The Hidden Costs of Remodeling an Older Maryland Home (And How to Budget for Them)

Nothing throws off a remodel faster than an unexpected cost. One minute, you're planning a beautiful kitchen or new primary suite, and the next, you're staring at an extra $15,000 to replace something you didn't know was an issue. It's stressful, overwhelming, and all too common, especially in older Maryland homes where surprises can be hiding behind every wall. 

We've seen firsthand how these hidden costs can derail even the most carefully planned projects, forcing homeowners to make tough choices on the fly. That's why we believe knowledge is power when it comes to remodeling older homes in Maryland. 

At Villa Builders, we've remodeled homes across Southern Maryland for years, and we know the types of issues that tend to crop up because we've fixed them. In this blog, we're sharing the hidden costs we see most often and how you can budget for them from the start.

Remodeling Surprises In Older Homes: The Hidden Costs Of Home Renovation

As Maryland remodeling contractors, we can confidently tell you that historic home renovation in Maryland or Hyattsville home remodeling of older residences can be costly. Often, we've seen homeowners at their wits' end after discovering hidden costs when issues arise, such as when walls are opened or flooring is removed. 

Many jump the gun and immediately believe these issues will drastically impact their remodeling budget, and this can be the case if they are not prepared. That's why we want to help ensure you're prepared for the hidden costs of home renovation. 

Below, you'll find a list of remodeling surprises we often encounter in older homes. We've even taken it a step further by sharing how much these hidden surprises could cost you: 

1. Outdated Electrical Systems: One of the most common hidden costs is outdated electrical systems. Replacing old wiring with new, code-compliant systems can cost from $4,000 to $15,000, depending on the size of your older home and the ease of access to the wiring. 

2. Structural Problems: Structural repairs, such as fixing sagging floors or reinforcing old framing, are common in older Maryland homes. These repairs can add $5,000 to $20,000 to your budget, especially if a team uncovers water damage or termite infestations are involved. 

3. Plumbing Problems: Plumbing is another significant consideration that can have numerous hidden costs. We often inform clients that replacing galvanized pipes or rerouting lines can add $3,000 to $10,000 to the project cost. 

4. Asbestos: In older homes, asbestos poses a significant health concern. Asbestos or lead paint removal, which may require professional abatement, costs between $2,500 and $10,000, depending on the magnitude and location of the asbestos contamination. 

5. Foundation and Drainage: Foundation or drainage issues, like sealing a leaking basement or correcting grading, can cost $6,000 to $25,000 or more. The older the home, the more likely it is that this will be an issue. 

How To Budget For Unexpected Costs in Home Remodels

So, how do you plan for surprises without feeling like your budget is spiraling out of control? The truth is, a thoughtful budget isn't about preventing every issue; it's about building flexibility into your plan so you're not caught off guard when the unexpected happens.

Here's how to stay one step ahead with a few of our best remodeling budget tips:

• Set Aside a Contingency Fund: The golden rule of remodeling older homes is to set aside about 10 to 20 percent of your total renovation budget for unforeseen expenses. For example, if your project is $150,000, plan for an additional $15,000 to $30,000 to cover hidden costs without stress.

• Get a Thorough Pre-Construction Assessment: Working with experienced home remodeling contractors in Maryland at a design-build firm means that issues can often be identified and addressed before construction begins. Our team at Villa Builders, for example, conducts in-depth site assessments to reduce the likelihood of major surprises later on.

• Phase the Remodel If Needed: If your older home requires extensive work, consider tackling the renovation in phases. Budgeting for an old house renovation like this allows you to spread out costs over time while focusing on the areas that need attention most urgently, such as the 1980s bathroom or the failing kitchen layout.

• Invest in Quality Over Quick Fixes: Cheaper isn't always the most cost-effective solution in the long run. Fixing a shortcut years from now often costs more than doing the job right the first time. We've found this is especially true with things like waterproofing, electrical updates, and insulation.

• Work with a Transparent Builder: When considering how to budget for a home remodel or, more importantly, unexpected expenses, choose a remodeling partner who is honest about potential risks and clear about pricing. The right team won't try to "upsell" problems; they'll help you understand your options and prioritize your needs based on the hidden costs you may be facing.

Choose Villa Builders For Top Quality Home Remodeling In Maryland

Now you know about the hidden costs of remodeling older Maryland homes. However, with these insights, you might now be wondering how much does a remodel really cost? At Villa Builders, our remodelers are ready to discuss remodeling costs in Hyattsville and Maryland, including the hidden costs of remodeling projects. 

As a premier Maryland design-build remodeler, we've helped countless clients understand hidden costs and learn how to budget for them. Although we've shared a few of our best tips in this blog and discussed the most common unexpected expenses, there is more to learn, and we'll be happy to help you. So contact us here, and let's talk about your renovation and how we can help you create a home you love again.