Thinking About a Major Home Renovation? Let’s Talk Strategy First.
Before you start swinging hammers or picking out tile, there’s one thing every smart homeowner needs: answers. A successful renovation starts with the right questions. NEPA Builders is here to help you ask (and answer) them. From budgets to building permits, we know the details that save you time, money, and unnecessary stress. As a trusted local contractor with years of experience, full licensing, and insurance, you can count on us to turn your vision into reality, safely and smoothly.
1. How Long Will a Major Renovation Actually Take?
The truth is, home renovations aren’t one-size-fits-all. Timelines vary based on the scope and complexity of the work. That said, you can expect most extensive remodeling projects to take anywhere from two to seven months. A full basement transformation typically spans three to four months, while whole-home overhauls often stretch between five to seven months. Your exact timeline will depend on the details: design choices, structural changes, permit approvals, and more.
2. If We Hire You, When Can the Project Start?
Great question! And the honest answer is: it depends. Once you sign the contract, we can usually kick things off within 30 to 90 days. Why the range? Because successful renovations start long before demolition day. First, we collaborate on design to bring your vision to life. Then comes permitting, which can take time depending on your local jurisdiction. While that’s in motion, we order materials and begin coordinating schedules with the electricians, plumbers, carpenters, and other tradespeople needed to complete the job. Rushing can cause a host of problems. Every step is critical to keeping your project running smoothly and on time.
3. How Much Will the Renovation Cost?
Renovation pricing isn’t just about square footage; it’s about what lies beneath. On average, you can expect to invest between $150 and $250 per square foot. That means a 1,000-square-foot project may cost anywhere from $150,000 to $250,000. But here’s the catch: the final number often depends on how many steps we need to take backward before we can move forward. Tearing out outdated or damaged materials, correcting structural issues, or addressing surprises behind the walls can all impact your budget. The more we uncover, the more time and resources it takes to build the space you truly want.
4. Should I Set Aside Extra Money for Surprise Expenses?
Absolutely! Building a buffer into your renovation budget is one of the smartest moves you can make. Once demolition begins, it’s not uncommon to uncover hidden problems like termite damage, water intrusion, or even asbestos. And beyond the unexpected, many homeowners decide mid-project to upgrade fixtures, swap out countertops, or tackle often-overlooked items like landscaping or exterior finishes. To stay on track without stress, we recommend setting aside an extra 10–15% of your total budget to cover surprises and spontaneous upgrades.
5. Are You Licensed & Insured?
Yes, we’re fully licensed and insured. That means we meet all state and local requirements, understand building codes, and carry the coverage needed to protect you and your home. Hiring an unlicensed or uninsured contractor can put you at serious financial risk, so always check credentials before moving forward.
6. Can I Stay Home During The Renovation?
It depends on the scope of your project. “Minor” renovations typically allow you to stay home, while whole-house projects usually require temporary relocation. Good contractors minimize dust and disruption by creating designated work zones and cleaning up daily.
7. What Is Your Process From Start to Finish?
We follow a clear, step-by-step process to ensure your renovation is smooth, efficient, and stress-free. It all begins with an initial consultation, followed by in-depth planning and design. Once you’re happy with the proposal, we move into pre-construction prep: scheduling, permits, and ordering materials, before breaking ground. Throughout the build, we conduct quality checks to make sure everything meets the highest standards. Want to see exactly how it works?
Watch this quick video overview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TKQ0XDPUTaU
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Your home isn’t just where life happens; it’s part of your family’s legacy. That’s why choosing the right contractor matters. At NEPA Builders, we combine proven processes with expert craftsmanship to protect your investment, minimize stress, and deliver results you’ll love for years to come.
Let’s bring your vision to life. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.