Latest news with #homeRenovation
CBS News
a day ago
- Business
- CBS News
Tariffs are pushing remodeling costs up. Here are some ways to save money.
How tariffs are reshaping the cost of remodeling this summer Tariffs are pushing up the cost of materials that are frequently used in home renovation projects, leading some homeowners to reconsider fixing up their residences. Suppliers of materials, including lumber, steel and aluminum, have already hiked prices for builders. Sixty percent of homebuilders say suppliers have either already raised prices or intend to, according to data from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and Wells Fargo's April 2025 Housing Market Index. They attribute the price hikes to the Trump administration's sweeping levies on the U.S.'s trade partners. Extra costs for materials can add up quickly, leading to a typical price increase of around $10,000 per home renovation project, according to the NAHB. Pre-ordering materials, before prices rise, is one way to save on roofing supplies such as shingles, according to Connecticut-based builder David Perotti, founder of Fine Home Contracting. He told CBS News that he saved a "few thousand dollars" on behalf of a client by ordering the roofing shingles early. Most materials that are used to build homes in the U.S. are imported, Perotti explained. For example, one-quarter of the country's available lumber supply comes from Canada, and could be subject to a 15% levy. Steel and aluminum are integral to building roofs, homes' plumbing systems, electrical equipment and HVAC systems. Tariffs of 50% on steel and aluminum took effect earlier this month and can apply to everything from coil roofing nails to metal flashing used to prevent leaks. Perotti's advice to homeowners looking for a refresh is to press pause on purchasing new appliances, and opt for a fresh paint job, which can go a long way toward making a home look new again. "If you were to do one project, painting is usually really nice to freshen things up," he told CBS News. Perotti is also urging his clients to budget up to an additional 30% for extra, tariff-related costs on materials, particularly those that can go into remodeling bathrooms. Another tip is to work with materials suppliers to lock in prices when possible, even before materials become available. As far as repairs go, Perotti's advice is to prioritize fixing exterior damage, which can quickly lead to a home's degradation and cause more problems.
CNET
a day ago
- CNET
If You're Looking to Remodel Your Home, I Found This AI Tool Useful for Inspiration. What to Know
My dream home is picturesque and awe-inducing; minimalistic yet intentional design; and squeaky-clean. Whenever I have a spare moment, I like to imagine it. And now, artificial intelligence can help with putting an image to my hopes -- like a freshly designed bathroom. I was recently spending time in the Bay Area, in an Airbnb located in a three-story 1910s home tucked away in the corner of the second floor. As a digital nomad, I've spent many nights in various Airbnbs, from last-minute stays to specific design-focused choices. I was prepared for this apartment to meet only my basic needs, but I was still underwhelmed by the bathroom design and overwhelmed by its fluorescent lighting. Mainly from curiosity to see what it could do, I tested out whether you could genuinely use AI to get started on your home renovations. What is Renovate AI? Renovate AI is an app that uses AI and generative models to create design-driven worlds. For me, navigating to its site felt like entering a very specific corner of SimsNation, built for architecture and interior design enthusiasts and experts. Renovate AI has a free plan, and paid plans range from $13 to $99 per month. Since I planned to redesign only one space, I didn't miss out by not upgrading. However, if you're interested in interacting with the site beyond a trial run and plan on seriously using Renovate AI to help with ideas for more than one room, a paid plan is necessary to get the most out of the tool. After spending far too long staring at the moving blob on the homepage -- somewhere between a trance experience and an art therapy session -- I began the process of redesigning my temporary bathroom. The original, underwhelming bathroom. Carly Quellman/CNET The AI renovation process Once I signed up and signed in, I toggled over to the Bathroom image as part of the Residential tab. (There are Exterior and Commercial tabs, too.) After a couple of attempts at capturing the entire space, I was able to upload the image of my Airbnb bathroom to the site. From here, I could decide the extent of my redesign, including Tweak, Enhance, Renovate and Transform. Since I was on the free plan, I had the option of using Renovate or Transform once before needing to upgrade. Renovate includes style themes and changes to layout, and it gives your space major furniture updates in hopes of crafting a fresh, new ambiance. Transform provides complete interior reinventions and provides structural modifications and design shifts that create an entirely new living environment. I stuck to Renovate. From here, there's an option to choose which room type you're redesigning, or you can have AI auto-detect based on the details within your image. I was excited about the next step, which is where you can add the style influences that artificial intelligence will use as a template for the redesign. I chose Japandi (Japanese mixed with Scandinavian), Zen and Urban styles. I imagined a bathroom design that oozed warmth, simplicity and refinement. The last three steps involve deciding if you'd like to preserve any objects from your photos, and choosing a color tone and descriptors to influence the AI-operated outcome. I added descriptors like minimalist, warm and refined. From here, I clicked the final button, which read Renovate, and waited for the newly generated