Planning a full home renovation in San Diego can be exciting—but without the right preparation, it can also become overwhelming. Whether you’re modernizing an older property, redesigning your layout, or upgrading finishes throughout, here’s what to expect and how to prepare for a smooth, successful transformation.

Cost Estimates by Home Size

Renovation costs in San Diego are higher than the national average, due to labor rates, permit costs, and material choices. Here’s a general breakdown:

• Small homes (1,000–2,000 sq ft): $60,000–$120,000

• Medium homes (2,000–3,000 sq ft): $100,000–$250,000

• Large homes (3,000+ sq ft): $150,000–$500,000+

Per square foot, expect:

• Basic renovation: $20–$80/sq ft

• Mid-range renovation: $80–$150/sq ft

• Luxury renovation: $150–$300+/sq ft

The final price depends on how extensive the changes are—simple updates will obviously cost less than gut renovations or structural changes.

What Affects the Cost?

Scope of Work

A cosmetic remodel (paint, flooring, lighting) will cost significantly less than a full-scale renovation involving layout changes, new plumbing, or structural adjustments.

Materials and Finishes

The choices you make for flooring, countertops, cabinetry, appliances, and fixtures will influence your total cost more than almost anything else.

Labor Costs

Skilled labor is in high demand in San Diego. Labor typically accounts for 40–60% of your total budget, especially for projects involving plumbing, electrical, and structural trades.

Permits and Design Fees

Depending on the size and complexity of the project, permits and architectural plans can range from $5,000 to $15,000 or more. Most full renovations will require multiple permits and inspections.

Surprise Repairs

If you’re remodeling an older home, be prepared for hidden issues like outdated wiring, old plumbing, termite damage, or mold. These can quickly add 10–20% to your budget.

Renovation Timeline

Here’s a general timeline for a full home renovation:

• Planning and design: 4–8 weeks

• Permitting and approvals: 4–12 weeks

• Demolition and structural work: 2–6 weeks

• Mechanical and electrical rough-in: 2–4 weeks

• Drywall, insulation, and framing: 2–4 weeks

• Interior finishes (flooring, paint, cabinetry): 3–6 weeks

• Final details and punch list: 1–2 weeks

Smaller projects may take around 4–5 months. Larger or more customized renovations can stretch to 6–9 months.

Return on Investment

A professionally managed renovation typically recoups 60–90% of its cost at resale. The return depends on your neighborhood, quality of work, and the parts of the home you focus on.

Some of the best-returning upgrades include:

• Kitchen remodeling

• Bathroom upgrades

• Open-concept living spaces

• Modernized HVAC, electrical, and plumbing

• Outdoor living improvements

But ROI is more than just resale—it’s also about daily comfort, better layout flow, and energy efficiency.

Tips to Prepare

• Define your scope early: Know what you want to change and what you’re keeping.

• Set a realistic budget: Include a 10–20% contingency fund.

• Make design decisions upfront: Changes mid-project can cause delays and added costs.

• Get the right team in place: Work with licensed, experienced professionals who understand full home renovations.

• Plan for temporary relocation (if needed): Depending on the scale, you may want to live off-site during construction.

Why Choose a Professional Remodeling Team

A full renovation involves hundreds of moving parts. From permits and structural planning to coordinating trades and timelines, it takes experience to manage it well. A dedicated remodeling company helps ensure:

• Consistent project oversight

• Clear communication throughout

• Proper documentation and permit handling

• Smooth scheduling between trades

• Clean, professional finishes that last

The right team turns a major renovation into a rewarding, well-managed process—from concept to completion.