Spoiler alert: It’s not just you—it’s the process.
You’ve got the vision. The mood boards are glowing. You picked the backsplash that gives you goosebumps. But wait—why is your designer or contractor coming back with new numbers? Didn’t we agree on a budget already?
Take a deep breath. Price changes during the design phase are normal—and in many cases, totally necessary. Here’s why it happens and how to stay in control of it all.
What you think you want at the start often shifts as you see samples, layouts, and real options.
- Your taste may lean more luxe than expected once you touch the materials.
- You might realize your lifestyle calls for different functionality (hello, custom pantry pull-outs).
- Designers often unlock possibilities you hadn’t considered—which can mean upgrades.
Pro Tip: Think of the design phase like dating your dream space. You learn more about what you need as you go.
Scope Creep happens; even when you swear it won’t.
It starts with “just updating the cabinets” and ends with “should we knock down this wall?” Sound familiar?
- Adding even one more feature (a pot filler, built-in wine fridge, second sink) affects multiple trades.
- Small changes in layout can require plumbing or electrical reroutes.
- As one element gets elevated, others often follow to match the vibe.
Pro Tip: Build a little “flex fund” into your budget for inevitable ooh-let’s-do-that-too moments.
Welcome to the rollercoaster of the real world. Pricing on everything from tile to timber can shift—fast.
- Freight, tariffs, shortages, and fuel costs can all impact supplier pricing.
- The longer your project takes to finalize, the more risk of price increases.
- Even seasonal changes can affect what’s in stock vs. what’s now special order.
Pro Tip: Lock in pricing when possible, and if you love something—order it early.
A design may look simple on paper but reveal complexities when the pros dig in.
- Custom work requires more hours and specialty trades.
- Unexpected layout challenges may require re-engineering.
- Permits, lead times, and availability of skilled labor can add to costs.
Pro Tip: Trust your contractor when they flag complexity early. It’s not “extra” labor—it’s smart planning.
Let’s be honest—you fell in love with the higher-end finish. And honestly? It’s worth it.
- Higher-end materials, fixtures, and appliances come with a price tag.
- Sometimes you upgrade out of necessity (for durability or warranties).
- This is your space—you deserve to love every part of it.
Pro Tip: Balance your budget by mixing highs and lows. Splurge where it counts, save where it doesn’t.
Designing a home is personal, layered, and sometimes unpredictable. If your pricing shifts during the process, it doesn’t mean someone messed up—it usually means the vision is getting more specific, more real, and more you.
Pro Tip: Communication is everything. Ask questions, get updates, and treat your budget as a living document.
Want a Remodel That Runs Smoother – and ends Better? Our design-build process takes the guesswork out of remodeling and gives you the confidence to move forward.
