Extreme Makeover Home Edition—Finding the Perfect Full Home Remodeler
Is a Full Home Remodel Right for You?
Finding the right full home remodeler can transform your outdated house into the dream home you've always wanted. A full home renovation involves completely restoring an entire house from top to bottom, updating everything from kitchens and bathrooms to flooring, electrical, and plumbing systems.
What a Full Home Remodeler Provides:
- Complete home change services
- Design and construction expertise
- Project management from start to finish
- Permits and regulatory compliance
- Quality craftsmanship and materials
- Timeline: 4-10 months average
- Cost: $70-$190 per square foot
The benefits of working with a professional full home remodeler are significant. According to industry research, a well-executed remodel can increase your home's market value while improving functionality, energy efficiency, and overall aesthetics. You get to stay in your established neighborhood instead of moving to new construction areas, and as one industry expert noted, "moving is quite likely the most stressful of all life events."
Key advantages include:
- Increased home value- Newly renovated homes are far more appealing to buyers
- Improved lifestyle- Modern, functional spaces that fit your needs
- Cost savings- Generally cheaper than demolishing and rebuilding
- Neighborhood preservation- Stay in your preferred location
The average cost ranges from $190,000 to $260,000 for homes between 1,500-2,000 square feet. High-return projects like kitchen remodels ($14,600-$40,000) and bathroom renovations ($6,700-$28,000) can recoup 50-95% of their cost when done properly.
I'm Mike Martinez AHR, owner of Accountable Home Remodeling, and I've helped countless Denver families transform their homes through comprehensive renovation projects. With my expertise as a full home remodeler, I understand that this investment requires the right partner who delivers on-time, on-budget results with clear communication throughout the process.
The Blueprint: Planning Your Whole Home Renovation
A whole-house remodel is an exciting undertaking that needs a solid game plan. As your full home remodeler, we know successful renovations start with careful planning and a clear vision of what you want to achieve.
The planning phase is where we get to know you and your dreams for your home. We'll discuss your design goals, realistic timelines, and how your budget aligns with your vision. This is about creating a roadmap that turns your current house into the home you've always wanted.
We believe that taking time upfront to plan properly saves you time, money, and stress later. Most importantly, it ensures your finished home will be everything you hoped for and more. The typical timeline for a full home renovation runs 4 to 10 months, depending on the scope of your project.
For more information on how we can help you plan your dream renovation, please visit our Services page.
Defining Your Vision and Scope
Before we begin, we need to understand what success looks like for you. Are you planning to stay in this home long-term, or are you thinking about personal use vs. resale value? This makes a huge difference in our project approach.
If you're creating your forever home, we can focus on features that bring you daily joy – like that perfect reading nook or a kitchen island that becomes the heart of family gatherings. But if you're thinking about selling in a few years, we'll balance your personal wishes with improvements that appeal to future buyers.
Your home should feel like you , so we spend time understanding your lifestyle, family needs, and personal style. Perhaps you're dreaming of open-concept living or modernizing a historic Denver home while keeping its original charm.
We always start with creating a detailed wish list together. This might include custom built-ins that maximize storage, or updating that cramped galley kitchen into a space where you actually want to cook. The beauty of a full home renovation is that we can address all those little things that have been bothering you for years.
Every family is different, and every home has its own personality. We work with you to understand not just what you want, but why you want it. This collaborative approach ensures your finished home isn't just beautiful – it's perfectly suited to how you actually live. Check out our comprehensive Full Home Remodeling Guide for more detailed information about this process.
The Step-by-Step Remodeling Process
A full home renovation might seem overwhelming, but we break it down into clear, manageable steps. Here's how we guide you through the journey from planning to project completion:
Planning & Design is where we finalize every detail of your vision. We'll create detailed plans, help you select materials, and make sure everything fits your budget and timeline. This phase is crucial – it's much easier to make changes on paper than after construction starts.
Permitting comes next, and yes, it can be a bit tedious. We handle all the building permits and steer local regulations so you don't have to. This step can take a few weeks, but it's essential for keeping your project legal and safe.
Demolition is often the most exciting part for homeowners – finally, those outdated features are gone! We carefully remove everything that's being replaced while protecting the parts of your home that are staying.
Framing creates the skeleton of your new spaces. New walls, doorways, and structural elements are built according to your approved plans. This is where you really start to see your vision taking shape.
The rough-ins phase involves installing all the behind-the-walls systems. HVAC ductwork goes in first, followed by electrical wiring for outlets, switches, and lighting. Plumbing rough-ins include all the pipes for water supply and drainage. These systems are the backbone of your home's functionality.
