Dreaming of a fresh new look for your bathroom but dreading the cost and hassle of a full remodel? We completely understand. A total renovation can be overwhelming, not to mention expensive, but here’s the good news: you don’t always need to gut your entire bathroom to give it a whole new feel.

Sometimes, it’s the small changes that make the biggest impact. Whether you're looking for budget-friendly updates, creative storage solutions, or ways to modernize your space without tearing everything out, there are plenty of simple and effective ways to refresh your bathroom. From a fresh coat of paint to updating your lighting and swapping out accessories, you can transform your bathroom into a space that feels new—without a major renovation.

You’ve spent hours researching, collecting inspiration, and dreaming about your perfect kitchen or bathroom. You’ve even gotten a quote from a contractor, and it’s double the cost you expected! What happened?

Remodeling costs can be tricky because there’s more to them than just the beautiful finishes you see at the end. While homeowners often focus on the fun aspects of a remodel, like gleaming quartz countertops and stunning tile backsplashes, there are several layers of costs that are easily missed.

Understanding the four types of remodeling costs can help you budget wisely and avoid sticker shock. Let’s break them down in a way that makes sense.

Picture this: It’s a crisp New England morning, and you’re sipping your coffee in a kitchen that feels like it was designed just for you. Everything’s in its place, the countertops gleam, and the layout flows effortlessly. That dream can become your reality—but how do you turn those Pinterest boards and magazine clippings into a kitchen you’ll love? More importantly, how much will it cost?

That’s why we’re here: to provide clear, honest insights into kitchen remodel costs. This article is your guide, designed to answer your questions, set realistic expectations, and help you feel confident about the decisions ahead.

By the end, you’ll have a roadmap to help you choose the right option for your home and your budget.

Dreaming of a bathroom upgrade but unsure what it might cost in 2025? You’re not alone. For many homeowners in the New Hampshire seacoast area, remodeling a bathroom is one of the most exciting yet daunting projects to tackle. You want a space that feels functional, luxurious, and uniquely yours—but what’s the price tag for making those dreams a reality? Let’s break it down.

In this article, we’ll provide clear and honest insights into what you can expect to spend on four different types of bathroom remodeling projects. Whether you’re aiming for a simple facelift or diving into a full luxury renovation, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to make informed decisions.

Planning a bathroom remodel is an exciting journey, but it can also feel like stepping into uncharted territory. Where do you even begin? What steps come next? It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of decisions ahead, but take a deep breath—we’re here to help. Whether you’re envisioning a serene, spa-like sanctuary or simply aiming to refresh outdated fixtures, we’ll walk you through each phase of the remodeling process.

In this guide, we’ll start by addressing the big questions that often come up at the beginning of a bathroom remodel. Then, we’ll break down the entire process step by step, so you’ll feel empowered and ready to turn your dream bathroom into a reality. By the time we’re done, you’ll have a clear roadmap to follow and the confidence to move forward. Let’s get started!

Have you ever stepped into your bathroom and thought, This could use a little more sparkle and a lot less 1990s wallpaper? You’re not alone. Bathrooms often bear the brunt of daily wear and tear, and over time, even the most charming spaces can start to feel outdated or impractical.

That’s why bathroom remodels consistently rank among the most popular home improvement projects—and for good reason! A beautifully designed, functional bathroom can transform your daily routine, turning ordinary mornings into a touch of luxury and serenity.

Plus, let’s not forget the value boost a modern bathroom brings to your home. But before you dive into tile samples and faucet finishes, there’s one critical step you can’t skip: setting a budget. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about budgeting for your dream bathroom remodel, helping you feel confident and prepared every step of the way.

Remodeling a bathroom is an exciting journey. It’s your chance to turn a tired space into a tranquil retreat that meets your needs and style. But let’s be real: it can also feel overwhelming.

Between picking the perfect tiles, ensuring the plumbing is up to snuff, and managing your budget, there’s a lot to juggle.

