how much does a steamboat bathroom remodel cost?

how much does a steamboat bathroom remodel cost?

Posted on by Kande

seriously. how much?

The most accurate answer to that question is: “Far more than you think, but not as much as Aspen.” 

I noticed this type of promotion in a recent Steamboat Springs real estate property listing and it hit home. I am copying that tone as it rings true.

Residential design and building in our sacred mountain valley location typically comes with some expectation calibrations. The actual construction cost versus the perceived value can cause more than normal sticker shock especially when it is compared to other more populated and easily accessible areas of our country. 

The amounts in my example budget are not based on any particular scope of work. However I am assuming there is a nearly complete remodel with all new fixtures and finishes, within the same footprint. The estimates are also based upon a handful of other assumptions including a mid to upper end level of quality and craftsmanship; all materials, labor, and equipment to complete the project. It is grouped by construction categories……..and, okay, I hear ya let’s get to the numbers!

Here you go:

So …

How much does a Steamboat bathroom remodel cost?

Short answer: $ 600 to $ 700 per square foot for the interior remodel construction. Plus $ 90 to $ 180 per square foot for interior design, furnishings and decor.

More?…

A typical 5′ x 8′ bathroom would cost around $ 32,600 to complete. A larger bathroom about 180 square feet would have some economy of scale and I estimate completed cost would start in the $ 137,100 neighborhood.

What’s included in that amount? 

Best answer: I’m not exactly sure. I do know that the total amounts are not far off from where many Steamboat remodel project’s final costs come in at. My intent is to share the most realistic estimates without regard for optimism.

It is important to note that the bottom line total amounts include interior design, furnishings and decor for a completed space.

Why do Steamboat prices seem higher than my hometown?  Unless you were lucky enough to have been born here, you had to navigate your arrival into the Yampa Valley.  The same is true of the building materials and trades people. Not only does it takes a bit longer to get here, especially for part of the year,  our labor force also enjoys the benefits of our shared environment. There are certain seasonal considerations. There may be altitude and weather related site conditions that I believe are best served by our more experienced, and perhaps less available builders. These factors lead to the higher than a national average cost for a bathroom remodel.  It’s my belief that with this upfront understanding you can plan accordingly as you consider remodeling your Steamboat bathroom.

Can we remodel for less than $ 600 per sf ? Of course! There are always ways to work within many budgets. Your selections and/or your overall scope of work will require some tweaking along with other cost considerations. 

2-STEP TAKEAWAY:

#1. Agree with your team on the project’s Scope of Work.

#2 Match the Scope of Work to your Budget Cost Estimate.

Both documents will benefit from detailed written descriptions instead of broad narratives as you will be contracting another entity to construct your home. Invest time and attention on making sure you and your contractor are in agreement about how the Scope of Work will be invoiced and funded.  Note clarifications and assumptions, and identify allowances and exclusions. Be specific.

Open and honest communication up front will clear the way for a successful project for the whole team!

So, what’s up with some of the random links? I explain in my 1st post >

preparing for your bathroom remodel

preparing for your bathroom remodel

Posted on by Kande

remodeling your bathroom is an exciting adventure.

These tips are for design clients that have:

  • Completed the design process;
  • Engaged with a contractor who is ready to begin work; 
  • Ordered and received a majority of the materials;
  • Are ready to prepare their home for selective demolition of their space.

CONGRATULATIONS!  Transforming a bathroom that’s ended its service life into a fresh space that better suits your current needs, lifestyle and wellness goals is a worthwhile investment in your home’s value and in your personal comfort.

1ST: CLEAN. Clear your household items completely from the area of work. This includes everything from the cabinets, closets, tub and shower area, wall art, pictures, rugs, and any nearby valuables that you want to remain safe.

If your closet is included in the scope, you will want to choose clothing to keep out during the remodel and store the rest in a safe location away from the dust and debris.

EVERYTHING MUST BE REMOVED FROM THE SPACE.

TO KEEP OR NOT TO KEEP? This is a great time for purging and getting rid of unwanted, unused items. This can be a silver lining during all of the mess and upheaval that a remodel can cause. 

Be sure let your designer and contractor know ahead of demo day if you have a way to repurpose any part of your bathroom, such as cabinets, so that they can set them aside.

Some individuals wish to donate to organizations, friends, family and as long as your team is aware ahead of time, they can take extra care to prevent damage as much as possible.

RELOCATE. Since your bathroom will be out of commission for a period of time, it is important to set up the bathroom that you will use in the interim. Doing this a week ahead will allow yourself time to adjust your routine. 

If your bedroom is being updated or within the work zone, sleeping in another room ahead of time may help in that transition. 

Any remodel can cause upset and frustration, but planning ahead can ease some of that stress and help your family continue to function.

VACAY TIME? Your daily routine will be greatly impacted while one of the most used areas of your home is being remodeled. This can be a good time to take a vacation or stay with family and friends during the main construction phase to eliminate the headache of trying to work around the mess and noise. 