Drywall & taping comes after all the rough-ins are inspected and approved. Walls are insulated, then covered with drywall and finished smooth. This is when your spaces really start to look like actual rooms.
Painting & finishing brings everything together. Walls get their final color, flooring is installed, cabinets go in, and countertops are fitted. This phase is incredibly satisfying – you can finally see your new home coming to life.
Project completion includes installing all fixtures, appliances, and final touches. We do a thorough walkthrough with you to make sure every detail meets your expectations. We don't consider the job done until you're absolutely thrilled with the results.
The entire process typically takes 4 to 10 months, depending on the size and complexity of your project. We manage every aspect so you can focus on the fun parts – like picking out that perfect light fixture or choosing between two gorgeous tile options.
Safety, Permits, and Regulations
Safety is paramount. As your full home remodeler, we take full responsibility for navigating the complex world of building permits, zoning laws, and safety regulations.
Building permits are required for most major renovations to ensure your project meets local building codes and safety standards. We handle all the paperwork and coordinate with local authorities in Denver, Arvada, Lakewood, and throughout the metro area.
Zoning laws dictate what can be built or changed on your property. These rules vary by location and can affect everything from how high you can build to how close additions can be to property lines. We know these regulations inside and out, so you don't have to worry about compliance issues.
Contractor licensing requirements vary across Colorado. While the state only licenses electricians and plumbers, many cities and counties have their own licensing requirements. We maintain all necessary licenses and carry comprehensive general liability and workers' compensation insurance. This protects you from potential problems during construction.
Asbestos awareness is crucial, especially in older homes. Asbestos can be found in insulation, ceiling tiles, and other building materials. We're trained to identify and safely handle these materials when they're present.
Homes built before 1978 often contain lead-based paint, which requires special handling during renovation. We follow strict EPA guidelines for testing and safe removal. The EPA provides excellent information on how to Protect Your Family From Sources of Lead.
We handle all these safety considerations so you can focus on the exciting parts of your renovation. Your family's health and safety are our top priority, and we never cut corners when it comes to doing things the right way.
Crunching the Numbers: Budgeting for Your Dream Home
Let's talk about the elephant in the room – money. Understanding the financial side of a full home remodel doesn't have to be scary. Think of it as investing in your future happiness and your home's value. We believe in complete transparency when it comes to costs, helping you make smart decisions every step of the way.
The cost of a whole-house remodel varies significantly based on your home's size, the materials you choose, and how complex the structural changes are. As your full home remodeler, we work hard to stick to your budget and finish on time, while preparing for those unexpected surprises that construction projects sometimes throw at us.
For a deeper dive into how we manage budgets and deliver value, check out our insights on House Remodels.
Understanding the Average Costs
Here's the reality – renovation costs can feel overwhelming at first glance. A full home renovation typically ranges from $10 to $150 per square foot, but that's a pretty wide range. In the Denver Metro Area, most homeowners spend between $190,000 and $260,000 for a complete renovation of a 1,500 to 2,000 square foot home, which works out to about $70 to $190 per square foot.
The most expensive parts of any whole-home remodel are usually the kitchen and bathrooms. These spaces require intricate plumbing work, electrical updates, custom cabinetry, and high-end fixtures. It's like the difference between changing a light bulb and rewiring your entire electrical system – one is simple, the other requires serious expertise.
Here's what you can expect to invest in different areas of your home:
| Room Type | Average Remodel Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Kitchen | $14,600 to $40,000 |
| Bathroom | $6,700 to $28,000 |
| Basement | $10,000 to $50,000+ |
| Living Room | $5,000 to $10,000 |
| Bedroom | $1,500 to $5,500 |
| Laundry Room | About $6,000 |
| Office | $5,000 or more |
Don't forget about the behind-the-scenes work that makes everything function properly. Electrical and plumbing work can be costly, especially if your home needs extensive re-wiring or new pipes. Adding a foundation or making major structural changes also adds to the investment.
We provide a detailed, phased remodeling process that includes a preliminary budget proposal and our "Guaranteed Price + No Surprise Contract" after you've made your design selections. This means you'll always know exactly where your money is going – no unpleasant surprises later.
Maximizing Your Return on Investment (ROI)
A full home renovation isn't just an expense – it's a smart investment that can significantly boost your home's market value and appeal. While the joy of living in your dream home is priceless, we also consider the potential return on investment for various projects.
Some home remodel projects offer excellent returns, potentially recouping 95% or more of their cost. Upgrading exterior finishes and enhancing curb appeal contribute significantly to your home's value and first impressions.
Mid-range return projects, which can return 50% to 95% of their cost, include minor kitchen remodeling, window replacement, and midrange bathroom remodeling. These improvements not only make your home more functional and beautiful but also more energy-efficient, leading to long-term savings on utility bills.
