Comprehensive Guide to Home Remodeling Costs in Atlanta: Real Prices, Key Factors, and Local Insights
Thinking about remodeling your home in Atlanta, but worried about what it might cost? You’re not alone. With local home prices climbing and renovation fever spreading, it’s easy to get lost in all the numbers. Maybe your kitchen feels dated, your bathroom’s too cramped, or you’re dreaming of that big backyard deck—but the idea of facing a surprise bill is enough to make anyone pause.
Table Of Content
- Overview of Home Remodeling Costs in Atlanta
- Detailed Cost Breakdowns by Project Type
- Kitchen Remodels: Where Your Dollars Go
- Bathroom Remodels: Modest Makeovers to Spa Retreats
- Basements: From Spare Space to High-End Havens
- Outdoor Projects: Decks, Patios, and Outdoor Kitchens
- Home Additions: More Space, Bigger Budgets
- Key Factors Influencing Remodeling Costs in Atlanta
- Age and Condition of Your Home
- Scope and Complexity of the Project
- Neighborhood Differences
- Material and Finish Choices
- Permitting and Inspection Requirements
- Case Studies and Real-World Remodeling Examples
- Gut Renovation of a 1950s Home: Dexter’s $120,000 Transformation
- 3,200 Sq Ft Farmhouse Renovation: Kimberly’s $150,000 Strategy
- Deck Rebuild: 300 Sq Ft of Outdoor Living for $20,000
- Data Back-Up: Real Averages for Key Project Types
- Managing Your Atlanta Remodel: Planning, Estimating, and Staying on Budget
- How to Get Accurate Estimates: Why Details Matter
- Budgeting for Permits, Surprises, and Contingencies
- Handling Common Unexpected Costs
- DIY and Cost-Saving Tactics: Smart Moves for Atlanta Homeowners
- Material and Design Choices for Savings
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can you save money by doing parts of your remodel yourself in Atlanta?
- Can you live at home during a major remodel in Atlanta?
- Can you get accurate estimates from contractors before starting?
- Can you phase your remodeling project to control costs?
- Can you expect your remodeling budget to change once work begins?
- Can you use lower-cost materials and still get a stylish result?
In Atlanta, renovation costs come in all shapes and sizes. From a simple bathroom update to a full-home overhaul, prices can swing widely. Older houses might hide wiring or plumbing problems, and even “quick fixes” can snowball if you don’t plan carefully. Plus, Atlanta’s busy building scene and rising demand have pushed up prices for both labor and materials.
But here’s some good news: you can control your remodeling costs with the right know-how. In this guide, you’ll see real Atlanta pricing, learn exactly what drives those numbers up (or down), and get expert tips to keep your project on track and on budget. Ready to unlock the secrets behind remodeling expenses in Atlanta? Let’s break it all down and help you make smart choices for your next home project.
Overview of Home Remodeling Costs in Atlanta
Let’s dig into the numbers behind Atlanta remodeling—because, let’s be honest, the first thing on your mind is, “How much is this really going to cost?” The short answer: it depends a lot on your project size, finishes, and the age of your house. But local experts have shared real numbers you can use as a starting point.
For full-scale, whole-home renovations in Atlanta, you’ll typically see costs start around $70–$100 per square foot for a gut renovation. That means taking your house down to the studs and rebuilding—with budget finishes—according to Sterling Works, Sweeten, and Elevation Building Co. Once you start choosing high-end finishes, reworking layouts, or tackling old-home surprises, the final bill for a full home remodel can range from $100,000 to over $500,000. For example, Sweeten contractor Dexter recently finished an 85% gut renovation of a 1950s home with high-end touches at a $120,000 budget.
If you’re not gutting the entire house, specific project costs have a wide range depending on scope:
- Kitchens: Entry-level updates run $16,500 to $30,000 for basic fixtures and finishes. High-end, large kitchens can soar to $300,000.
- Bathrooms: Expect $7,500 at the low end (HomeAdvisor) and up to $75,000+ if you’re expanding or upgrading to a luxury suite.
