The Simple Formula to Estimate Renovation Costs (2025 Numbers) | Bigger Pockets Podcast

Your agent just sent you a killer real estate deal with enormous upside, but it needs a bit of work. Here’s exactly how to estimate renovation costs, so you know you’re buying a property with a juicy margin instead of one that will just break even. Whether you’re renovating a rental property, planning to refinance after the rehab with the BRRRR method, or flipping a house for some quick cash, we’ll give you the formula to run your renovation numbers FAST. 

We’re back with real estate investor questions from the BiggerPockets Forums. First up: how to estimate rehab costs on a distressed property. And, if the renovation costs are high, is the rehab still worth it? Then, once you’ve got your rental portfolio, when should you hire property management?

Your agent wants you to sign an exclusivity agreement so you only work with them; here’s when we will (and definitely won’t) do it. Finally, we share a way to access home equity WITHOUT refinancing at a higher rate and killing your cash flow.

Got a question? Need answers? Share your real estate investing situation on the BiggerPockets Forums. 

In This Episode We Cover

How to estimate rehab costs and the price-per-square-foot guidelines to follow

Accessing home equity without refinancing (a way better option in 2025)

How much money should you make on a flip? Why even $40,000 may be too low

When to hire a property manager and signs that one will actually take care of your tenants/property 

Whether or not to sign an exclusivity agreement with your real estate agent 

And So Much More!

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