A complete custom home renovation brings your entire home up to current standards, making it far more appealing to future buyers. There's tremendous appeal in a turn-key purchase where the house is ready to move into without needing any work.
We encourage you to explore resources like the Cost vs. Value Report to understand typical ROI for projects in your area. Our goal is to help you create a home that you absolutely love and that also represents a sound financial investment for your future.
Assembling Your Dream Team: How to Choose a Full Home Remodeler
Choosing the right full home remodeler is perhaps the most critical decision in your renovation journey. This isn't just about finding someone who can swing a hammer; it's about finding a partner who understands your vision, communicates transparently, and manages the entire project with expertise and integrity.
Think of it this way: you're about to invite someone into your home for months at a time. They'll be making decisions that affect your daily life, your family's comfort, and your biggest financial investment. That's a big deal, and it deserves careful consideration.
We understand that finding the right full home remodeler can feel overwhelming. That's why we emphasize transparency, communication, and a client-centric approach from day one. Your home is a significant investment, and you deserve a team that treats it with the care and professionalism it deserves.
We invite you to learn more about why we are one of the most trusted Full Home Renovation Companies in the Denver Metro Area.
Key Qualities of a Top-Tier Full Home Remodeler
When you're looking for a full home remodeler, certain qualities separate the pros from the pretenders. Experience matters tremendously. A company with extensive experience, like our team with over two decades in the Denver area, has seen it all. We've encountered every type of challenge and know how to solve problems before they become headaches for you.
Licensing and insurance aren't just bureaucratic boxes to check—they're your protection. While Colorado only requires state licensing for electricians and plumbers, we hold all required local municipal licenses and carry comprehensive general liability and workers' compensation insurance. This means you're protected from liability, and we operate legally and ethically.
The design-build model is something we're passionate about. Instead of juggling separate designers and contractors, we handle everything from initial design and architectural planning to construction. This streamlines communication, improves collaboration, and often leads to better cost efficiency because the construction team is involved from the earliest stages.
Transparent communication is where many contractors fall short, but it's where we shine. We keep you informed every step of the way with regular updates and accessible staff who are always available for your questions. We don't view our clients as just a number—you're family to us.
Detailed contracts protect everyone involved. Everything should be in writing, clearly outlining the scope of work, timeline, payment schedule, and any warranties. We offer a "Guaranteed Price + No Surprise Contract" model, giving you peace of mind that there won't be any unwelcome financial surprises.
A quality portfolio speaks volumes about a contractor's capabilities. When you review past projects, you can see their craftsmanship, design capabilities, and ability to deliver exceptional results. It's like looking at their report card.
Finally, a robust project management system is essential. We have a dedicated project manager overseeing the entire process from planning to completion. This ensures efficient scheduling, material sourcing, and coordination of skilled tradespeople like electricians, plumbers, and drywallers.
We pride ourselves on being Full Service Home Remodelers committed to these high standards.
The Vetting Process for Your Ideal Full Home Remodeler
Finding the perfect match for your home renovation requires doing your homework. Start by checking reviews and asking for references. Look for online reviews on Google, Houzz, and Yelp, but don't stop there. Ask the remodeler for references from past clients and actually call them. Ask about their experience, communication quality, and overall satisfaction.
Understanding the contract is crucial—don't just skim it. Read every detail carefully. Make sure it includes a detailed scope of work, payment schedule, timeline, and specifics on change orders. Understand any legally mandated back-out clauses or "cooling off" periods. Our "Guaranteed Price + No Surprise Contract" eliminates unexpected costs, and our commitment to a two-year satisfaction warranty gives you long-term peace of mind.
Discussing the communication plan upfront prevents frustration later. How often will you receive updates? Who is your primary point of contact? We believe in transparent communication throughout the entire process, ensuring you're always in the loop about what's happening in your home.
Inquiring about post-project support is equally important. What kind of warranty or guarantee do they offer on their work? A reputable full home remodeler stands behind their craftsmanship long after the final walkthrough.
Here are some essential questions to ask any potential contractor:
- Can you provide references from recent full home renovation projects?
- Are you licensed and insured for work in our specific area (like Westminster, Thornton, or Northglenn)?
- How do you handle project management and communication throughout the renovation?
- What is your approach to unexpected issues or budget overruns?
- Do you offer a warranty on your work?
- Can you provide a detailed, written proposal with a clear breakdown of costs?
- What is your estimated timeline for a project of our scope?
We believe that by asking these questions and thoroughly vetting your options, you'll feel confident choosing a partner that aligns with your values and goals. After all, this is your home we're talking about—it deserves nothing less than the best.