While this is not an option for everyone, it is worth considering in order to alleviate some of the stress related to demolition and initial installations. It is advisable to stay out of the home during any painting and staining as chemicals and fumes may  be strong and cause headaches. Although the contractor will be diligent in using fans and trying to increase airflow in the space, it is best to give a day or two for the area to cure before returning to the space.

EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED. No matter how well planned out a remodel project is, unexpected things will happen. Maybe it is a structural issue that isn’t discovered until after demolition, or there is an item that you want to change along the way. Address the change as soon as it is detected. Understand the financial and timing cost associated with a change. Adjust accordingly. When a problem comes along…

NOW, HURRY UP AND WAIT!

Certain aspects of your project will take more time than others. It may be in product production and delivery, or in the installation process. Here are some notable timing considerations:

  • Cabinets can take 8 to 10 weeks to be fabricated from after the date of final approval. Most cabinets should be ordered AFTER the new structure/walls are complete so that measurements can be exact. Then add shipping time from the factory to your home.
  • Countertops can take 3 to 6 weeks to complete the entire process of templating, fabrication, delivery and installation. This work is scheduled after all of the the cabinets, or other sub structures are set in place.
  • Setting tile is a process that requires focused attention by the tile setter. There are layered steps and certain curing times to complete the whole process. This is not the place to make up time on the schedule!
  • Glass shower doors can me accurately measured only after the shower wall tile is set and then it will take a few weeks to be made and installed. 

Please consider that some of the time frames are out of our control, and that we are equally anxious to see the completed project!

So, what’s up with some of the random links? I explain in my 1st post >

7 tips for setting realistic expectations for your home project

7 tips for setting realistic expectations for your home project

Posted on by Kande

expectations defined:

What to expect when you are engaged in the construction of your home.

First, residential construction includes everything from new home builds, to home additions, major renovations, selective remodels and all related home projects.

Residential work is as easily defined as is each resident! We are all unique in our perceptions and expectations and this is amplified when investing in your home. With that in mind, here is some general guidance and expectation callibrations that would serve homeowners well to consider.

DISCLAIMER FOR EVERY HOME CONSTRUCTION PROJECT:

UNLESS YOU HAVE A LEGAL DEPARTMENT THAT REVIEWS YOUR CONTRACTS AND ACCEPTS THEM ON YOUR BEHALF, YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR UNDERSTANDING WHAT YOUR CONTRACTOR,  AND SUBS &  VENDORS ARE  PROVIDING. READ THE FINE PRINT. KNOW WHAT TO, AND NOT TO, EXPECT.

EXPECTATIONS THEME SONG
#1. Expect to ask a lot of questions.

This is my best piece of advice to homeowner’s in the design and construction process. There is often a communication gap between owners and designers or builders. This is normal and to be expected. We don’t know what you don’t know. ASK US! We know that you may not easily visualize how things will look once they are built. Words and even drawings are not always enough to help paint the picture. Don’t be shy. Ask for other examples, samples, 3D renderings, and moodboards. There are so many tools to bridge the gap that you should be able to gain a somewhat clear idea of what you are buying.

#2. Expect to hear terms that everyone seems to know except for you.

Call a timeout and request an explanation, or a photo so that you are on the same page. Don’t expect to know terminology you’ve rarely or never have heard before. What is a miter? What does AFF mean? What’s MDF, or OSB or C-C? You do not have to know it all, but it does directly relate to the product your are in the process of purchasing. See #1. Ask!

#3. Expect a few hiccups on the way to completion.

Things happen that cause projects to shift directions. It might be a material shortage, freight issue, quality control, human error, or mother nature. I have learned that these are opportunities to improve the outcome. Trust that it will work out.

#4. Expect your project to take longer and cost more.

This has held true my entire career. Some things never because everything always changes. Does that make sense?🚪

#5. Expect emotional moments.

This particular investment reflects you in a very personal way. It can feel they way you want it to feel. It will fit you, work for you, serve and please you. There is a great deal attached to our homes, and that’s the best part! Ride the rollercoaster to success!

#6. Expect a home that you love.

Expect a success. Have a plan and allow yourself enough time to make thoroughly informed decisions. The more confident you can be with one choice, the easier the next selections will become.

#7. Expect honesty, transparency and respect from your team.

I honestly would like to learn about your project and will obvisously, and shamelessly, include a link to my inquiry form.

Happy Home Constructing!

SUBMIT INQUIRY FORM

NOTE FROM ME TO YOU: This is meant to be a general guide as I cannot know the parameters of your project until we meet or e-meet. There will be standards and regulations for neighborhoods, HOAs, regional and local practices that are not addressed here. It would be part of the intake information if we were to work together.

 

So, what’s up with some of the random links? I explain in my 1st post >