image to appear. Renovate AI gave me three options based on my style choices and descriptor words. My favorite was the redesign that had warm lighting cascading over the mirror, and that contained paneling that enhanced the refined look I'd imagined. My favorite AI redesign of the bathroom -- though it did have some oddities. Created by Carly Quellman using Renovate AI Sure, it had some wonky features. A basket instead of a toilet, for one. A bamboo screen inside the shower for another (not sure how long that would last), and a circular rug that looks more like a platform or a lazy Susan. Definitely less dull, though -- and it'll point you in the direction of the vibe you're going for during your remodeling project. There isn't an option within the app for a "redo" (so I essentially had to stick with one of the three designs per my free plan), but for an initial trial run, I was pleasantly surprised with the outcome. Even through the lens of artificial intelligence, good — or upgraded — design can truly make a space feel bigger. Who should use Renovate AI? Design can be grueling to learn if it's not your area of expertise, so I appreciate how artificial intelligence can broaden the range of users to include people who have no design experience but do have a desire to be immersed in design's possibilities. I've always had a hard time nailing down what kind of design type I like, so I was immediately excited when I found a platform that offered the capability to "redesign" a space in response to a picture upload and a "style" choice. (Who doesn't like to look at visually stimulating things?) Whether you're someone like me, who simply wants to reimagine their Airbnb, or someone who's looking to remodel a room or their entire house, in my opinion Renovate AI is thoughtful and inclusive. Besides design "renovations," the platform also offers virtual staging and 3D renders, along with the ability to change interior and exterior paint colors and to upscale blurry images. I imagine that if someone like me enjoyed the experience of such a tool, folks in the industry would find it fascinating — if for nothing more than insight into how design choices influence data, or to quickly get a feel for different designs. I'm all in on something that can help refine or organize a process and strengthen communication in a visually stimulating way. All to reimagine any world, in seconds. Isn't that what dreaming is all about?
Globe and Mail
2 days ago
- Business
- Globe and Mail
3D Home Improvements Releases 2025 Home Renovation Cost Guide for Western Massachusetts
If you're planning a home renovation in Western Massachusetts in 2025, you're likely wondering what it will cost. The answer depends on several key factors, including the size of the project, the materials used, the experience of your home renovation contractor, and local regulations. From kitchen remodels to full home makeovers, renovation costs vary widely—but understanding what drives those costs can help you plan and budget effectively. Average Renovation Costs in Western Massachusetts for 2025 In general, homeowners can expect to pay between $120 and $300 per square foot for renovation projects in 2025. For example, a standard kitchen remodel may cost between $25,000 and $75,000, depending on finishes and appliances. Bathrooms tend to run from $10,000 to $35,000, while finishing a basement can range between $30,000 and $85,000. Full-home remodels often start around $180,000 for a 1,500-square-foot space and can climb above $400,000. Room additions of about 200 square feet typically cost $40,000 to $80,000. These estimates include labor, materials, permits, and contractor management fees. Costs can rise significantly with high-end finishes, structural changes, or specialty work like custom cabinetry and imported tile. What Affects the Cost of Hiring a Renovation Contractor? One of the biggest influences on cost is the scope and complexity of your project. Renovations that involve structural changes—like removing walls for an open-concept layout or converting an attic—require more time, specialized labor, and often, additional permitting. These types of jobs naturally come with a higher price tag. Contractor experience also plays a big role. Well-established professionals with strong reputations tend to charge more, but they bring valuable benefits. These include detailed, accurate estimates, realistic timelines, and familiarity with Western Massachusetts building codes. Experienced contractors are also more likely to work with trusted subcontractors, reducing the risk of delays or low-quality workmanship. Material choices are another major factor. Homeowners working within a tight budget may opt for laminate counters and vinyl flooring. In contrast, mid-range projects might feature quartz countertops or hardwood floors. At the high end, renovations may include custom cabinets, designer lighting, and imported stone tile, all of which significantly raise overall costs. Permitting is a necessary expense, especially in towns like Amherst, Northampton, and Springfield. Fees typically range from $200 to $2,000, depending on the scale of the project. A good contractor will handle the permitting process on your behalf and include these costs in the initial estimate. Labor costs in the region can also impact the total price. Skilled tradespeople such as electricians and plumbers often charge between $100 and $150 per hour, while painters and general laborers usually charge less. Most contractors offer a per-square-foot estimate or fixed price that incorporates all labor costs. Fixed Price vs. Cost-Plus: Which Contract Is Right for You? When hiring a contractor, you'll likely be offered one of two pricing models: fixed-price or cost-plus. A fixed-price contract provides a set amount for the entire project, based on clearly defined specifications. This option offers predictability and is ideal