- Basements: Simple finishes might start at $20,500, but complex or luxury basement remodels—including home theaters or guest suites—can hit $500,000, according to HomeAdvisor and Elevation.
- Additions: Prices are all over the board, depending on type. Ground-level extensions typically run $300–$500+ per square foot. Want a second story? Think $350–$600+ per square foot. Garage conversions and bump-outs tend to be cheaper ($100–$350/sq ft), while sunrooms or ADUs can command $250–$700+ per square foot (Artistic Construction).
Why are Atlanta’s renovation costs climbing? The city has added over 5.5 million people since 2010—now topping six million residents. That boom means high demand for both housing and skilled trades. You might have to pay more for labor and wait longer for materials, especially in popular spots like Midtown or Buckhead.
So, as you weigh remodeling your home in Atlanta, remember: a simple update might be relatively affordable, but the more you do—and the fancier you get—the higher the costs climb. Up next, we’ll break down what drives these numbers for each major type of remodel, helping you pinpoint what works best for your space and budget.
Detailed Cost Breakdowns by Project Type
Now that you’ve got a sense of overall remodeling ranges in Atlanta, let’s break things down by project type. You’ll see just how different costs can be depending on what you want to tackle. Knowing these details can help you set a realistic budget for your kitchen, bathroom, basement, outdoor space, or addition. Let’s take a closer look at what Atlanta homeowners are actually paying—and what influences those numbers.
Kitchen Remodels: Where Your Dollars Go
Most folks start dreaming about the kitchen first, right? A basic Atlanta kitchen remodel for about 200 square feet generally runs $20,000–$30,000 (Sweeten, Sterling Works). That’ll get you staple items like laminate or entry-level stone countertops, stock cabinets, and standard appliances. Planning to keep your existing layout? That’s smart—changing plumbing or electrical jumps your bill quickly.
If you want mid-grade finishes—think semi-custom cabinets, quartz or granite counters, and built-in microwaves—expect to pay $35,000–$75,000. According to Intown Renovations and HomeAdvisor, $53,500 is the average cost for a full-scale kitchen overhaul in Atlanta.
Looking for luxury? High-end kitchen remodels can hit $65,000 to $300,000 or more (Elevation Building Co, Sweeten). That might include custom cabinetry, imported tile, a 15-foot island, chef-grade appliances, and smart home tech. As Elevation’s blog points out, “On average, a kitchen remodel in Atlanta can range from $100,000 to $300,000.” Go super luxe with a kitchen expansion? It can climb to $500,000, depending on your choices.
Keep in mind, individual pieces add up fast. Just kitchen appliances can range from $2,200 for basic packages to $20,000+ for premium sets (Sara Cowley Homes). New countertops typically run $2,600–$4,000 for an average Atlanta kitchen.
So, whether you want updates or a stunning chef’s space, your kitchen budget depends on size, layout changes, and finish quality.
Bathroom Remodels: Modest Makeovers to Spa Retreats
Bathrooms may be small, but costs can pack a punch. Earlier, we shared that a basic Atlanta bathroom remodel often costs $7,500–$15,000, with HomeAdvisor jobs averaging about $7,500 and a low end of $2,500. For this price, you’ll get a new vanity, standard tub or shower, tile floors, and basic fixtures—great for secondary bathrooms or condos.
Step up to mid-grade bathrooms, and the price jumps to $16,500–$40,000 (Sterling Works, Intown Renovations). That pays for upgrades like ceramic or porcelain tile, double vanities, better lighting, and perhaps a glass shower enclosure. According to Sweeten, this level often adds $13,000 in value, recouping nearly 65% of the project.
Want a spa-style primary bath? High-end and suite-level remodels start at $35,000 and can reach $75,000 or more (Elevation Building Co, Sterling Works). For that, think custom vanities, natural stone, freestanding tubs, heated floors, double shower heads, and even expanding into an adjoining space. Sterling Works notes luxury features like “frameless showers and marble counters” push costs up, but truly transform the feel.
