What is the hardest part of finishing a basement?

• <div><p>The most challenging part of finishing a basement is addressing moisture control. Basement waterproofing is an essential task that requires a professional’s skills and knowledge. If you don’t properly waterproof your finished basement, it’ll be vulnerable to dampness, water damage, and mold growth. Ensuring proper insulation and ventilation to combat these issues while meeting building codes adds complexity to your remodeling project.</p></div>

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Q: Does a bar in the basement add value?

• <div><p>Building a bar in the basement will likely add value to your home, although it&rsquo;s unlikely that you&rsquo;ll see a significant return on investment (ROI) unless you plan on using the space for you and your guests. If you think you&rsquo;ll use the area frequently, though, it&rsquo;s probably worth the investment, and you should see a bump in value if or when you sell your property.</p></div>

Q: Is framing a basement challenging?

• <div><p>While framing a basement is not as difficult as finishing a basement, it's something you should typically leave to the pros. That&rsquo;s because if something is installed correctly, it will affect your entire basement. However, you can take care of some of the smaller tasks, like filling holes or putting up some insulation. </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: What are the most expensive parts of finishing a basement?

• <div><p>Anything having to do with the structure of your home, such as raising the ceiling, is usually the most expensive part of finishing a basement. Another project component that could be a surprisingly high expense is adding an exterior entrance. </p><p>The <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/what-average-cost-add-exitwalk-out-my-finished-basement.htm">cost of a walkout basement</a> can be anywhere from $5,000 to $35,000.</p></div>

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R&K Electrical Solutions

5.0(

)

Serving Columbus, NM and surrounding areas

In business since 2020

Emergency services offered

"He did an awesome job in landscaping and remodel a room. He was professional and very polite"

+15

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Serving Columbus, NM 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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2 Daughters Painting & Handyman

5.0(

)

Serving Columbus, NM and surrounding areas

In business since 1990

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Been in business since 1990. No project too big or too small. Customer satisfaction is our motto, financing is available. Senior discount for Angies list customers.

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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West-Sons General Builders LTD Co

4.5(

)

Serving Columbus, NM and surrounding areas

In business since 2015

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

We are a locally owned and operated licensed company that values honesty and integrity in all aspects of our business. We are a dedicated team of professionals and have over 20 years of hands on experience in technical industries, to provide innovative ideas and suggestions tailored to your projects. Our services are customized to your individual needs, paying close attention to the details of each project that we are involved with. Please feel free to contact us today!

Response time5 days

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Hampton Enterprise LLC

3.7(

)

