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Remodeling your living room is one of the most exciting projects you can undertake. However, you need to understand the factors that affect the cost of a living room remodel in Portland.
The cost of your project will depend on whether you want to demolish and rebuild, make major repairs, or just update the look of an existing room.
Some factors that will affect your living room remodel cost are the size and scope of your project, the materials you choose to use, and labor costs. Remodeling a living room in Portland will cost you a few thousand dollars or over $50,000, depending on how much you want to change.
Fortunately, you can reduce the cost of your home remodeling project with a few strategies while maintaining the look you want for your living room. You can save money by being selective about your materials, shopping for the best prices on services and labor, and taking advantage of any available discounts.
In this post, we’ll look at the cost breakdown for a typical living room remodel in Portland, factors affecting the cost, and how the resale value of your home can be affected by remodeling your living room.
Factors that influence the cost of a living room remodel in Portland
Your remodeler must consider a few important factors when coming up with an estimate for your living room remodel. They have a better chance of estimating the costs accurately when they see the space and understand your vision for the home remodeling project.
The major factors that influence the cost of a living room remodel in Portland are:
Project scope
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The materials, labor, and overall cost of your remodel will vary based on the size and scope of your project. The extent you’ll have to tear down or reconstruct will determine the amount of materials and labor required.
If you also plan to replace your furniture or appliances, your cost will increase.
The living room is the main house area for entertaining and will therefore require much work. Most living room remodels involve installing new flooring, painting, and adding features like cabinets and shelves.
Your living room may be less expensive than a bathroom or kitchen remodel, but the costs can quickly add up as you go about your project.
Some parts, such as floors, walls, and ceilings, are costly. They may require more labor and materials than you had initially planned for.
If you plan to fully transform your living room and make it comfortable, upgrade your electrical and HVAC systems. Investing in reliable, quality systems that will serve you for years to come is expensive.
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Timeline
How long do you expect the remodeling project to take? What is your timeline, and how much work will you expect to be completed within that period? More time usually means a higher cost, but this is not always true.
During a shorter timeline, you may need to source more resources to complete the project on time. You may have to hire more professionals and machinery and hire additional workers.
A longer timeline allows you to take time with your remodeling project, making it easier to develop cost-effective solutions. You can find affordable alternative materials or perform some tasks yourself to save on costs.
You may also need to consider housing costs if you must move out during the remodel. Renting a hotel or apartment may be outside your initial budget, but it could affect the overall cost of your living room remodel.
Materials and labor costs
Labor is a significant factor in determining the cost of a living room remodel. Each task requires time and expertise, from demolition and carpentry to painting and installing furniture.
Labor varies from region to region, so you should get quotes from several local contractors to ensure you get the best deal. The company you settle for should be reliable, experienced, and have valid licenses.
Licenses include things like building and electrical permits. You'll need to ensure the contractor is up to date with all their required licenses before you hire them, or you may face fines or other problems down the line.
Materials for remodeling a living room may include flooring, drywall, electrical and plumbing work, cabinetry, wall treatments, lighting fixtures, furniture, window treatments, and other decorative accents.
These materials will cost more if you opt for higher-end products, such as hardwood floors or designer furniture.
The contractor you choose
Contracting companies offer remodeling services, including design, permitting, demolition, installation of materials and fixtures, and clean-up. They have a team of professionals with different specialties, so the cost may be higher than hiring an individual contractor.
A reliable contracting company should have a good reputation, valid licenses and insurance, and references from satisfied customers. Their team should include experienced designers, project managers, estimators, and other specialists in different construction areas.
Solo contractors may be better for smaller remodeling projects, such as replacing furniture, painting walls, and adding wallpaper. They can work around your schedule and budget without needing a full design team.
If you hire a solo contractor for a large-scale, remodel, you may save on labor, but you may also lose out on the design expertise that a contracting company provides.
A solo contractor may have to subcontract other specialists, such as an electrician or plumber, which could affect your living space's overall look and feel.
Additional costs
Additional costs when remodeling your living room may include new furniture pieces, window treatments, appliances, and other decor pieces and accessories. You can replace or upcycle existing furniture or opt for new pieces that fit your budget and design preferences.
Window treatments are a great way to add color, texture, and pattern to your living room. You can change the look of this area in your home by adding curtains or shutters. Or you can even replace your windows with energy-efficient ones to reduce heating and cooling costs.
Modern appliances that turn your living room into a cozy entertainment space, such as TVs, speakers, and gaming systems, will also add to the final cost of a remodel.
All these additional costs can help improve your home's resale value by making it look more modern and appealing. New furniture and updated technology will show buyers that the house is move-in ready.
Energy-efficient windows and appliances can save buyers money on their energy bills. Updated lighting fixtures add a touch of style and sophistication to any living room.
