Renovating a home in New Jersey is one of the most rewarding investments a homeowner can make. From modernizing interiors to improving energy efficiency and upgrading exteriors, a well-executed renovation transforms not only how your home looks, but how it functions every day.
This guide provides a clear breakdown of renovation costs by trade, explains soft costs and permitting, and includes a sample budget for a full home renovation so you can plan with confidence.
Key takeaways: New Jersey home renovation costs
- Full home renovations in New Jersey typically range from $150–$400 per sq. ft., depending on finishes, customization, and scope.
- Homes often require a mix of interior and exterior work, including kitchens, bathrooms, basements, roofing, siding, and driveways.
- Township-level permitting is required for plumbing, electrical, structural, and exterior work, and each municipality has its own process and fees.
- Extensions, garage conversions, and outdoor living upgrades are among the most popular value-adding projects.
- Working with a design-build firm like Chapter ensures a streamlined process from architectural planning through construction and finishes.
Trade-by-trade cost breakdown
Demolition
- $7–$12 per sq. ft. for full gut demolition.
Carpentry & framing
- $30–$45 per sq. ft. for layout changes or new additions.
Plumbing
- $1,500–$2,500 per fixture replacement.
- $6,000–$15,000+ for full system upgrades.
Electrical
- $8,000–$12,000 per floor rewiring.
- $12,000–$20,000+ for a full home rewire with new panels.
HVAC
- $12,000–$25,000 for central systems.
- $3,000–$5,000 per zone for ductless mini-splits.
Roofing
- Asphalt shingles: $6–$10 per sq. ft. installed.
- Metal roofing: $12–$18 per sq. ft. installed.
Siding
- Vinyl: $6–$12 per sq. ft.
- Fiber cement: $10–$16 per sq. ft.
- Natural wood: $12–$20 per sq. ft.
Windows & doors
- Windows: $700–$1,500 each.
- Entry doors: $1,800–$5,000 each.
Driveways
- Asphalt: $6-$12 per sq. ft.
- Concrete: $10-$16 per sq. ft.
- Pavers: $18-$25 per sq. ft.
Garage Doors & conversions
- Replacement garage door: $2,000–$5,000.
- Premium insulated/custom doors: $5,000–$12,000.
- Conversion to living space: $25,000–$60,000 depending on HVAC, insulation, and finishes.
Flooring
- Hardwood: $10–$20 per sq. ft.
- Tile: $12–$35 per sq. ft.
Tile & stone
- Kitchens and baths: $15–$35 per sq. ft.
- Premium stone: $45–$100 per sq. ft.
Painting
- Interior: $5–$9 per sq. ft.
- Exterior: $3–$6 per sq. ft.
Decks & outdoor living
- Pressure-treated wood: $15-$25 per sq. ft.
- Composite decking: $30-$60 per sq. ft.
- Outdoor kitchens and covered patios: $20,000-$50,000+.
Basement finishing
- $60,000-$100,000 depending on size and customization.
Millwork & cabinetry
- Kitchen cabinetry: $700-$2,000+ per linear ft.
- Custom built-ins: $5,000-$25,000.
Soft costs in NJ renovations
- Architectural Drawings: $3,000-$15,000+
- Interior Design: $4,000-$10,000
- Engineering (structural/foundation): $2,000-$7,500
- Municipal Permits: $1,500-$7,500 depending on township
- HOA/Community Fees (if applicable): $500-$2,500
Sample budget for a 2,500 sq. ft. full home renovation
FAQs about full home renovations in New Jersey
Do I need permits for a home renovation?
Yes. In New Jersey, most renovations require township-issued permits to ensure the work meets local building codes and safety standards. This includes permits for plumbing, electrical, structural changes, roofing, siding, driveways, additions, and garage conversions.
Every municipality in New Jersey has its own permit process, which can vary in complexity. Chapter manages the entire permitting process for you, from preparing drawings and submitting applications to coordinating inspections and final approvals, so your renovation remains compliant and on schedule.
Can I convert my garage into living space?
Yes, garage conversions are very common in New Jersey and can add valuable square footage to your home. Many homeowners use this space to create guest suites, home offices, gyms, or in-law apartments.
Most towns require permits and inspections for structural changes, insulation, heating and cooling, and electrical upgrades to bring the space up to residential living standards. Chapter designs and builds garage conversions that meet all local codes and blend seamlessly with your home’s architecture.
How long does a full home renovation take?
A complete home renovation in New Jersey typically takes 8 to 14 months from start to finish, depending on the size, complexity, and customization level.
The timeline includes design, permitting, demolition, construction, and finishing. Homes that require structural work, additions, or extensive exterior upgrades may take longer.
Chapter’s design-build model helps streamline the process by overlapping design and pre-construction work whenever possible, allowing construction to begin as soon as approvals are ready.
What’s included in soft costs?
Soft costs refer to all the non-construction expenses required to plan and prepare your project. These typically include:
- Architectural plans and engineering reports
- Interior design services and material selections
- Permits and municipal filing fees
- HOA or neighborhood association fees (if applicable)
- Project coordination and expediting At Chapter, we provide transparent cost breakdowns so you understand exactly what’s included before work begins. There are no surprises or hidden fees.
Will renovating my home increase its value?
Absolutely. A well-planned renovation is one of the most effective ways to increase your home’s resale value and market appeal. Projects like kitchen remodels, bathroom upgrades, new flooring, and exterior improvements often offer the best return on investment.
In New Jersey’s competitive housing market, modern, turnkey homes typically sell faster and at higher prices. Chapter’s design-build approach ensures every renovation enhances both the functionality and long-term value of your home.
Start your New Jersey home renovation with Chapter
A full home renovation is a major undertaking, and you need a partner who can handle every detail. Chapter’s design-build model brings architects, designers, engineers, and builders together under one roof. With our Renotech™ Client Portal, you’ll have daily updates, progress photos, budgets, and communication tools at your fingertips.
If you want quality craftsmanship, transparent pricing, and a stress-free renovation experience, Chapter is your best choice.