You can often save by keeping the existing layout and refacing vanities or using chrome/nickel fixtures rather than trendy materials.
Basements: From Spare Space to High-End Havens
Building on the previous points about boosting your usable home space, let’s talk basements. Atlanta homes often have unfinished or outdated basements, and finishing them can be a cost-effective way to add square footage.
Basic basement finishing with drywall, carpet, and simple lighting starts about $20,500 and runs up to $70,000+ (Intown Renovations, HomeAdvisor). This gives you a clean, functional bonus room or play area—think rec rooms, guest rooms, or a simple TV lounge.
If you’re dreaming about a true basement remodel—with a home theater, full bath, kitchenette, or wine cellar—be ready for a much steeper investment: $100,000 to $500,000 is the typical range (Elevation Building Co). Why is the spread so huge? Moisture-proofing, large custom spaces, plumbing, and special amenities quickly drive up the budget. “Finishing a basement typically costs between $100,000 and $200,000,” Elevation says, but custom entertainment spaces go much higher.
Outdoor Projects: Decks, Patios, and Outdoor Kitchens
Don’t forget Atlanta’s year-round mild weather—your backyard can become living space, too! Composite decks (made from wood mixed with plastic) average $20,000, or about $61 per square foot. Wood decks cut that to $14,000 (or $44/sq ft), but require more upkeep (Sweeten, Sterling Works, HomeAdvisor).
Stone patios start around $12 per square foot, but add $5,000 more for outdoor lighting or ceiling fans. For a serious cookout upgrade, outdoor kitchens run from $5,000 to $20,000, with built-in grills, sinks, and storage.
A real Sweeten client spent $20,000 to rebuild and screen in a 300-square-foot deck, showing how even basic decks can add up if you add screens or custom finishes.
Home Additions: More Space, Bigger Budgets
If you need to truly expand, additions in Atlanta have wide cost ranges. Here are typical numbers, based on Artistic Construction’s local guide:
- Ground-level addition/extension: $300–$500+ per sq ft. This is for a major new room on the main floor.
- Second-story addition: $350–$600+ per sq ft. This massive project involves new roof structure, stairs, and is very complex.
- Garage conversions: $100–$250 per sq ft. This is often the most budget-friendly way to add living area.
- Bump-outs (small room extensions): $200–$350 per sq ft. Great for enlarging kitchens or adding a nook.
- Sunrooms and ADUs (accessory dwelling units): $250–$700+ per sq ft. These special-use spaces have wide ranging costs due to glass, insulation, HVAC, or kitchen/bath needs.
Whatever option you consider, always plan for permits and possible utility upgrades.
Next, we’ll dig into all the hidden factors that can push your Atlanta remodeling costs even higher—or help you save when you plan wisely.
Key Factors Influencing Remodeling Costs in Atlanta
After covering the price tags for different types of Atlanta remodels, let’s zoom in on what actually drives those numbers up—or helps you keep them in check. Real talk: Pricing isn’t just about picking a fancy tile or choosing between a small or big bathroom. There are several local variables that can change your remodeling bill, sometimes in ways you wouldn’t expect.
Age and Condition of Your Home
Let’s start with the age of your house. If your home was built before 1978, there’s a high chance it contains lead paint (Sweeten, Sterling Works). Homes from the 1930s through the 1980s might even have asbestos. Why does that matter? Before any work starts, these hazardous materials must be tested—and if found, professionally removed. Remediation like this isn’t cheap and can add thousands to your project. One Sweeten contractor noted, “Testing homes from these periods is a must, and removal can significantly bump your costs.” Plus, older houses in Atlanta often hide other surprises like outdated wiring, knob-and-tube systems, or patchwork jobs left by past unlicensed contractors. According to Intown Renovations, fixing these issues can quickly eat into your budget, especially when bringing plumbing and electric up to code.
