I'm considering buying a 3,000 sqft fixer-upper, and I've already got a estimate for basement waterproofing between $15-20K. The basement is pretty big (about 1,000 sqft) and needs some serious attention. Beyond waterproofing, what other costs can I expect to make it livable? Also, the carpet on the top floor is in really bad shape; how much should I budget for cleaning or replacing it? I've attached some photos for reference [here](https://imgur.com/a/i4gstXJ). I'm in a situation where I can't afford a decent home without going for a fixer-upper since prices in my area are crazy. Any advice would be appreciated!
3 Answers
A good rule of thumb is budgeting around $100/sqft for these types of fixes. But make sure to get multiple quotes—between the waterproofing and any mold issues, it can add up quickly. Getting a French drain system installed could be a game-changer to keep moisture at bay.
Honestly, jumping into a project like this might be overwhelming. You might want to consider starting with something smaller, especially if it's your first home.
I hear you! I'm just trying to make it work since this is one of the few options I have for a 3,000 sqft home.
You'll probably need some DIY skills if you don’t want to spend a fortune. Just a heads up, most projects will cost more than you expect—plan for multiple years of work and thousands spent on materials. Start with waterproofing; you'll want to fix any exterior drainage issues first to prevent water damage. Take a good look at your foundation too—there could be more damage than you anticipate.
Yeah, I definitely need to learn some DIY! The foundation guy mentioned only waterproofing for now, but I guess I should be prepared for more.
Got it, so starting with the waterproofing is crucial. Is there a rough estimate on how much it would cost to tackle any mold problems?