Mistakes? They can happen to anyone. But here’s the good news—with the right guidance, you can sidestep those common pitfalls and enjoy a smoother remodeling process.

Today we’re going to talk about the top 10 mistakes homeowners make during a bathroom remodel and how you can avoid them.

Are you standing in your bathroom, picturing the perfect sink but feeling torn between the charm of a pedestal and the practicality of a vanity? Don’t worry—you’re not alone! Choosing between these two options can feel like a major decision, especially when you’re balancing style, functionality, and space considerations.

In this guide, we’ll answer the most common questions homeowners ask when weighing these options:

• What is the difference between a pedestal sink and a vanity?

• How does plumbing affect your choice?

• What are the cost differences?

• What are some common design mistakes to avoid?

• How do you decide which is right for your bathroom?

• And much more!

If you’re thinking about replacing your bathtub with a walk-in shower, you’re probably wondering if it’s the right move for your home. This is a big decision, and there are several factors to consider—from practical functionality to future resale value. Let’s explore this question in depth so you can feel confident about your choice.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about replacing a bathtub with a walk-in shower, including:

• Whether it’s okay to replace a tub with a shower

• How this change impacts resale value

• What to do if the tub you’re replacing is the only one in the house

• Factors affecting the cost of replacing a bathtub with a walk-in shower

• How long the project takes

• Pitfalls to avoid

• And much more!

By the end, you’ll have all the details you need to decide if this project is right for your home.

Picture this: you’re ready to update your floors, but you’re staring at samples of vinyl and laminate, wondering which one is the better choice. Both options are budget-friendly, stylish, and relatively easy to install—but which is right for your home? Have you been wondering:

• Do people even use laminate flooring anymore? 

• What is the difference between vinyl and laminate flooring?

• When would vinyl flooring be a better choice?

• When would laminate flooring be a better choice?

• Are there any pitfalls I need to avoid when installing laminate or vinyl flooring?

Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. Let’s walk through these two flooring options and uncover the pros and cons of each!

When it comes to designing your dream kitchen, there’s one decision that often sneaks up on homeowners: choosing the perfect sink. It’s not the first thing most people think about when dreaming of new cabinets or gleaming countertops, but the right sink can make a world of difference in your daily kitchen routine. One of the biggest debates? Single bowl vs. double bowl sinks.

If you’ve been standing in the middle of a kitchen showroom or scrolling through endless Pinterest boards wondering which option is best for you, you’re in the right place. In this blog, we’ll break down the ins and outs of both sink types to help you decide what’s best for your home in the New Hampshire seacoast. Let’s dive into some common questions homeowners have when choosing a kitchen sink:

Imagine this: Your kitchen remodel is well underway. The old cabinets are gone, the walls are exposed, and you’re dreaming of the day you can finally use your beautiful new space! Then suddenly, the contractor doesn’t show up! Days pass. You call, you email, but all you get is silence or vague excuses. Frustration turns to panic. Will your kitchen ever be finished?

If this feels familiar, you’re not alone. Sadly, many homeowners face this exact scenario. While there are legitimate reasons contractors may pause work temporarily, sometimes projects are abandoned entirely. The result? A stressful situation where homeowners feel stranded and unsure of what to do next.

Understanding why this happens can help you protect yourself and navigate these challenges with confidence.

If you’ve ever hired a contractor for a home remodeling project, you might have found yourself scratching your head. The crew arrives early, gets to work, and then, around midday or early afternoon, they start wrapping up and heading out! 

“Wait a minute,” you think. “That’s not a full 8-hour day! Where are they going? Why aren’t they here from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. like I expected?”

It’s a great question—and one that many homeowners have. Contractors and their crews operate a little differently from the typical 9-to-5 schedule you’re probably used to. The reasons might surprise you, but once you understand the behind-the-scenes logistics of a remodeling project, it all makes sense.

In this article, We’ll explore the common reasons contractors don’t work a full 8-hour day on-site, address some misconceptions, and even dive into the less-talked-about pitfalls of the industry. By the end, you’ll have a new appreciation for the complexity of remodeling projects—and how to choose a contractor who will keep your project on track.