Scope and Complexity of the Project
What you choose to tackle matters just as much as your home’s bones. Simple cosmetic upgrades—like painting or swapping lights—are on the lower end of the cost spectrum. But if you’re moving walls, expanding kitchens, or gutting bathrooms, things change fast. Custom cabinetry, structural repairs, or totally new layouts require extra trades and time. Sterling Works points out, “Keeping your kitchen or bath layout the same can save thousands by avoiding pricey plumbing and electrical moves.”
Neighborhood Differences
Atlanta isn’t all priced the same. Doing work in Midtown, Buckhead, or fast-growing suburbs (like Johns Creek or Alpharetta) usually costs more than outlying counties. Why? Higher property values raise expectations for finish quality, which means contractors may quote more, and premium materials are the norm. Intown Renovations has noted that local permit processes also vary; some areas charge more administrative fees and take longer for approvals, adding both time and money to your budget.
Material and Finish Choices
Here’s where a lot of your budget control lives: the quality and brand of finishes. If you use builder-grade cabinets, standard granite, or basic appliances, you’ll pay much less than if you choose custom millwork, imported stone, or ultra-premium appliances. Sweeten shared some real numbers: a high-end appliance package from brands like Sub-Zero or Wolf can cost $20,000+, whereas Home Depot packages start around $3,500. Even basic granite counters versus exotic stone can double or triple your cost. The choices you make here ripple through your whole estimate.
Permitting and Inspection Requirements
Don’t ignore the paperwork. Permitting fees in Atlanta can range from $50–$200 for simple projects, but bigger jobs in the city are calculated at $7 per $1,000 of construction cost. Plus, each trade—like plumbing or electrical—may have separate permit fees ($75–$175 each). Contractors also charge labor to pull permits, sometimes $300–$1,000 for their time. Sweeten and Intown Renovations warn that different counties (and even neighborhoods) have unique rules, so you’ll want your contractor to clarify exact requirements up front.
Now that you know what really shapes Atlanta remodeling costs—from the quirks of an older house to the impact of your favorite finishes—let’s see how these factors play out in real-life projects, including what local homeowners and contractors actually spent.
Case Studies and Real-World Remodeling Examples
Now that you know what’s driving remodeling costs in Atlanta, let’s see how those factors come together on real projects. These case studies give you true Atlanta numbers, the scope of work, and how local homeowners and contractors stayed on budget—even when surprises popped up.
Gut Renovation of a 1950s Home: Dexter’s $120,000 Transformation
Remember how older Atlanta homes can bring surprise costs? Here’s a real one. Sweeten contractor Dexter tackled an 85% gut renovation of a 1950s home. He kept the original basement but updated almost everything else. The project included brand new siding, restoration and polishing of the original wood floors, two remodeled bathrooms (one with a custom shower, the other with a new tub), gold-tone faucets, and a striking oversized kitchen island with a farmhouse sink.
They went for high-end finishes and custom touches, yet wrapped the entire job at $120,000. This aligns closely with earlier cost ranges: gut renovations in Atlanta often start around $70–$100 per square foot, but the final total depends on how much is replaced, what’s uncovered in the walls, and the quality of finishes you pick.
Both Dexter and his clients learned the importance of testing for hazardous materials in older homes. Asbestos or lead paint removal can add thousands to the budget, so they prioritized early testing before work began.
3,200 Sq Ft Farmhouse Renovation: Kimberly’s $150,000 Strategy
Let’s move to another bold Atlanta project. Sweeten contractor Kimberly’s team renovated a 3,200-square-foot farmhouse, with a $150,000 budget. What did they tackle? Three bathrooms, an expanded primary suite, and a full kitchen remodel featuring custom cabinets and quartz countertops.
Here’s the twist: the homeowners pitched in with some DIY tasks, working alongside Kimberly’s crew to keep costs in check. Their hands-on help allowed the team to splurge in some areas (like the kitchen) while being smart with finishes elsewhere.
Kimberly stressed the importance of sticking with cost-effective materials for decorative items—think floors and tiling—while focusing spending on standout features. She said, “Making some smart choices made it look brand new without blowing the budget.”
