How to Budget for a Remodel in South Louisiana

Cajun Conservation
Oct 15
2 min read

Whether you’re planning a bathroom remodel in Lafayette, a kitchen upgrade in Crowley, or a whole-home restoration of a historic Acadian cottage, one thing is true: remodeling is a big investment. And in South Louisiana, where our climate, culture, and building traditions are unique, budgeting takes extra care.

At Cajun Conservation, we’ve helped families, retirees, and investors across Acadiana plan remodels that stay on budget — without sacrificing quality. Here’s how to create a budget that works for your goals.

Step 1: Define Your Remodel Goals

Families: Function and comfort — kitchens, bathrooms, and porches.
Retirees: Accessibility and preservation of historic charm.
Investors: Resale value and smart upgrades that increase ROI.

Pro Tip: The clearer your goals, the easier it is to prioritize spending where it matters most.

Step 2: Know the Average Costs in Acadiana

Bathroom Remodels: $20,000 – $35,000
Kitchen Remodels: $35,000 – $60,000
Whole-Home Remodels: $150,000 – $300,000+
Historic Restorations: $200,000 – $500,000+

(Costs vary depending on scope, finishes, and whether the home is historic or modern.)

Pro Tip: In older homes, always budget 15–20% extra for hidden issues like outdated plumbing, wiring, or foundation repairs.

Step 3: Break Down Your Budget

Typical remodel budget allocation:

Cabinetry & Fixtures: 30–40%
Labor: 25–35%
Appliances & Equipment: 10–15%
Flooring, Paint, Finishes: 10–15%
Permits & Professional Fees: 5–10%

Step 4: Plan for Louisiana’s Climate

Humidity: Choose moisture-resistant flooring, paints, and finishes.
Flooding Risks: Consider raised cabinetry or flood-proof materials.
Hurricane Season: Schedule major remodels in fall or early spring to avoid weather delays.

Pro Tip: Climate-smart choices may cost more upfront, but they prevent costly repairs later.

Step 5: Work with the Right Contractor

A good contractor doesn’t just build — they help you budget wisely. At Cajun Conservation, we:

Provide detailed estimates (not vague ranges).
Help clients choose where to save vs. invest.
Handle permits and inspections, saving time and money.

FAQs About Remodeling Budgets in South Louisiana

Q: Can I remodel in phases to spread out costs?A: Yes. Many families remodel kitchens first, then bathrooms, then porches — spreading costs over time.

Q: What’s the #1 hidden cost in remodels?A: System upgrades — plumbing, wiring, or foundation work in older homes.

Q: Should I finance my remodel?A: It depends. For resale-driven projects, financing can make sense if the upgrades boost value significantly.

Why Choose Cajun Conservation

At Cajun Conservation, we don’t just build — we guide you through the budgeting process with transparency and expertise.

Realistic cost planning Historic home expertise Clear communication from start to finish

Ready to Build Your Remodel Budget?

Don’t let unexpected costs derail your remodel. Whether you’re updating a family home, restoring a historic cottage, or preparing an investment property, Cajun Conservation can help you budget with confidence.

Schedule your free consultation today and let’s build your remodel plan together.