A whole-house remodel is a significant undertaking, but with proper planning and care, it can also be an exciting one. Whether you want to finally realize your dream home, modernize outdated spaces, or boost property value ready for a sale, it’s essential to understand potential costs so you can plan accordingly. In this article, we guide you through current pricing, including what influences costs and how to budget wisely, so you can enjoy a successful home transformation without overspending.
National and Regional Cost Ranges in 2025
The cost to remodel an entire property can vary a lot depending on the scope of the remodel, the size of the home, and its location. Nationally, full remodels tend to range from roughly $18,000 at the low end to $600,000 and more at the high end.
Home size is a crucial factor. A house of 1,200 sq ft will range from the abovementioned $18,000 at the low-end (cosmetic renovations) to $72,000 at the mid-range (layout changes but not complete gutting), to $180,000 at the high-end (significant changes).
For a house size of 2,500 sq ft, this would amount to roughly $37,500 at the low end, $150,000 at the mid-range, and $375,000 at the high end.
For a larger home of 4,000 sq ft, you’d be looking at $60,000 at the low-end, $240,000 at the mid-range, and $600,000+ at the high-end.
Location also plays a key role in costs.
Coastal areas, including those in Florida, generally have higher costs due to higher labor wages, increased demand, stricter building codes (especially in hurricane-prone regions), and often more expensive material transportation.
Costs are also significantly higher in densely populated urban centers, when compared to rural locations, due to increased demand for skilled labor, higher overhead for contractors, and more expensive permits and logistics.
Then there are the higher-cost areas and lower-cost regions. In New York City, the cost would be approximately $100 to $250 per square foot, whereas in the Midwest and South, it’d likely be lower.
Major Cost Drivers for a Full House Remodel
Several factors influence the cost of a whole-house remodel. Some are obvious, while others sometimes get overlooked.
The size of your home is an obvious one. Larger homes require more materials, labor, and time, which naturally increases costs. A 4,000 sq ft home requires more modification than one half its size.
“Location matters. In coastal areas or upscale communities, local labor rates, permitting fees, and building code requirements can drive up costs significantly,” says David Wherry, President of Progressive Design Build. “Remodeling in Bonita Springs, for instance, is likely to cost more than in a rural inland town.”
Material and finish quality are also important factors. High-end options—such as custom cabinetry and imported tile—naturally cost more than builder-grade materials. What you choose will ultimately depend on your budget.
Likewise, your scope of work is also essential to consider. Surface-level cosmetic updates cost far less than complete gut renovations or projects that require structural changes.
The age and condition of your home can’t be ignored. Older homes often need electrical, plumbing, or HVAC updates just to meet current codes. They may also require attention to issues such as mold, asbestos, and outdated layouts.
Average Cost Per Square Foot
On average, whole-house remodeling costs in Southwest Florida range from $15 to $60 per square foot, with high-end renovations reaching $150–$300+ per square foot. These figures can vary widely based on your home’s existing condition, material selections, and the extent of structural or layout changes involved.
Here’s a breakdown to help set expectations:
Cosmetic Remodel: $30–$60 per square foot
Think of this as a surface refresh—new paint, updated flooring, modern lighting, and minor repairs. These upgrades improve aesthetics without altering the layout or plumbing.
Mid-Range Remodel: $60–$150 per square foot
At this level, you’ll see more impactful changes, including kitchen and bathroom upgrades, layout reconfigurations, and moderate electrical or plumbing work.
High-End Remodel: $150–$300+ per square foot
Full-scale renovations often involve moving walls, reworking mechanical systems, and incorporating premium finishes and custom craftsmanship—transforming your home from the inside out.
Before moving forward, it’s important to define your project goals and priorities. A trusted design-build partner can help you weigh your options and guide you toward smart investments for your property and lifestyle.
Budgeting Strategies and Hidden Expenses
Setting a realistic budget for a full house remodel is vital. But it can be difficult without expert assistance. It’s easy to imagine that creating a solid budget is about listing materials and calculating labor. Yet good budgeting is also about anticipating the unexpected.
A smart starting point is to include a 10–20% contingency buffer. This safety net helps cover surprise expenses, such as unavoidable delays, structural issues, or mid-project design changes.
Beyond the obvious costs, several hidden expenses can catch homeowners off guard. Permit fees and inspections, for example, vary by municipality and can add thousands to your total. If you need to relocate temporarily, consider the cost of short-term housing or storage for your belongings.
“Design fees can catch people off guard. In traditional remodels, these are often separate from construction costs and can vary widely,” says David Wherry. “With design-build firms like Progressive, however, design fees are clearly outlined in a dedicated design agreement at the beginning of the process. This agreement covers planning, drawings, and material selections—providing clarity and precision before construction even begins.”
View Progressive’s Whole House Remodel portfolio
Cost Comparison – DIY vs. Hiring a Contractor
When you see the price of a professional remodel, it can be tempting to take the DIY route—especially if you or a relative is handy. But any potential savings from DIY work often come with trade-offs in time, stress, and risk.
“You can cut labor costs by doing it yourself, but you also face making unintentional code violations and costly mistakes that require professional intervention at a later date,” adds David Wherry. “It can also be dangerous, with even a small error in structural work, electrical systems, or plumbing leading to an unsafe environment that will need to be fixed by experts.”
When you work with professionals from the beginning, such as a licensed general contractor or design-build firm, they bring experience, streamlined coordination, and proper permit knowledge. While the upfront cost is higher, you gain project oversight, quality assurance, and peace of mind.
Design-build firms, such as Progressive Design Build, combine design and construction into a single process, reducing miscommunication and minimizing costly change orders. When you work with an experienced and dynamic team like ours, you’re investing in expert planning, clear timelines, and a smoother experience from start to finish.
While DIY projects may be suitable for minor cosmetic updates with minimal structural changes, a whole-house remodel typically benefits from professional execution, especially when long-term value is a priority.
Making Informed Remodeling Decisions
It’s important to be knowledgeable of the key factors that influence pricing in a home remodel and the hidden expenses that can arise before embarking on a renovation project. This will ensure you’re better equipped to make informed decisions and avoid unpleasant surprises.
If you’re considering a remodel, now’s the time to gather estimates and speak with a qualified contractor who understands your vision.
Luxury Home Remodeling in Southwest Florida
Progressive is an award-winning design-build luxury remodeling firm founded in 1989 that serves Southwest Florida. Whether you’re looking to enhance an indoor or outdoor space – or create a new one – we’re the team that can get the job done.
Progressive Design Build is a trusted expert in custom home remodeling, from kitchens and bathrooms to whole houses, condos, and outdoor living projects. You can rely on our seamless processes, advanced technology, and exceptional customer service to deliver on-time and on-budget results.
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