Remodeling your entire home is an exciting journey—but it requires smart financial planning. At NMG Contracting, we believe that understanding your remodel budget from the start is key to avoiding stress and unlocking your home’s full potential. If you're in Omaha and considering a whole-house renovation, here's a guide to help you budget wisely and confidently.
1. Start with a Clear Purpose
Before diving into numbers, define what you want to achieve. Are you modernizing an outdated home? Expanding for a growing family? Preparing for resale? Knowing your "why" will keep your priorities aligned and help you focus on the upgrades that matter most.
Pro Tip: Jot down a list of must-haves, nice-to-haves, and dream upgrades. It keeps you grounded and focused as you navigate pricing decisions.
2. Know What a Whole-Home Remodel Costs in Omaha
On average, budgeting 10% to 15% of your home’s value is a smart rule of thumb. For a $350,000 home in Omaha, that means planning for $35,000 to $52,000 depending on your goals, materials, and the extent of work.
Pro Tip: Break your budget into line items like kitchen, bathrooms, flooring, electrical, and exterior improvements. This will help you see where to invest and where to save.
3. Factor in the Hidden Costs
Whole-home remodels often reveal the unexpected—think outdated wiring, water damage, or structural surprises. Set aside at least 10% to 20% of your total budget for contingency expenses.
Also remember: permitting, cleanup, temporary lodging (if needed), and design consultations can all affect the final number.
4. Prioritize for ROI
Not all remodels have equal return on investment. Kitchens, bathrooms, and energy-efficient upgrades tend to offer the highest payback. If resale is on the horizon, be strategic about the improvements that appeal to Omaha buyers.
Pro Tip: Even small choices like new hardware or upgraded lighting can make a lasting impression without breaking the bank.
5. Set the Right Expectations
Budgeting doesn’t just mean numbers on a spreadsheet—it’s about aligning your timeline, lifestyle, and comfort zone. Be transparent with your contractor about your ideal spend, and make sure you get a detailed estimate that includes labor, materials, allowances, and taxes.
At NMG Contracting, we walk every Omaha client through a clear scope and budget plan so there are no surprises—just great results.
6. Creative Ways to Save Without Sacrificing Style
From using mid-tier finishes to repurposing existing cabinets or sourcing fixtures during sales, there are countless ways to keep costs down while achieving a beautiful outcome.
Pro Tip: Focus your investment on high-impact spaces—like the kitchen or main living areas—and consider staging other rooms over time.
Let’s Build a Home That Works for You—and Your Budget
Remodeling your home doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right planning and a contractor you can trust, the results are transformational. If you’re ready to explore your remodeling goals, NMG Contracting is here to help you budget smart, build beautifully, and love where you live.
Contact NMG Contracting Today to schedule a consultation in Omaha, NE.
