How much will my home renovation cost?

Let’s Tackle This Loaded Question: What Does a Kitchen Renovation Really Cost?

Home renovation costs swing wildly depending on your choices, taste, and just how deep your love for quartz countertops runs. Lucky for you, there are some solid rules of thumb to follow to keep your budget (and sanity) intact. Let’s break it down with a hypothetical kitchen remodel in Maryland (because MD is notorious for higher costs—thanks, economy).

Step 1: Define Your Scope

Scope is everything. Get detailed. Think CSI-level detailed but for cabinets, flooring, and backsplash. Now let’s break this beast into bite-sized chunks:

1. Demo: Out with the Old

Cost: $600–$1,000+

DIY? Sure, but are you emotionally ready for drywall dust in your soul?

Hiring Help: Day labor runs $200–$250 per person, per day. Two people = $400–$500. Tack on $200–$250 for dump runs because your kitchen trash isn’t glamorous.

Pro Tip: Awkward spaces or oversized kitchens = more $$$. Variables are the worst, I know.

2. Design: Because Pinterest Boards Aren’t a Plan

Cost: $1,500–$3,000 (or FREE if you hire me—just saying).

Professional interior designers save you time, stress, and budget heartbreak.

Trust me, my designs are the budget hero you didn’t know you needed.

3. Cabinets & Install: Puzzle Pieces with a Price Tag

Cost: $4,500–$10,000

Cabinets: Decent-grade plywood, soft-close beauties run $350 per piece. For an average kitchen, budget $4,500–$7,000.

Install: Add $1,500—because someone needs to be a genius at spacing, leveling, and Tetris.

4. Countertops: Where the Magic Happens

Cost: $3,500–$6,000

Quartz: $67–$76/sq. ft. (my go-to—it’s durable and pretty).

Granite/Marble: $40–$50/sq. ft. (classic but higher maintenance).

Quartzite & Soapstone: Gorgeous but pricey—skip it unless you’ve got $$$ to burn.

Sink: Usually included with countertop install. Always check with your supplier.

5. Flooring: Fix It or Nix It

Cost: $2,000–$5,000

Whether you’re repairing, replacing, or filling gaps, budget at least $2,000. Material type makes a big difference.

6. Trim & Paint: The Details That Matter

Cost: $2,000–$3,000

Toe kicks, crown molding, baseboards—all the things you didn’t think about.

Got painted cabinets? Match the trim. Walls need touch-ups? Add paint costs.

7. Backsplash: The Jewelry of the Kitchen

Cost: $2,000

Tile: $1,000 for materials.

Labor: $1,000 for a standard kitchen. Want custom? Prepare your wallet.

8. Electrical & Plumbing: Moving Stuff Isn’t Cheap

Cost: $3,000–$8,000

Basic Adjustments: Around $3,000.

New Layout: Budget closer to $8,000 or more. This one’s a wild card.

9. Appliances: Because Microwaves Count

Cost: $2,000–$4,000+

Basic Package: $2,000 for stainless steel essentials.

Upgraded Pretty Ones: $3,500–$4,000+. High-end options will blow your budget faster than you can say “smart fridge.”

10. General Contractor: Do You Want to Herd Cats?

Cost: 15%–20% of total job cost

If you’re lining up every subcontractor yourself, congrats, you saved $$$. If not, a GC will take the stress—and a cut of the total.

Bonus Costs You Might Forget:

Lighting Fixtures: Budget $500–$2,000 for modern or custom lights.

Permits: Average $500–$1,500, depending on your location.

Temporary Kitchen Setup: Eating out while your kitchen is in shambles can add up. Budget $500–$1,000.

Contingency Fund: Always add 10–15% to your budget for the unexpected (because it’s renovation—there’s always an unexpected).

The Bottom Line

A basic kitchen remodel in Maryland might cost $25,000–$50,000+, depending on your choices and space. For a fancier remodel or custom work, budget closer to $70,000+. It’s a slippery slope from “just new cabinets” to “my kitchen looks like a magazine cover.”

Pro Tip: Define your scope, hire the right people, and plan for contingencies. Oh, and remember to enjoy the process—your new kitchen will be worth it!