How much will remodeling cost?

Your remodeling project's cost is greatly affected by the types of 'finish out' material you choose. Flooring, cabinets, countertops and even bathtubs are considered 'finish out' items. The cost of these materials can vary by several thousands of dollars. A vinyl floor will be less expensive than most types of wood, and custom cabinets will be more expensive than standard ones. By balancing the durability of a material with its cost, you can determine which product is the best for your home. Another expense of remodeling is the permits that your city may require for remodeling projects. Your contractor's fee may include this cost, so be sure to ask him. A good rule of thumb is that most contractors earn about 30 percent of what the materials cost. This fee pays for their time, expertise, workers and other related expenses. Compare the bids of several contractors. You may want to work with a contractor that submits a mid-priced bid. Be wary of extremely low prices because they may indicate that the bid doesn't include all the necessary costs. Make sure you receive a written bid that contains all prices as well as a description of the work to be done.