for projects with a well-outlined scope. On the other hand, a cost-plus contract means you'll pay for actual labor and materials, plus a set markup or contractor fee. This model is more flexible, making it suitable for custom renovations or jobs that may evolve during construction. Regardless of which model you choose, make sure to ask how your contractor handles change orders to avoid mid-project surprises. Why Renovation Costs Are Higher in 2025 Several factors continue to push home renovation prices upward in 2025. First, there's an ongoing shortage of skilled labor in the construction industry, which drives up hourly rates. Second, materials like copper, lumber, and drywall have seen sustained price increases. Lastly, homeowners are investing more in energy-efficient upgrades, which often require higher initial spending. At the same time, some materials have stabilized in cost. Engineered flooring and composite siding, for example, are now more affordable than during the height of the pandemic. However, Western Massachusetts remains an area where renovation demand is strong, largely due to the region's aging housing stock. Smart Budgeting Tips for Homeowners To avoid unexpected costs, always plan for a 10% to 20% contingency in your renovation budget. Older homes often have hidden issues such as outdated wiring or water damage that only surface once construction begins. Getting multiple estimates from licensed contractors is also essential—not just to compare pricing, but to evaluate professionalism, warranty coverage, and what's included in each bid. Focus first on projects that offer the highest return on investment. Kitchen and bathroom remodels, along with energy-efficient upgrades like new windows or HVAC systems, tend to add the most long-term value. Transparency in pricing is also crucial. Be wary of contractors who offer vague verbal quotes. Instead, demand a detailed written proposal that itemizes labor, materials, permits, and cleanup. Cost Per Square Foot: What to Expect If you're early in the planning process, using square-foot pricing can help you set realistic expectations. A minor remodel typically costs between $120 and $160 per square foot, while a mid-range renovation may cost $160 to $225. High-end remodels can reach $225 to $300 or more per square foot. Kitchens and bathrooms are the most expensive spaces to renovate because of the plumbing, appliances, and specialized labor involved. Which Rooms Cost the Most to Renovate? Kitchens are usually the most expensive room to upgrade, often requiring electrical rewiring, plumbing updates, new cabinets, and appliance installations. Costs commonly fall in the $30,000 to $75,000 range. Bathrooms, with their need for tile work, waterproofing, and fixtures, generally range from $10,000 to $35,000. Basements can also be expensive, particularly when adding insulation, egress windows, and finished living space, with average prices between $30,000 and $85,000. Bedrooms and living rooms are usually more affordable unless they involve major structural changes. How Local Regulations Impact Renovation Costs Renovation costs in Western Massachusetts are also shaped by local regulations. Towns like Holyoke, Westfield, and Greenfield may have additional zoning requirements, particularly for projects in historic districts or homes with unique energy codes. Contractors familiar with local building departments can help you avoid unnecessary delays and expenses by ensuring all permits and inspections are handled properly. Should You Hire a Separate Architect or Designer? Some contractors offer design-build services, which combine both design and construction under one roof. This can streamline communication, reduce misalignment, and often speed up timelines. However, hiring an independent architect or interior designer provides more creative flexibility, especially for high-end or large-scale remodels. Design fees typically range from $2,500 to $10,000, depending on complexity. Be sure to clarify whether these fees are billed hourly, per project, or rolled into your contractor's overall proposal. What to Look for in a Fair Estimate A reliable estimate should include a full breakdown of material and labor costs, a payment schedule (often split into milestones like 30/40/30), project timelines, warranty terms, and a clear process for handling change orders. Avoid any contractor who demands more than 30% upfront or refuses to provide a written contract. These red flags can lead to disputes and poor project outcomes. 3D Home Improvement provides some of the best home renovation services in Western Massachusetts, offering high-quality workmanship at a fair and competitive cost. How to Save on Home Renovation Costs There are several ways to reduce your renovation expenses. If you're handy, consider handling basic demolition or painting yourself. Reusing existing materials—such as cabinets or lighting fixtures—can also cut costs. Choosing the same flooring or wall color throughout multiple rooms can help reduce waste and labor time. You might also consider scheduling your project during the off-season, such as late fall or winter, when demand is lower. Some homeowners may qualify for rebates or incentives through state programs or utility providers, particularly when installing energy-efficient appliances, insulation, or HVAC systems. Final Thoughts Home renovation costs in Western Massachusetts in 2025 typically fall between $120 and $300 per square foot, depending on the type and scale of the project. While rising labor and material costs have pushed prices higher, thoughtful planning, transparent pricing, and the right contractor can keep your project on time and on budget. Whether you're remodeling a kitchen, updating a bathroom, or transforming an entire home, the right strategy can ensure a beautiful result that adds comfort, energy efficiency, and long-term value to your property.
