Dreaming of a better home? Before you pick up a paintbrush or hire a contractor, there’s one thing you need to master first: the budget. Whether you’re updating a kitchen in Tyler, replacing the roof in Longview, or remodeling a guest bathroom in Whitehouse, smart planning starts with knowing your numbers. That’s why we’ve created this friendly, step-by-step Home Renovation Budgeting Guide—designed specifically for East Texas homeowners who want quality results without financial surprises.
Let’s dive into how to plan your renovation right from the start—and save yourself time, stress, and money.
Let’s get started.
Step 1: Define Your Renovation Goals
Start by asking yourself: What do I want to improve, and why?
- Are you updating for style, function, or resale value?
- Do you need more space, or are you making your home more energy efficient?
- Is it a full home renovation or just one room?
👉 Pro Tip: Write a clear “needs vs. wants” list. This will help when tough decisions come up.
Step 2: Understand the Scope of Work
The cost of your renovation depends heavily on what’s being done.
Common renovation types include:
- Cosmetic updates (painting, new flooring, light fixtures)
- Mid-level renovations (kitchen refresh, bathroom upgrades)
- Structural or major remodeling (wall removal, additions, layout changes)
The bigger the scope, the higher the cost—and the more planning you’ll need.
Step 3: Research Typical Costs in East Texas
Every region is different, and here in East Texas, prices are often more affordable than in big cities—but materials and labor still vary.
Estimated price ranges:
- Basic bathroom update: $4,000–$12,000
- Kitchen renovation: $10,000–$40,000+
- Whole-house renovation: $20,000–$100,000+
👉 Tip for Locals: Get 2–3 quotes from trusted contractors in Tyler, Lindale, or Kilgore to get realistic numbers based on local costs.
Step 4: Set a Realistic Budget
Now that you understand your needs and the price range, it’s time to build your actual home renovation budget.
Break it down like this:
- Labor (30–40%) – Contractors, painters, plumbers, electricians
- Materials (30–40%) – Flooring, tile, cabinets, paint, fixtures
- Design & Permits (10–15%) – If needed, especially for major changes
- Contingency (10–20%) – For surprises (and yes, there will be some)
🎯 Goal: Your budget should cover all these areas comfortably, without touching your emergency savings.
Step 5: Prioritize & Phase If Needed
If your wish list is bigger than your wallet, that’s okay! Renovations don’t have to happen all at once.
Split projects into phases:
- Phase 1: Paint, fixtures, flooring
- Phase 2: Kitchen and bath remodels
- Phase 3: Room additions or exterior work
Phasing lets you spread out costs over time and keeps things manageable.
Step 6: Choose the Right Contractor
Look for experience, quality, and honesty—not just the lowest bid. Your contractor is your renovation partner, and a good one can help you stay on budget.
Look for:
- Licensed and insured companies
- Clear, written estimates
- Positive reviews in the East Texas community
- A portfolio of before-and-after projects
📍 Tip: Companies like Jaime’s Construction & Remodeling LLC in Tyler are trusted for their transparency, timelines, and local expertise.
Step 7: Track Expenses and Stay Flexible
Once work begins, keep a spreadsheet or use budgeting apps to track:
- Invoices
- Material costs
- Extras or upgrades
- Change orders
If surprises come up (like hidden water damage), your contingency fund will keep the project on track.
Bonus Tips to Save Without Sacrificing Quality
- Shop sales or clearance items for materials
- Use mid-range finishes that look high-end
- Repurpose or refresh existing elements (cabinets, hardware)
- Time your renovation during off-peak seasons for better contractor availability
Home Renovation Budgeting Guide: Why It Matters
Budgeting isn’t just about money—it’s about peace of mind. With the right plan in place, you’ll avoid stress, avoid delays, and enjoy the process a whole lot more.
Remember: A renovation is an investment in your comfort, your happiness, and your home’s value.
Ready to Get Started?
If you’re ready to bring your vision to life, our team at Jaime’s Construction & Remodeling LLC is here to help. With over a decade of experience in painting, construction, and home remodeling, we’re proud to serve the East Texas community with craftsmanship you can trust.
📍 Tyler-based. Locally owned. Fully insured.
📞 Call us today at (903) 245-5824
🌐 Visit: painting-construction.com
📧 Email: boricuabacan@yahoo.com
✅ Licensed & insured | 🏡 Trusted local experience | 📞 Free consultations
Your home deserves the best—and so do you. Let’s build something beautiful together.
—From your friends at Jaime’s Construction & Remodeling