Frequently Asked Questions about Full Home Remodels
As a full home remodeler with over two decades of experience in the Denver Metro Area, I hear the same questions from homeowners time and time again. Let me share the answers to the most common concerns that come up during our initial consultations.
Is it cheaper to renovate an existing home or build a new one?
In nearly every situation, renovating your existing home is significantly cheaper than building from scratch. When you work with a full home remodeler, you're taking advantage of the existing structure, foundation, and basic framework that's already in place.
Think about it this way: you're not paying for new land, you're not starting from zero with permits and site preparation, and you're reusing much of the home's "bones." The existing foundation alone can save you tens of thousands of dollars compared to new construction.
The only exception might be if your home has major structural issues that would require essentially rebuilding from the ground up. But even then, most structural problems can be addressed more cost-effectively than starting over completely.
Plus, there's something to be said for staying in the neighborhood you love. Moving to find new construction often means leaving behind the mature trees, established community, and location you chose your home for in the first place.
What is the most expensive part of a full home remodel?
Without question, kitchens and bathrooms are where you'll see the biggest numbers on your renovation budget. These spaces are like the engines of your home - they require extensive plumbing work, electrical upgrades, and often involve moving or adding new utility lines.
Plumbing work can be particularly costly because it often means opening up walls, rerouting pipes, and ensuring everything meets current building codes. The same goes for electrical work, especially in older homes that might need complete rewiring to handle modern appliances and lighting.
Custom cabinetry is another major expense, particularly in kitchens where you're looking at both upper and lower cabinets, islands, and specialty storage solutions. When you add high-end appliances into the mix, costs can climb quickly.
Don't forget about foundation work and structural changes. If you're opening up walls to create that open-concept living space, or if we find foundation issues during the renovation, these can become significant budget items.
The good news? These are also the areas that typically provide the best return on investment and have the biggest impact on your daily life.
Can I live in my house during the renovation?
This is probably the question I get asked most often, and the answer is: it depends on the scope of your project. For a true full home remodel that involves major structural changes, extensive demolition, or work in multiple core areas simultaneously, I usually recommend finding temporary housing.
Here's why living through a full renovation can be challenging. Dust and noise are constant companions during construction - we're talking about demolition, power tools, and heavy equipment that start early in the morning. Safety considerations are real too, with exposed wiring, open walls, and construction materials throughout the house.
You might also lose access to essential utilities like water, electricity, or heating for extended periods. Imagine trying to get ready for work when your bathroom is torn apart and the kitchen is a construction zone.
However, we can often work with you on phased construction if your project allows for it. We might tackle one floor at a time or focus on non-essential rooms first, allowing you to maintain some livable space.
During our initial consultation, we'll discuss logistics with your contractor- that's us! - to set up temporary living zones if you choose to stay. We'll establish clear boundaries about off-limits areas, ensure you have access to essential utilities, and create a communication plan so you know exactly what to expect each day.
Your comfort and safety are our top priorities, and we'll work together to find the best solution for your specific situation and family needs.
Conclusion: Bringing Your Vision to Life
Undertaking a full home renovation is one of the most exciting journeys you can start on as a homeowner. It's about more than just updating spaces—it's about creating a home that truly reflects who you are and how you want to live. After walking through the planning process, understanding the investment involved, and choosing the right partner, you're ready to transform your house into the sanctuary you've always dreamed of.
Planning is everything. From defining your vision to understanding the step-by-step process, careful planning sets the foundation for success. Whether you're dreaming of open-concept living spaces or modernizing a historic home while preserving its character, having a clear roadmap makes all the difference.
Budgeting wisely protects your investment. Understanding the costs involved—from the $70-$190 per square foot range to room-specific expenses—helps you make informed decisions. This isn't just an expense; it's an investment in your home's value and your family's quality of life.
Choosing the right partner changes everything. The difference between a stressful renovation and a rewarding experience often comes down to working with a skilled full home remodeler who values transparent communication, quality craftsmanship, and your peace of mind.
At Accountable Home Remodeling, we understand that your home is more than just walls and floors—it's where life happens. Based in the Denver Metro Area, we've had the privilege of serving families in Broomfield, Westminster, Thornton, Northglenn, Arvada, Boulder, Denver, Longmont, Aurora, and Lakewood. Our mission is simple: renewing lives by renewing the home.
We believe in taking the stress out of home renovations through our commitment to quality work, honest communication, and personalized designs that fit your unique lifestyle. From that first consultation where we listen to your dreams to the final walkthrough where we hand you the keys to your transformed space, we're with you every step of the way.
Your forever home is waiting. Let's create something beautiful together.