Serving Columbus, NM and surrounding areas

In business since 1989

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Our mission at Hampton Enterprise LLC is to provide clients with superior customer service, quality work and speedy service in all aspects of their home improvement needs. Licensed, insured and trusted since 1989; come discover the Hampton difference today!\n\nWe specialize in the installation and repair of Windows, Doors, Flooring, Sinks, Bathtubs, Showers, Sprinkler Systems and much more. We also offer Interior and Exterior Home Painting, Custom Welding Fabrication and Carpentry.Localy in your area just call and i will call back with a local number thank you . from James Hampton\n\nAL.Dothan 334-648-3817,\nAL Birmingham 334-648-3817,\nAL Huntsville 334-648-3817,\nAL Mobile 334-648-3817,\nAL Tuscaloosa 334-648-3817,\nAL Montgomery 334-578-4761,\nAR Little Rock 334-648-3817,\nAZ Phoenix 334-648-3817,\nCA LosAngeles/Sacramento 334-648-3817,\nCO Denver/Colorado Springs 334-648-3817,\nCT Hartford 334-648-3817,\nDE Dover 334-648-3817,\nFL Tallahassee 334-648-3817,\nFL Cape Canaveral/ Cocoa 334-648-3817,\nFL. Destin 334-648-3817,\nFL Gainsville 334-648-3817\nFl Jacksonville 334-648-3817,\nFL Orlando 334-648-3817,\nFL Panama City 334-648-3817,\nFL Tampa 334-648-3817,\nFL Miami 334-648-3817,\nGA Atlanta 334-648-3817,\nGA Albany 334-648-3817,\nGA Augusta 334-648-3817,\nGA Columbus 334-648-3817,\nGA Macon 334-648-3817,\nGA Valdosta 334-648-3817,\nIA Des Moines 334-648-3817,\nID Boise 334-648-3817,\nIL Chicago/Springfield 334-648-3817,\nIN Indianapolis 334-648-3817,\nKS Levenworth/Topeka 334-648-3817,\nKY Frankfort 334-648-3817,\nLA New orleans/Baton Rouge 334-648-3817,\nMA Boston 334-648-3817,\nMD Annapolis 334-648-3817,\nME Augusta 334-648-3817,\nMI Detroit/Lansing 334-648-3817,\nMN Saint Paul 334-648-3817,\nMO kansas City/Jefferson City 334-648-3817,\nMS Jackson 334-648-3817,\nMS Biloxi 334-648-3817,\nMS Gulf Port 334-648-3817,\nMT helena 334-648-3817,\nNC Raleigh 334-648-3817,\nND Bismark 334-648-3817,\nNE Lincoln 334-648-3817, \nNJ Trenton 334-648-3817,\nNM Santa Fe 334-648-3817,\nNV Carson City 334-648-3817,\nNV Las Vegas 334-648-3817\nNY Albany 334-648-3817,\nOH Columbus 334-648-3817,\nOK Oklahoma Ciy 334-648-3817,\nOR Salem 334-648-3817,\nPA harrisburg 334-648-3817,\nRI Providence 334-648-3817,\nSC Columbia 334-648-3817,\nSD Pierre 334-648-3817,\nTN nashville 334-648-3817,\nTX Austin 334-648-3817,\nUT Salt Lake City 334-648-3817,\nVA Richmond 334-648-3817,\nVT montpelier 334-648-3817,\nWI Madison 334-648-3817,\nWV Charleston 334-648-3817,\nWY Cheyenne 334-648-3817

Recommended by60%of homeowners

Serving Columbus, NM and surrounding areas

In business since 2006

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

Lannick Construction was started in 2009 by Ted Hedgecock. Ted has many years of experience in all types of construction. He has a great passion for his work and will always make sure it is completed to the customers liking. Please give us a call or message us. We would love to meet with you to see if we can help make your vision for your home or business a reality. Look forward to hearing from you and having the opportunity to work together. \n\n

Response time11 hrs

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Serving Columbus, NM and surrounding areas

In business since 2009

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

NGT is a premiere full service residential contractor that operates out of Santa Clara, NM. We pride ourselves on high quality work and precise attention to details. Call today!

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Harley Services

New to Angi

Serving Columbus, NM and surrounding areas

In business since 2022

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Harley Services is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.

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Basement Remodel questions, answered by experts

Building a bar in the basement will likely add value to your home, although it’s unlikely that you’ll see a significant return on investment (ROI) unless you plan on using the space for you and your guests. If you think you’ll use the area frequently, though, it’s probably worth the investment, and you should see a bump in value if or when you sell your property.

The most challenging part of finishing a basement is addressing moisture control. Basement waterproofing is an essential task that requires a professional’s skills and knowledge. If you don’t properly waterproof your finished basement, it’ll be vulnerable to dampness, water damage, and mold growth. Ensuring proper insulation and ventilation to combat these issues while meeting building codes adds complexity to your remodeling project.

While framing a basement is not as difficult as finishing a basement, it's something you should typically leave to the pros. That’s because if something is installed correctly, it will affect your entire basement. However, you can take care of some of the smaller tasks, like filling holes or putting up some insulation.

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.

Anything having to do with the structure of your home, such as raising the ceiling, is usually the most expensive part of finishing a basement. Another project component that could be a surprisingly high expense is adding an exterior entrance.

The cost of a walkout basement can be anywhere from $5,000 to $35,000.

The Columbus, NM 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

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May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
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