Design-Build Blog - Hanson Remodeling - Minneapolis

How Much Does It Cost to Finish a Basement in Minneapolis?

Written by Hanson Remodeling | Dec. 18, 2024

Basement finishing and remodeling in Minneapolis is popular for many homeowners because it transforms a space that you already have into something new. Finishing your basement is one of the easier ways to add livable space, but it's important to first consider the cost of remodeling the basement in your Minneapolis home. In this blog post, we’ll break down the cost considerations for a basement remodel in Minneapolis and highlight what influences the price, including the space size, existing conditions, and finishing details.

What is the Cost Range for Remodeling a Basement in Minneapolis?

One of the most important questions you can ask is about the cost range for remodeling or finishing a basement. The average cost of a basement remodel in Minneapolis ranges between $150,000 to $250,000. However, this range can shift depending on the complexity and scale of your project. Basement remodels can vary in scope, from straightforward finishes to complete overhauls that require time and cost-intensive infrastructure work.

How Much Does it Cost to Remodel Your Basement?

At Hanson Remodeling, our approach is collaborative. We sit down and get to know you. This means we begin by understanding your goals, lifestyle, and how you plan to use your newly finished space. Whether you need a new bedroom, a playroom for the kids, or a home theater, every project is different. That’s why we don’t have pre-built designs ready to go deep in a warehouse. The cost of your particular basement remodel hinges on a variety of factors and choices and may look different from your neighbor's basement remodeling budget.

How Do Factors Like Basement Size, Existing Conditions, and Intended Use Affect Remodeling Costs?

Several main factors influence the overall cost of your Minneapolis basement remodel. You'll notice that many overlap, so you may have to consider one or all of these factors in some way.

1. Age and Conditions 

As a Minneapolis basement contractor experienced in historic homes, we know how age impacts the pre-existing condition of your basement. Basements in historic homes were not initially designed to be habitable. In these cases, addressing foundational issues is often necessary. We may need to remove the existing slab, rework low ceilings, or replace outdated mechanical systems such as boilers and asbestos-covered pipes. This earthy work all adds to your overall basement finishing cost.

Additionally, basements must meet specific building codes, especially if you plan to create sleeping spaces. This might involve adding egress windows, upgrading insulation, or updating electrical and plumbing systems. If your current staircase doesn’t meet code, rebuilding it will be an extra expense.

2. Size of the Basement

Larger basements naturally require more materials and labor, which drives up costs. Whether you have a small 600-square-foot space or a sprawling 1,500-square-foot basement, the size will significantly affect your budget. On average, basement finishing projects in the Twin Cities cost $150 to $500 per square foot, depending on the extent of customization and finishing details you choose. As you can see, the range varies greatly. One of the ways you can discern your remodeler's experience is whether or not they can speak cogently on the various factors impacting your remodel. 

3. Mechanical Systems

Rerouting mechanicals is a common challenge in older homes. If you need to move boiler pipes that are too low and covered in asbestos or generally move around mechanicals, this impacts your basement remodeling budget. 

At Hanson Remodeling, we pride ourselves on working together with our clients. Customer service is achieved together, which means walking you through every potential challenge and ensuring you’re comfortable with the plan before moving forward.

Intended Use

The function of your basement also plays a significant role in determining your basement remodel’s cost. A simple family room with drywall, basic flooring, and lighting will cost far less than adding a kitchenette, a bathroom, or a full suite for guests. Bathrooms, for instance, are one of the most expensive components to add to a basement. Working with a remodeler who will walk you through this process and not spring surprise expenses on you is important. 

Finishes and Custom Features

Those finishes and custom features you've painstakingly chosen can play a notable role in influencing the final cost of a basement remodel in Minneapolis. Higher-end materials like custom cabinetry, hardwood flooring, or luxury tile will naturally be more expensive. As an example, one of the popular trends we're seeing is handmade tile paired with unique decorative shelf designs, which can raise costs but create a visually stunning and unique space.

What Are Some Ways to Keep Basement Remodeling Costs Within Budget?

While basement remodels can be a substantial investment, there are ways to keep costs manageable without sacrificing quality. Every basement remodel is a custom experience, which means there are a variety of methods that help you keep how much a basement remodel costs in check.

1. Work with Professionals

There are quite a few basement finishing companies in Minneapolis, but fewer companies with decades of experience with historic homes and a commitment to remodeling a basement that matches your lifestyle and needs. By working with an experienced remodeler, you can save yourself the time and money that often is lost because of simple mistakes.

2. Prioritize Your Needs

Think about what you really need in this reimagined space. Are you prioritizing an extra bedroom or a home theater? Knowing your primary goals helps avoid unnecessary expenses or stopping and starting. Hanson Remodeling is the team that will sit and listen to you, understanding your priorities so that we can guide you in making choices that align with your vision and budget. Not sure what you want? Our experts can help guide you throughout the process. 

3. Understand the Investment

Given the average cost of a basement remodel in Minneapolis, it's no surprise that this is a hefty investment. You can use your money wisely and comfortably by planning for the investment just as much as you plan for your basement remodel in your Minneapolis home. 

Working with the right basement remodeling contractor doesn't necessarily mean the lowest price point. It means that you know where your money is going and understand how your hard-earned finances work for you.

What Is the Most Expensive Part of Finishing a Basement?

The most expensive aspects of a basement remodel are often infrastructure-related, such as foundation, plumbing, and electrical work. If you’re adding a guest suite, for instance, installing new plumbing for a bathroom can quickly increase your basement remodeling costs. Other situations like addressing structural issues like raising ceilings or dealing with moisture remediation can add to the expense.

We aim to create spaces that reflect your personality and needs. Your home is not just another project for us. It’s your home. We take pride in delivering a finished product that not only meets, but exceeds your expectations.

Your Trusted Minneapolis Basement Remodeler 

At Hanson Remodeling, we don't just know basement finishing and remodeling; we know Minneapolis. But more importantly, we want to know you. Our team works diligently to bring expert advice and knowledge not only to the hands-on portion of your project but also to the discussions and relationship-building part of working with us. When you work with Hanson Remodeling, you benefit from decades of experience and knowledgeable tradespeople and designers on staff with us. We work hard to establish processes that make it easy for you to make and communicate choices with us. 

Contact Us

Ready to discuss your basement finishing project in Minneapolis? We’re here to listen, plan, and bring your vision to life. 

Contact us today to start planning your dream basement!