You’ve probably heard it from everyone—your friends, neighbors, and even that home improvement article you found online: “Make sure your contractor is licensed and insured!” It’s practically Remodeling Rule #1, right?

But what if that shiny certificate isn’t quite the golden ticket it’s made out to be? What if a contractor’s license didn’t actually prove competence? And what if the skills needed to get a license weren’t even the qualifications your contractor truly needs for your remodeling project?

Today, we're peeling back the curtain on this well-kept industry secret! Let’s dive into the truth behind contractor licensing, and discover when it matters—and when it’s just not the golden ticket it’s made out to be.

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.

Imagine this: You’ve finally made the decision to remodel your kitchen or bathroom, and after months of planning and budgeting, you’re ready to get started. You’ve hired a contractor, picked out your dream fixtures, and you’re all set. But then, the dreaded “hidden costs” start creeping in, throwing your budget into disarray. What happened? Well, that’s exactly what we’re here to unravel.

Hidden costs in a kitchen or bathroom remodel can turn an exciting project into a stressful experience. We’ve seen homeowners in the New Hampshire seacoast area get caught off guard by unexpected expenses, and it’s not uncommon. Let’s dive into the most commonly overlooked costs that could impact your remodel—and most importantly, how to prepare for them.

Have you been staring at your kitchen walls and wondering, “Wouldn’t it look amazing with a beautiful tile backsplash?”

Whether you’re dreaming of your first backsplash or ready to refresh a dated one, this upgrade can completely transform your kitchen. It’s like adding the perfect necklace to a little black dress—practical, protective, and downright gorgeous!

But if you’re new to the world of tile backsplashes, you probably have a lot of questions, like:

• Can I install a backsplash in a kitchen that doesn’t have one?

• How big a job is it to replace a tile backsplash?

• Do I need to replace the countertops or cabinets when installing a new backsplash?

• How much does a tile backsplash cost in New Hampshire?

• Is my contractor installing my backsplash correctly?

• How hard is it to DIY a tile backsplash?

Let’s take a closer look at everything you need to know about adding or replacing a tile backsplash in your kitchen. By the end, you’ll feel confident in your options and ready to take the next step toward transforming your space!

Griffin and Lauren had been living in their charming Rochester, NH, home for eight years. Initially, they saw it as a temporary place, so they held off on making any significant updates. But as time went on, it became clear—this was the place they wanted to call home. That’s when Lauren declared, “Enough is enough—it’s time to make this kitchen my own!”

Like many homeowners in the New Hampshire seacoast, they were feeling the strain of a kitchen that didn’t quite fit their needs. Sure, it functioned, but it wasn’t the warm, inviting space they dreamed of. The dark cabinets felt heavy, the outdated laminate countertops were more of an eyesore than a feature, and storage? Let’s just say they were constantly battling to fit their growing collection of cooking gadgets.

It was time to turn their kitchen into a space they could truly enjoy—one that reflected their style and worked with their lifestyle.

What does cost-plus even mean? Is it just a fancy term for time & materials, or is it something entirely different? 

Navigating the world of remodeling contracts can be intimidating, especially if you’re not familiar with the industry lingo. That’s why we’re here to break down the difference between time & materials (T&M) and cost-plus contracts, so you can make an informed decision. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of how these contracts differ and when each one might be the right fit for your project.

And if you’re wondering, “Which contract type is best for my remodel?”—don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. We’ll get into that as well!

We know firsthand that planning a kitchen remodel is both an exhilarating journey and, let’s be honest, a bit overwhelming. It’s not just about picking cabinets or countertops; it’s about designing a space that becomes the heart of your home, where meals are shared, conversations flow, and memories are made. So, how do you choose a kitchen layout that fits your space, lifestyle, and family's needs?

In this guide, we’ll walk you through all the questions homeowners like you often ask when planning their dream kitchen. By the end, you’ll have a clearer vision of what layout makes sense for your home. Let’s dive into it!