Yahoo
3 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
Herculean effort underway by 150 volunteers to transform Norfolk family's home
They say it takes a village, and that's exactly what happened when 150 volunteers rose to the challenge of helping a family in need. Toby Fletcher is 16 years old and lives with his mum, Sarah, and siblings in Foulden, between Swaffham and Brandon. He has quadriplegic cerebral palsy and dystonia, requiring round-the-clock care and support. And to make everyday life a little easier for him and his family, a major home renovation is underway – including the addition of a specially adapted downstairs bedroom and wet room. Tony Everett, volunteer, and Sarah Fletcher (Image: Band of Builders) Toby's dad Shaun had been completing the renovation while working at his day job as an electrical engineer. The father-of-six, who also had two grandchildren, tragically died by suicide on Christmas Eve 2024, which meant the work was unfinished. As a result, carers have only been able visit during the day and Toby's mum has had to carry him to bed and care for him alone during the night. A family friend put Sarah in contact with Band of Builders in February, who jumped on board to help the family. Completing Toby's wet room, his bedroom and updating the house will have a massive positive impact on family life, Sarah explained. Tony Everett, volunteer, and Sarah Fletcher (Image: Band of Builders) Tony Everett is one of the 150 volunteers that has signed up to get stuck into the project. He is a bricklayer and has been given the job of looking after the health and wellbeing of the volunteers. He said it's one of several projects that he has been involved with, and he loves giving back to the community. The work is set to start on July 5 and is expected to take 12 days to complete. Band of Builders began in 2016 and provides practical, financial and wellbeing support to those in need. It helps those who work in the construction industry and their families cope with life-changing circumstances. Visit for more information, to volunteer or to donate.
News.com.au
11-06-2025
- Business
- News.com.au
‘Really upsetting': Couple's $252k nightmare
A Melbourne couple's dream home renovation to allow them to become foster carers has turned into 'big black hole' with a bitter dispute emerging, involving an alleged bucket of poo, and the house uninhabitable after more than a year of works. Lucy* and Leo* claim their renovation has turned into 'a disintegration of the house', ballooning costs and a disgusting find on the home's doorstep. '(Somone) took a bucket into our home and defecated in our house and then left it outside our front door in the garden,' Lucy told The couple claimed they were later locked out of their property after the building company did not return to open the locks when the contract was terminated. 'There was a huge lock and a huge chain. Leo had to get a grinder to get the lock off,' Lucy said. 'We shouldn't have to break into our own house.' But surprisingly, while the couple who are in their mid 40s, are furious with the building company – they have also criticised National Australia Bank for what they see as its contribution to the nightmare scenario. The bank advised reducing the construction payment schedule from 11 to six instalments resulting in what the couple claim was an alarming overpayment to the company. 'The bank made us change the payment schedule, which allowed the building company to access more money upfront,' Lucy claimed. 'It means the building company were being overpaid at each stage.' In a letter to the building company in March this year, the couple's lawyers stated the value of the work completed sat at $168,000, despite the couple already paying out $252,000. Demolition of part of the home began in 2023 and yet the house still resembles a building site, said Lucy, forcing the couple to end the contract at the end of March this year. 'It's so disheartening,' she said. In March, a building surveyor made directions to the building company to fix a number of works. Defects had also been identified in an expert's report from last year with 10 issues yet to be rectified, the couple's lawyers claimed. 'My partner had to pull out the installation in the roof as the builder had allowed birds to nest and plastered over it and did not remove the bird's nest,' Lucy noted. The couple requested immediate repayment of $87,000 from the building company earlier this year. Now the couple's lawyers are preparing a case to take to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal. The building company did not respond to request for comment. Do you have a story? Contact MORE: Tradie's colossal 5.5m find in Aus backyard Lucy is worried they can't finish the house and will be forced to sell with a loss of $700,000. Before the renovation the house was worth $1.1 million with the valuation set to jump to $1.25 million to $1.3 million after works were completed. 