Unexpected work can pop up in older Atlanta homes, especially past DIY repairs or out-of-date wiring. Kimberly said that fixing hidden problems like this can quickly push a farmhouse or similar project’s budget as high as $225,000. That’s why planning for a realistic buffer is a must.
Deck Rebuild: 300 Sq Ft of Outdoor Living for $20,000
Building on the outdoor cost details we discussed earlier, here’s a concrete example of a moderate Atlanta deck rebuild. A Sweeten client had Dexter rebuild their roughly 300-square-foot deck and add a flyscreen enclosure—a smart choice given Atlanta’s humid summers. The total project cost was $20,000, about $65 per square foot, matching earlier composite deck averages.
This job’s price reflects durable materials, expert installation, and added comfort features, like the screening. Want to dial back the budget? Choosing treated wood decking instead of composite typically saves about 25%, though wood requires more upkeep.
Data Back-Up: Real Averages for Key Project Types
Atlanta remodel numbers aren’t just case-by-case. Here’s what bigger data sets show from HomeAdvisor and Elevation Building Co:
- Kitchen remodels: Average $16,500, with a range from $5,000 (small update) up to $80,000 or more.
- Bathroom remodels: Average $7,500. Small projects can be just $2,500, with peaks around $15,000 for higher-end jobs.
- Basement remodels: Average about $20,500 on HomeAdvisor. Elevation Building Co notes luxury projects can soar to $55,000 or even $500,000 for sprawling home theaters or suites.
These numbers drive home why it’s so important to define your project scope and priorities early. Homeowners who succeed, like Dexter and Kimberly’s clients, build in a contingency for surprises and spend where it matters most for their lifestyle and future value.
We’ve seen how local budgets come together and where costs can veer off track. Next, let’s explore the proven strategies Atlanta homeowners and professionals use to plan, estimate, and actually stick to those budgets—without sacrificing that dream finish.
Managing Your Atlanta Remodel: Planning, Estimating, and Staying on Budget
Now that you’ve seen how real Atlanta homeowners tackle everything from gut remodels to major additions, let’s talk about the practical side—managing your budget and avoiding money pits. You already know big projects can bring sticker shock, but with a smart plan, you can keep surprises (and stress) to a minimum.
How to Get Accurate Estimates: Why Details Matter
As we discussed earlier, it’s easy for remodeling costs to spiral out of control if you don’t get clear numbers. Atlanta experts—like those at Intown Renovations and Sweeten—agree that an accurate estimate always starts with a detailed project scope. So, what should you do?
- Write down exactly what you want: Which rooms, finishes, and features are must-haves?
- Insist on an on-site evaluation. A walkthrough lets contractors spot those hidden issues (think old wiring or moisture damage) before they become budget busters.
- Always get multiple bids. Don’t just take the first contractor’s number—three detailed proposals reveal what’s fair and highlight anything missing (Intown Renovations, Sweeten, Artistic Construction).
Be wary of bids that seem too low. They might skip permit costs or assume ultra-basic finishes, which can cost you more down the road. Atlanta’s reputable pros will break out materials, labor, and management fees, giving you a realistic figure before work starts.
If you want the best fit, spell out your budget and priorities early. That honesty invites creative solutions—like keeping layouts the same or using standard fixtures in secondary spaces. With everyone on the same page, you’re less likely to run into expensive surprises later on.
Ready to set a real-world budget? Let’s walk through exactly what to include beyond the basics—so you’re prepared for every possible twist.
Budgeting for Permits, Surprises, and Contingencies
Building on the need for thorough estimates, you can’t forget the costs that sneak in behind the scenes. Atlanta’s permitting process? It varies wildly—not just by city, but often by zip code (remember Intown Renovations and Sweeten’s earlier advice).
Estimate permit fees at $50 to $200 for simple jobs, but more complex projects in Atlanta proper often jump to $7 per $1,000 spent. Don’t overlook extra charges for each specialty—plumbing, electrical, or HVAC, which can tack on another $75 to $175 per trade. Contractors may charge $300–$1,000 just to handle all this paperwork for you.
