Remodeling costs

Have you ever looked at a remodeling quote and wondered, Am I paying more just because of where I live? It’s a valid concern, especially if you’re in an affluent neighborhood like Rye, Portsmouth, or New Castle, NH. Contractors sometimes get a bad rap for allegedly inflating prices in these areas, leaving homeowners wondering if they are being taken advantage of based on their ZIP code.

In this article, we’ll tackle this concern from every angle. We’ll address common fears, explain the assumptions contractors might make, and give you some insights into how you can tell if you are being charged a “Zipcode Tax.” Along the way, we’ll answer questions like:

• Why do remodeling projects in affluent neighborhoods cost more?

• How do contractors decide what to include in their quotes?

• Are there legitimate reasons for cost differences between neighborhoods?

• How can I make sure I’m not overcharged for my remodel?

By the end, you’ll feel confident in your understanding of contractor pricing—and empowered to make informed decisions for your remodel.

Have you been wondering why contractor quotes vary so much?

You probably expected there to be slight price differences, like when you’re shopping at different stores, but nothing as extreme as this! So, what gives? Why are these quotes all over the place?

When you asked the contractors about it, one contractor said their quote reflects better quality materials & workmanship, while another claims the higher price is simply a rip-off. So, who’s telling the truth?

Well, the reality is that neither answer gives you the full picture. Let’s take a deep dive into why contractor quotes can vary so widely and what you really need to look for when comparing them.

If you’re planning a home renovation in the New Hampshire seacoast region, you’ve probably heard advice like, “Always get three quotes for your project. Don’t hire the cheapest, don’t hire the most expensive—go with the middle one.” At first glance, this sounds like solid advice, but as you’ve likely experienced, comparing quotes is anything but straightforward.

Does this sound familiar? You reached out to several contractors—maybe 6 or 7—4 or 5 of them came to your home, and now you’ve got three different quotes. Great! All you have to do is choose the middle one, right?

But there’s a problem. Each quote is formatted differently, with varying levels of detail and wildly different price points. Now you’re left scratching your head. How are you supposed to make sense of this? How do you know if you’re comparing apples to apples? Why does this have to be so complicated?

In this article, we’ll answer your most pressing questions about the quoting process, help you understand what to look for, and give you the tools you need to make an informed decision. By the end, you’ll feel confident choosing the right contractor for your home renovation in NH.