When homeowners begin thinking about a renovation, a few questions tend to come up early in the process. At Story Hill Renovations, we believe that a successful project starts with clarity and trust. Below are some of the frequently asked questions we hear, and how our team approaches each one.
How Much Will the Project Actually Cost?
The final cost of a home renovation depends on the project scope, material and finish selections, and the existing conditions of the home. As a general guideline, our Milwaukee home remodeling projects typically begin at the following investment levels:
- The starting investment for a custom kitchen remodel is typically $150,000+
- Basement remodeling projects typically start at $140,000
- A full bathroom renovation generally requires a starting investment of $75,000
- Home additions, exterior renovations, and projects involving mulitiple spaces undergoing significant layout changes generally begin at $400,000.
As a design-build remodeling firm, we develop a detailed budget during the design phase so you have a clear understanding of your investment before construction begins. Our goal is to create a renovation that reflects your lifestyle, preserves the character of your home, and delivers lasting value. We are always happy to discuss your project and help determine whether Story Hill Renovations is the right fit for your renovation goals.
How Long Will the Renovation Take?
A home renovation timeline is determined by on the project’s oval size and scope.
Every Story Hill Renovations project begins with a 6- to 12-week design development phase, followed by construction lasting 8 weeks to 6 months, depending on the project type and scope. As a Milwaukee design-build firm, we use the design development phase to finalize layouts, material selections, construction details, and the complete project scope before construction begins. This upfront planning saves time, minimizes delays, and keeps your renovation moving efficiently.
Design Development: 6–12 Weeks
Construction Timelines:
- Kitchen renovation: 12–16 weeks
- Bathroom renovation: 8–12 weeks
- Basement renovation: 8–14 weeks
- Whole-home renovation: 4–6 months
Project complexity, permitting, material lead times, and existing home conditions can affect the final schedule. Once design development is complete, we provide a detailed construction schedule for your project.
Do I Need a Permit for my renovation?
Most home renovations in the require one or more permits, especially projects involving structural, electrical, plumbing, or mechanical work.
Story Hill Renovations regularly works with the cities, villages, and permitting departments serving Milwaukee, Wauwatosa, Whitefish Bay, Shorewood, Glendale, Fox Point, and Brookfield. Our team manages the permitting and inspection process on your behalf, helping ensure your renovation complies with applicable local building codes and regulations.
What Should I Remodel First?
Every home and family is different. During your in-home consultation, we help identify current pain points and prioritize projects based on how you use your space, overall timing, and long-term plans. For larger renovations, we can also develop a phased approach that makes sense for your life and budget.
Are You Licensed, Bonded, and Insured?
Yes. Story Hill Renovations is fully licensed, bonded, and insured. We are also proud members of NARI (National Association of the Remodeling Industry), reflecting our commitment to professional standards and best practices.
Can I Live in My Home During the Renovation?
In many cases, yes, most of our clients do. However, this depends on the scope of work. We’ll discuss expectations early so you can make informed decisions about temporary living arrangements if needed.
How Will You Protect My Home From Dust and Debris?
We take job-site protection seriously. This includes dust containment, floor protection, and daily clean-up practices to minimize disruption and protect your home throughout construction.
Who Will Be My Primary Point of Contact?
You’ll have a dedicated Project Manager and Interior Designer as your primary contacts. They work closely together to manage both the construction details and design intent, providing continuity from start to finish.
A renovation is a significant investment, and having the right information early makes all the difference. Our process is designed to guide you through each decision with clarity, professionalism, and care.
