By New Beginnings Construction — Charleston, SC
If you’re planning a remodel and wondering “How far will $100,000 actually go?” — you’re not alone.
With today’s material costs, coastal building codes, and rising labor prices, homeowners throughout Charleston, Mount Pleasant, West Ashley, Kiawah Island, and Isle of Palms are asking the same question.
The answer depends on where you spend it, what you’re remodeling, and how strategic you are with your budget.
📍 Charleston’s Remodeling Reality in 2025
Remodeling in the Lowcountry is unique. Between coastal weather exposure, historic architecture, and premium finishes, Charleston-area renovations tend to cost slightly more than the national average.
For context:
- National average: $100K covers a mid-range whole-home renovation or a high-end kitchen + bath combination.
- Charleston average: $100K typically covers a major interior remodel (1–2 rooms) or a comprehensive partial renovation — especially if you’re using quality materials built for humidity, salt air, and long-term durability.
At New Beginnings Construction, we help clients stretch every dollar through clear scopes, smart design, and cost-effective selections that match both budget and lifestyle goals.
What $100,000 Can Realistically Cover
Here’s how that budget breaks down across common project types:
Kitchen Remodel ($60K–$100K+)
For Charleston kitchens, $100K can deliver a high-end transformation, including:
- Custom cabinetry (painted or stained wood)
- Quartz or granite countertops
- Upgraded plumbing fixtures and lighting
- New flooring (LVP, tile, or hardwood)
- Professional-grade appliances
- Layout changes or wall removal for open-concept living
👉 Tip: Removing walls or relocating plumbing/electrical always increases cost — but also adds resale value and flow, especially in older West Ashley and Mount Pleasant homes.
Bathroom Remodels ($25K–$60K each)
With $100K, you can complete:
- One luxury primary bath and one guest bath update, or
- Three to four mid-range bath remodels.
Expect features like:
- Walk-in showers with tile surrounds
- Freestanding tubs
- Custom vanities and quartz tops
- Designer fixtures and mirrors
- Improved ventilation and waterproofing (a must in Charleston’s humidity)
Whole-Home “Refresh” ($75K–$100K)
For smaller homes (under ~2,000 sq. ft.), $100K can go toward a whole-home refresh:
- New flooring, trim, and paint throughout
- Updated lighting and fixtures
- Minor layout improvements
- Partial kitchen and bath upgrades
This type of remodel works well for West Ashley ranch homes or James Island cottages — where improving flow, finishes, and function can drastically elevate resale value.
For a full home remodel, most homeowners in our region spend:
$100–$150 per square foot for standard remodels
$150–$300+ per square foot for high-end or custom projects
So for a 2,000-square-foot home, total remodel costs might range from $200,000 to $600,000+, depending on the scope and finishes.
Additions or Outdoor Living ($90K–$150K+)
In today’s Charleston market:
- A small primary suite addition or bonus room runs $90K–$150K+.
- A screened porch or covered patio addition typically ranges from $40K–$80K depending on size and materials.
- A complete outdoor kitchen or coastal-grade deck (using composite materials) often starts around $50K+.
👉 Many homeowners combine interior remodels with outdoor living upgrades for maximum lifestyle ROI.
What Affects How Far $100K Goes
- Scope Creep – Expanding the project mid-way (more rooms, custom finishes, layout changes) quickly eats into the budget.
- Structural or Hidden Issues – Charleston homes often hide surprises like moisture damage, rot, or code upgrades. Always plan a 10–15% contingency.
- Material Selections – Tile, fixtures, and cabinetry vary widely. Smart selections can maintain the aesthetic without blowing the budget.
- Permit and Design Costs – Especially in Charleston’s historic or coastal zones, plan for BAR or structural reviews when applicable.
- Energy-Efficient Upgrades – New doors, windows, and insulation may qualify for 2025 energy tax credits, offsetting some costs.
📈Remodeling Return on Investment
Home remodeling in Charleston often pays off — when done strategically.
Here’s what we typically see in the Lowcountry market:
| Remodel Type | Average ROI | Notes |
| Kitchen Remodel | 60–75% | Higher in high-end coastal homes |
| Bathroom Remodel | 55–70% | Spa-style features add appeal |
| Additions | 65–80% | Great for long-term enjoyment |
| Whole-Home Refresh | 70%+ | Especially valuable in older homes |
Beyond ROI, the real return is comfort, lifestyle, and longevity — a well-done remodel makes daily life better and extends the lifespan of your home.
Charleston Remodeling by Design
At New Beginnings Construction, we take a design-build approach — meaning we help you plan your remodel before construction begins.
That ensures:
- Accurate budgets
- Transparent timelines
- No surprise change orders
- Seamless coordination from design through completion
We’ll help you decide where your $100K makes the biggest impact — whether that’s a coastal-inspired kitchen remodel, bathroom suite upgrade, or a flow-focused open-concept transformation.
The Bottom Line
$100K can go a long way — when used wisely.
In Charleston, it can mean:
- A high-end kitchen remodel,
- A whole-home refresh,
- Or a mid-range addition that transforms how your home lives and feels.
If you’re planning a remodel, reach out to New Beginnings Construction — Charleston’s trusted design-build team — and we’ll help you map out a clear, detailed plan so your investment delivers exactly what you envision.
🏡 Ready to see how far your $100K can go?
Call New Beginnings Construction or visit nbc-sc.com to schedule a free design consultation today.
📐 Want a fast ballpark quote?
Try Our Free Estimator Tool
Use our free tool to estimate your remodel in under 90 seconds.
📍 Serving the Charleston Area
We remodel across Charleston, Summerville, Goose Creek, Mount Pleasant, Johns Island, and surrounding Lowcountry communities.
Let’s Start Planning Your Charleston Remodeling Project
Flexible Financing Options Available
We offer affordable financing options, including 0% interest plans and staged payments. Ask us how to finance your dream remodel without the stress.
📞 Call us today or request your free consultation:
Remodeling with purpose. Built on integrity.