What is the average cost of a living room remodel in Portland?
Portland homeowners can expect to pay an average of $12,000 to $25,000 for a complete living room remodel. This cost may be higher or lower depending on the size of your room, the materials you select, and labor costs.
It's important to get quotes from several local contractors and carefully compare prices before deciding. Researching different options will help you find the best deal and ensure your remodel is done correctly.
Cost breakdown of a living room remodel in Portland
Your entire remodel project involves various components, including materials, labor, and any additional costs. The average cost breakdown of a living room remodel in Portland is as follows:
Flooring
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The average cost of flooring installation in Portland is $12.50 per square foot, meaning you can pay as little as $3 for materials such as vinyl and as high as $22 for high-end hardwood floors.
This is the cost of installing new flooring; therefore, your cost may increase in labor for removing old flooring, adjusting the leveling of your subfloor, and other factors. Labor rates may range from $1 to $15 per square foot, with most installers opting for a $20 - $60 hourly rate.
A standard 320-square-foot living room can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $6,400 for materials and labor. Budgeting an additional 10% for materials and labor is recommended in case any changes or upgrades arise during the remodel.
Walls
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Painting or wallpapering a living room can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000, depending on the wall's size and your preferences.
Professional painters charge average costs of $20 to $60 per hour and can complete a standard wallpapering project in about 8 hours.
You can also upgrade your walls with decorative molding or panels, which may cost an additional $1,000. This is a great option if you are looking to add texture or dimension to your living space.
Ceiling
Updating your living room’s ceiling can add much character and give the space a unique feel. Installing drywall or replacing existing drywall may cost an additional $1,500 to $3,000, depending on the size of your room.
Adding a unique ceiling finish, such as beams or an ornamental pattern, can cost an additional $3,000 to $5,000. Beams and other design elements may be expensive but can greatly impact the look of your living room.
Lighting
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Light fixtures are necessary to complete any living room design. Replacing your ceiling lights with recessed lighting can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $2,500, depending on the size of your room.
You may also add accent lighting, such as rope or track lighting, for an additional $2,000 to $3,500.
Lighting fixtures are often overlooked when planning your home remodel cost, but it can be the finishing touch that makes your living room stand out. The value added to your home by lighting fixtures with modern style and functionality is worth every penny.
Electricity and plumbing
Major living room remodel projects may require additional electrical or plumbing work. Upgrading your electrical wiring and outlets may cost an additional $1,000 to $3,000. You may also need to pay extra for plumbing if you add a wet bar or sink.
Electrical and plumbing work is not always necessary during a remodel, but it's essential if you make any major changes to your living room.
Your project may interfere with your home's existing wiring, outlets, or plumbing, so getting an estimate from a professional before beginning any remodeling work is important.
Furniture
Do you want to replace your furniture with new couches, chairs, and tables? A set of mid to high-end furniture in a living room can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000. This will largely depend on the size of your living room and the quality of furniture you choose.
Replacing furniture is not always necessary if you are remodeling on a budget. You can opt to keep your existing furniture and purchase slipcovers for an additional $500 to $800, depending on the size and type of furniture.
You may also repurpose old furniture and add a fresh coat of paint. This can cost less than $200 and allow you to personalize your furniture without breaking the bank.
Decor and accessories
If your current decor is outdated or you wish to add new pieces for aesthetic purposes, you can spend an additional $1,000 to $2,000 on decor and accessories. This home remodel cost will depend largely on the type of pieces you choose and your style preference.
You can also shop at antique stores or flea markets for unique pieces that cost less but still give off a sense of style and sophistication. Adding plants to your living room is another great way to add life to the space and can cost as little as $50.
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How much resale value does a living room remodel add to the house?
When selling your home, a newly remodeled living room can significantly increase the property's value. Depending on the size and scope of your remodel, you can expect to get back up to 80% - 90% of the cost in increased home value.
It may not increase the value as a whole house remodel would, but it will still be a great benefit when you sell your home. For instance, upgrading the technology in your living room with a smart TV or sound system can add considerable value to your home.
Electronic upgrades with modern relevance are always attractive to potential buyers. They will be willing to pay more for a home with modern features, as it will save them time and money on future upgrades.
Hire a reliable company for your next remodeling project
Your living room remodel can be a big investment, but it will add tremendous value to your home. It introduces modern style, improved functionality and is a great way to increase the resale value of your home.
However, finding a reliable company for your remodeling project is important. Research contractors in your area and read reviews to ensure you get quality service for the best price.
For more information about remodeling your living room in Portland, read our blog post on the 9 Best Renovation Companies in Portland. You can schedule a consultation with one of our professionals and get an accurate estimate for your remodel.