How to Save Money on a Remodel (Without Cutting Corners)
If you’ve ever priced out a kitchen or bathroom remodel, you know the costs can add up quickly. Cabinets, countertops, flooring, lighting, plumbing—the list is long, and your budget may feel stretched before the project even begins.
The temptation? Cut corners. Cheaper materials, rushing through steps, or hiring the lowest bidder. But here’s the truth: cutting corners almost always costs more in the long run. Poor workmanship, premature repairs, or even having to redo parts of the project can drain your wallet and your patience.
At Everstead Design Build, we believe you can have a beautiful, lasting remodel and save money—without sacrificing quality. Here are a few smart ways to maximize your budget while still getting the home you’ve been dreaming about.
1. Focus on What Adds the Most Value
Not every upgrade carries the same weight. For example, investing in high-quality cabinetry and countertops in a kitchen often delivers a bigger return than splurging on high-end light fixtures. In bathrooms, a well-built shower tends to matter more than luxury tile in every corner.
Tip: Work with your contractor to identify the “must-haves” versus the “nice-to-haves.” Prioritizing the essentials will stretch your dollars further.
2. Choose Timeless Over Trendy
Trendy materials can feel exciting today but may look dated in a few years. Choosing classic finishes—like shaker cabinets, quartz countertops, or hardwood floors—keeps your remodel looking fresh longer. That means fewer costly updates down the road.
3. Reuse or Refresh What You Can
You don’t always need to start from scratch. Sometimes existing layouts, plumbing lines, or even cabinets can be repurposed or refinished. For example, through our sister company SwiftCoat, many clients save thousands by refinishing solid cabinets instead of replacing them.
4. Plan Ahead (and Stick to It)
One of the biggest budget busters? Mid-project changes. Moving walls after framing is done or picking a new tile after it’s been ordered adds costs fast. A clear plan and detailed selections up front help you avoid these surprise expenses.
5. Work With a Design-Build Firm
When your designer and contractor are on the same team, your project runs smoother—and more cost-efficiently. At Everstead, our integrated design-build approach eliminates miscommunication and keeps your remodel on track, saving both time and money.
The Bottom Line
Saving money on a remodel isn’t about finding the cheapest path. It’s about making smart choices, planning carefully, and working with a contractor you can trust. When you invest in the right areas and avoid unnecessary mistakes, you’ll enjoy a home that’s beautiful, functional, and built to last.
At Everstead, we help families across St. Louis remodel with confidence—without blowing the budget.
👉 Ready to plan your remodel the smart way? Schedule a free consultation with Everstead Design Build today.