'We had a real estate agent come through to tell us what we can get now if we sell it incomplete and he told us we would be lucky to get $800,000,' she said. 'So we would lose $400,000 for our principal place of residence and lose $300,000 paid out on legal fees and the builder. That is a $700,000 loss and I can't do that to Leo when he has worked his arse off to pay the mortgage. 'It's a really terrible situation and it's highly stressful.' Meanwhile, the couple claim they felt unsupported by NAB when making the second last payment of $84,000. 'I rang them and said 'I just want to pay half as we don't have what we are paying for here',' she said. But she was told by NAB that if she didn't want to pay the full amount that an option was to either to go through an assessment with the credit team as to whether the payment schedule could be changed. Otherwise, they could terminate the building company's contract, reapply for a loan and 'start again'. Lucy is critical that NAB touts flexibility when it comes to the loan but said that isn't the case and said terminating wasn't an option. 'In that situation, we would have half a house and would be faced with getting sued by the builder and the suing part would have exceeded us making the payment, as it could have been over $100,000,' she said. When the couple eventually terminated the contract earlier this year they claimed the house was already more than 290 days overdue. 'We can't live there. We have to live in my one bedroom apartment as newlyweds but we've got two little dogs and have to take them out five to six times a day and it's just not fair,' Lucy said. The couple are now paying the mortgage on the apartment and house, as well as the construction loan, with their request to remain on interest only payments rejected by NAB. 'We are typical Aussie battlers – we don't have lucrative jobs,' Lucy noted. Meanwhile, Leo believes banks should introduce more inspections before payments are made. 'We are in debt for a house that should have been completed in May last year,' he said. 'It's been compounded by the bank giving us only one option, which was a construction loan of six repayments. If it was a broader range of say 11 repayments and proper inspections we wouldn't be in this situation.' Lucy said the couple felt like they were 'fobbed' off after lodging complaints with NAB over the handling of the construction loan and have taken the matter to dispute resolution service, the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA). The couple knocked back an initial offer from NAB of two months repayment of interest, Lucy said. They then declined an offer made during the AFCA proceedings, which are continuing, with another meeting being held on Tuesday. 'We are in a housing crisis and we have an empty house and have one we could offer up for rent and we can't do it. It's terrible. We would love to be in position to put our friend, who is a pensioner in the unit, but I can't help. I can't help children as I can't have foster kids in a one-bedroom apartment,' Lucy said. 'I mourn and cry about our freedom of choice as it's so limited. Our life is on hold until we can sort out the bank and the building company.' Lucy wants to raise more awareness about construction loans, sounding the alarm that she believes consumers are being put at a disadvantage with reduced payment stages, which are generally seen as standard in the industry. 'The banks may think its efficiency or streamlining but it's actually to the detriment to the customer,' she said. 'If I was able to keep the 11 progress payments as per the original contract, I would pay interest on $56,000 for the work completed to date. But because of NAB's product design limitation, I am paying interest on $252,000 and funded the building company for 90 per cent of the work in a house we cannot occupy.' She believes many other Aussies are also impacted by the same scenario. NAB would not comment on the specific customer issues. 'Customers have control over releasing payments to a builder as a project progresses under a construction loan. They do this when they are satisfied with the progress of each stage the builder has reached,' said NAB executive Megan Bond. 'It is industry standard for these payments to be made in five stages. This structure ensures customers are entering into an agreement with financially solvent builder. 'Any request to deviate from the agreed payment schedule needs to go through a review process.' Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the Victorian Building Authority (VBA) said they had received three complaints regarding the building company over the last two years. 'Two of the three have been dealt with,' they noted. 'The VBA is waiting on more information from the third complainant before progressing the matter.' The VBA has sent out an inspector to examine the building work and complete a report. The couple did not want to name the building company publicly as the dispute is ongoing.
