Whole Home Renovation Costs in Calgary: What to Expect

Whole Home Renovation Costs in Calgary: What to Expect

In 2023, home prices in Calgary surged by an impressive 7.64%, bringing the average cost of a detached home to approximately $675,783. As home prices rise and the search for the perfect property becomes increasingly challenging, a complete renovation of your existing home may become a more appealing option—one worth considering seriously.

A home renovation can transform your current space into the dream home you've always envisioned, while also boosting its market value and unlocking its full potential. However, the scale and cost of such a project can be intimidating, leading many homeowners to hesitate. But before ruling out a full home renovation in Calgary, it’s essential to consult with local renovation experts.

To help you determine if a full home renovation in Calgary is the right choice for you, our team at Kavaleer has outlined the expected costs. In this blog, you'll find a comprehensive guide to average renovation costs in Calgary. While every project is unique, this guide will provide you with a clear idea of what to expect.

Calgary Home Renovation Prices: Average Cost

In Calgary, Canada, the average cost of a whole home renovation in 2024, including all bathrooms, cabinetry and finishes, typically ranges from $245,000 to about $295,000, depending on the size and scope of the project. 

Mostly, when we talk whole home renovations, clients are considering major interior style and functionality changes. But whole home renovations could include full exteriors renovations, new windows and doors, additions, bump outs, and more. Completely demolishing the interior and exterior finishes of the home and building from scratch (what we call a "down to the studs, interior/exterior remodel" requires a more substantial investment in the range of $395,000 + 

For standard renovations, the average cost of home renovation per square foot can be around $100 to $150. High-end or luxury renovations may exceed these estimates, especially if custom features or premium materials are involved. 

Please reach out to us to discuss the specific cost of renovating your home in Calgary. However, to give you a general idea of Calgary home renovation prices, we’ve provided an overview of the average investment required for various types of renovations:

• Bathroom renovations cost between $38,000 and $65,000.

• Half-bath renovations cost between $18,000 and $35,000.

• Kitchen renovations range between $70,000 and $150,000.

• Office renovations cost between $15,000 and $40,000.

• Home extensions and add-ons can cost between $95,000 and $125,000.

The Unexpected Costs Homeowners Should Know During A Whole Home Renovation In Calgary

Proper planning can alleviate most unexpected costs before starting a renovation project in Calgary. However, some common unexpected costs homeowners can encounter is when hidden problems are found. For example, damage from water leaks, rot, or improper work done by others hidden within walls. 

Unfortunately, these hidden issues can increase the budget and timeline of a renovation since they will need to be fixed before any new work can begin during the renovation process. 

Other potential costs could include temporary living accommodations, moving and storage expenses for furniture and belongings, and increased dining-out costs if the kitchen is being remodeled. Your builder will be a great asset to help you define and plan for the soft costs associated with your renovation. At Kavaleer, we pride ourselves on helping clients to understand the renovation process, what to expect and how to manage the short-term lifestyle change that comes with improving your home. 

Factors That Affect The Cost Of Whole Home Renovations

When it comes to custom home renovation costs in Calgary, the amount you will pay depends on several factors, including the home's size and the scope of the renovation.
Other important considerations include:

• Location: Urban areas typically have higher renovation costs than rural areas, so you may pay more for a renovation in Calgary than in the countryside.

• Size of Home: Renovating more rooms and overall square footage has an impact on the cost as more materials and labour are needed.

• Materials: The choice of materials for countertops, floors, and finishes and millwork significantly impacts the budget. Material availability and costs can be volatile, influenced by supply chain issues and market demand. So bear this in mind, as this can affect the costs of your whole home renovation.

• Structural Changes: Structural modifications can increase expenses. For example, if your home renovation includes an addition or extension, it will increase the project's price but can pay off big time and offer a huge return on your investment. 

• New Systems: Updating plumbing, electrical and HVAC can be necessary and costly during a whole-home renovation.

• Home Age: Older homes often require more extensive and expensive renovations as they often have hidden issues to address, outdated mechanical, electrical and heating systems and may need to be brought up to modern safety code standards. 

• Inflation: Rising inflation rates can increase the cost of materials, labour, and overall project expenses.

• Skilled Labor Shortage: A shortage of qualified tradesmen in the marketplace results inhigher labour costs as demand exceeds supply. 

  These are only some of the many factors that can affect the cost of a home renovation in Calgary. To better understand the factors influencing your home renovation, you should speak with home renovation contractors in Calgary. 

How Labour Rates Influence Whole Home Renovation Costs

Completing a renovation yourself isn't impossible, but it is incredibly difficult and costly, especially when mistakes are made. Fortunately, hiring professional contractors can relieve much of the stress of a renovation, though it comes at a cost.

In Calgary, 2024, renovation contractors and labourers typically account for 20% to 30% of a renovation budget. Hourly rates for skilled labour can range between $50 to $150 or more, depending on the work's complexity and the tradesperson's experience. Since labour plays a key role in your whole home renovation budget, it's crucial to ensure you choose the right renovation company. 

The Benefits Of Whole Home Renovations

While whole home renovation prices may seem incredibly daunting and can easily deter anyone from doing a home renovation, many benefits outweigh the costs attached to the project. For example:

• A home renovation will significantly increase the value of your home, and if you plan to put your home on the market, a completed renovation will ensure it will sell quickly and for a high price.

• A whole home renovation can enhance the home's comforts, personal aesthetics, and efficiency, all of which are invaluable elements for ensuring the enjoyment of living in your house.

• Complete whole-home renovations in Calgary will give your home a customized and pristine new look. By adding insulation and new windows, you will also enjoy better energy efficiency, which can reduce utility costs in the long run.

So, if you're considering a custom home renovation in Calgary, these are only a few of the benefits you can expect after you complete a whole home renovation. 

Speak With Whole Home Renovation Experts Kavaleer Renovations Today To Discuss Your Calgary Project

At Kavaleer Renovations, we know that building or renovating a home is a big investment and a personal experience that can be daunting at first. That's why we emphasize clear communication with our clients as a pillar of our business. 

Kavaleer Renovations has earned its reputation as one of Calgary's most trusted home renovation companies. With expertise in building new homes, full custom renovations, home additions, and secondary suites, we are fully equipped to manage your entire home renovation in Calgary, Alberta.

Whatever your renovation needs, our team will be with you every step of the way, from concept to completion. Contact us today, and let us turn your renovation dreams into reality.