(k), may require a minimum project cost (e.g., $5,000) and will necessitate a home appraisal and professional cost estimates. Using a home renovation cost estimator can also help you budget for your project.

Whether a prefab home is worth it or not will depend on your personal needs and preferences. Overall, prefab homes tend to cost less than traditional homes, although they also tend to have lower resale values. Another thing to consider is that prefab homes usually last 50 to 60 years or longer, while traditional homes last 50 to 100 years or more.

Yes, a home builder or contractor should have the proper licensing and insurance. Licensing requirements vary by state and municipality, but most states mandate that a builder holds at least a general contractor’s license. For specialized work such as plumbing, electrical, roofing, or sewage systems, individual licenses may be required, in which case the builder may subcontract the work. You can use Angi’s state licensing tool to review your local guidelines and confirm a builder's credentials. As you browse professionals, you can also look for the “Angi Certified” badge. This indicates the business meets our certification standards, which include passing a criminal background check, holding applicable state and local licenses, and maintaining an average rating of 3.0 or better.