Local pros at Elevation Building Co recommend adding a “contingency” to your budget—10% to 20% of your total project cost is a good safety net. Why? Every remodel hits an “uh-oh” moment, whether it’s rotted framing under a shower or a backordered refrigerator. That cushion means you’re not scrambling for cash or making poor last-minute decisions.
Remember, contractor management fees, delivery charges, taxes, and design fees can also pile up. Ask your contractor to spell out management fees and project milestones so you know what triggers each payment. That way, you won’t get blindsided when it’s time to write another check.
Feeling nervous about all those “what-ifs”? The next step will help: knowing exactly which hidden expenses pop up most often and how to plan for them from the start.
Handling Common Unexpected Costs
We mentioned earlier how older homes come with secrets, but there are other unplanned expenses that Atlanta remodelers face all the time. Based on advice from Elevation Building Co, here are the most common ones:
- Temporary Lodging: Major kitchen, bathroom, or full-home remodels can make living at home impossible. If you have pets, work from home, or have young kids, a hotel or short-term rental might be necessary. Prices range from a few nights to several weeks depending on the project timeline and scope.
- Landscaping Restoration: If your remodel involves building an addition, bumping out a room, or installing new utilities, your yard could take a serious beating. Homeowners often underestimate the cost to repair planting beds, sod, or irrigation after heavy equipment is done.
- New Furnishings: Expanding or updating your space might mean your old furniture looks out of place. Many Atlanta homeowners end up budgeting for new sofas, curtains, or even art to match their new rooms. This is especially true for open-concept kitchens or new primary suites.
Extra inspection fees, storage for displaced furniture, and costs related to moving utilities (like a gas line or HVAC ductwork) can also sneak up on you. Planning for these early avoids last-minute panic or unhappy compromises.
Worried these extras will bust your budget? Next, let’s see how Atlanta homeowners cut costs without sacrificing quality—by getting hands-on and strategic about where the money goes.
DIY and Cost-Saving Tactics: Smart Moves for Atlanta Homeowners
Let’s face it—sometimes you need to stretch every dollar. Atlanta contractors and homeowners, like Sara Cowley Homes and Artistic Construction, have seen plenty of ways to keep projects affordable:
- DIY Where You Can: Painting, demo, landscaping, or even hauling debris are all “sweat equity” tasks that can shrink costs fast. Kimberly of Sweeten talked about clients who pitched in, saving thousands and allowing them to spend more on custom kitchen finishes.
- Targeted Updates: Instead of full replacement, consider cabinet resurfacing, swapping out door hardware, or updating just flooring and light fixtures. Resurfacing cabinets or refacing vanities offers a fresh look for a fraction of the price.
- Maintain Layouts: As we mentioned before, keeping kitchens and baths in their original place avoids expensive plumbing or electrical moves. Artistic Construction notes layout preservation is one of the highest-impact, lowest-cost strategies.
- Phase Your Projects: You don’t have to do everything at once. Remodel the kitchen now, the bathroom later, and save up in between. This spreads out costs and keeps stress lower.
Be realistic about your skills and time. If you’re handy, you can cut labor bills; if not, focus your energy on planning and material choices instead. Even small upgrades—like painting or changing light fixtures—make a noticeable difference.
Speaking of material choices, let’s finish by looking at how the things you pick really add up…and where experts say you can save without regret.
Material and Design Choices for Savings
We’ve talked a lot about labor and scope, but what you buy matters just as much. Sara Cowley Homes and HomeAdvisor offer these Atlanta price guides:
- Kitchen Appliances: Entry packages start at $2,200, but luxury bundles can clear $20,000 in a flash. Want reliable but frugal? Go semi-pro mid-tier brands.
- Cabinetry: Custom cabinets cost much more than semi-custom or stock. Artistic Construction and Sweeten say simple shaker cabinets offer a timeless look (and cost far less) than built-to-order masterpieces.
- Countertops: Budget granite or quartz starts at $2,600–$4,000 for an average kitchen. Skip exotic stone or rare slabs—modern engineered options look great and wear well.
- Flooring: Carpet for 1,200 square feet runs $8,000–$13,200 in Atlanta, according to Sara Cowley Homes. Hardwood or luxury vinyl plank gives style while balancing cost and durability.
- Other Swaps: Chrome or brushed nickel faucets cost less but still look sharp. Standard tiles (around $2 per sq ft) perform just fine next to high-end designer picks.
Smart swaps let you focus spending on the features that matter most to your lifestyle—maybe a great shower in the primary bath, or a built-in pantry for your kitchen.
With the right plan, detailed estimates, and a realistic view of your needs versus wants, you can remodel in Atlanta without losing sleep or emptying your bank account. Trust your local experts, compare bids, and don’t forget that contingency—your future self will thank you.
Ready to take the next step? Now you have the tools and insights to run your Atlanta home remodel with confidence, control, and a clear financial plan. Happy renovating!
Let’s wrap up your journey through Atlanta’s remodeling costs with a few essentials. First, Atlanta’s thriving housing market and rich mix of older and newer homes create wide price swings—full home remodels often start at $70–$100 per square foot but can rocket past $500,000 with high-end finishes or major surprises like asbestos or wiring upgrades. Smart planning is your secret weapon: detailed project scopes, multiple contractor bids, and a realistic budget—including at least a 10–20% contingency—will keep your wallet (and sanity) protected.
Real-world cases, like Dexter’s 1950s gut renovation or Kimberly’s farmhouse makeover, prove that careful material and layout choices can deliver dramatic results at every budget. Don’t forget often-overlooked costs like permits, temporary lodging, and new furnishings, and remember that phased projects, targeted updates, or a dash of DIY can make all the difference.
Your dream Atlanta remodel is well within reach. Lean on trusted local experts, stay proactive, and get even more value from your investment. Ready to break ground? Take these insights and build the home you’ve always wanted—without any costly surprises.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you save money by doing parts of your remodel yourself in Atlanta?
Yes, many Atlanta homeowners cut costs with DIY work like painting, demo, or landscaping. Some, like the clients in the 3,200 sq ft farmhouse case, even helped with tasks during their remodel. Just be realistic about your skills—focus on manageable jobs and leave complex work to licensed pros for safety and code reasons.
Can you live at home during a major remodel in Atlanta?
For small updates, it’s often possible to stay put. However, big projects such as full kitchen, bathroom, or second-story remodels may require moving out temporarily. This is especially true if you have young kids, pets, or work from home; dust, noise, and utility disruptions can make daily life tough during construction.
Can you get accurate estimates from contractors before starting?
Absolutely. Insist on an in-person walkthrough and provide a detailed list of your project priorities. Atlanta contractors generally recommend getting at least three written bids, each breaking down labor, materials, permits, and management fees. This helps prevent surprises and leads to a more realistic budget.
Can you phase your remodeling project to control costs?
Yes, phasing is common and works well in Atlanta. Many homeowners remodel in stages—such as updating the kitchen first and saving bathrooms or basements for later. This approach spreads expenses out over time, letting you manage cash flow and adjust plans if priorities change.
Can you expect your remodeling budget to change once work begins?
It’s likely your budget will shift somewhat. Unexpected issues—like old wiring, hidden water damage, or material delays—can add costs. That’s why local pros suggest a 10–20% contingency, so you’re ready for surprises without having to make rushed decisions or halt the project.
Can you use lower-cost materials and still get a stylish result?
Definitely! In kitchens and baths, choosing semi-custom cabinets, mid-level appliances, or standard tile can keep your project affordable. For example, granite counters start at $2,600 and carpet ranges from $8,000–$13,200 for 1,200 sq ft in Atlanta. Many homeowners find creative finishes that look great without breaking the bank. Add to Chat
No Comment! Be the first one.