Description

We’ve been in business for 15 years now and still consider it an important part of our jobs to educate our clients on what things actually cost. It seems like everybody is wanting to improve their homes after being cooped up for long during this pandemic, so we figured this was the perfect time to don our teacher hats and have the discussion about WHAT THINGS COST.

Before we dive in, we wanted to let you know that this episode is sponsored by Currey & Company.  Currey & Company is a family owned business based in Atlanta that we rely heavily on for distinctive lighting, furniture and accessories.  We invite everybody to visit their website curreyandcompany.com to see all their products or follow #curreyco or #curreycohospitality on Instagram to see tons of amazing photos of their products in homes.  

2. Countertops 

We find ourselves using mostly Quartz for countertops lately, but granite and marble are still very much in the game.  

Let’s review them all: 

• Marble – Marble is very luxurious and we LOVE the look but just be aware that marble is a bit of a diva. This natural stone is porous so it needs regular sealing and daily cleaning. It can also stain and chip so you won’t want to choose this for heavy use.  The cost is $75-$250/sq. ft. 
  
• Granite – Granite prices have dropped drastically in the last 10 years as it has gained popularity. The finishes tend to be a bit busier than Marble and quartz.  If we use granite, we prefer the finish to be leathered or honed. Cost is $45-$200 per sq. ft. 
  
• Quartz – Quartz is an engineered product so it won’t have the raw beauty of granite or marble but the variety of finishes is still amazing and the color is consistent so they tend to not be quite as busy to the eye. Quartz is non-porous and very tough. Cost is $55-$155/sq. ft. 
  

Notes:

a. Remnants, make sure to pick your slab for Marble and Granite
b. Prices quoted usually include install. 
c. Other options like Concrete, Butcher Block, Reclaimed Wood, Stainless Steel and laminate are options but we will discuss on another episode! 

3. Wallpaper 

If we had our way (and most of the time we do), we use wallpaper on every job. The cost varies widely depending on the quality, brand name and material but the average cost falls somewhere between $15-$50 per single rolls.  A few things to know about wallpaper from our experience: 

• Wallpaper is priced per single roll but in most cases sold in double rolls. 
  
• Leave the measuring to your wallpaper hanger – they will need to know the repeat and the material. 
  
• Super fun for powder rooms and laundry rooms 
  
• The average cost of labor to install: ?/roll
  

4. Decorative pillows

We don’t get much push back on our pricing, but eyebrows usually rise at the cost of quality throw pillows. Luxury throw pillows may cost upwards of $50 to $250 or more, especially if custom-made. Throw pillows are often expensive due to the fabric used, shape, and design. It is possible to find inexpensive throw pillows, but the quality of construction, level of design, and comfort may be sacrificed. 

A few things to note: 

• Hidden Zipper
  
• Inserts with 50% down and 50% feathers
  
• Inserts should be 2” bigger than the pillow cover for proper fullness so a 20x20” pillow would have a 22” insert. 
  
• Both sides fabric – some will have a cheaper solid fabric on the back. 
  
• Quality of fabric and workmanship

5. Hardwood floors 

Hardwood floors come in such a variety of materials, finishes and plank size that it can be very overwhelming – even for us! We will break it down for you. 

• Real Unfinished Hardwood Floors: Price will vary with wood species, plank width and length, finish and thickness.  Price: $5-$13/sq. ft..
  
• Engineered Hardwood floors: These are a real wood veneer over another wood like plywood. More durable than real hardwoods but you can only refinish once or twice. Cost is slightly more at $6-$15/sq. ft. 
  
• Vinyl Plank flooring (also call LVT or LVP): A more common choice these days due to great qualities such as being waterproof, won’t scratch or fade, doesn’t require wax is LVP. Cost: $2-$7/sq. ft. 

6. Furniture 

1. 1. Sofa:  Quality drives the price in all these areas - $500 - $4000
      
   2. Chair: $300-$1500
      
   3. Table/Chairs:  Chairs - $300-$800
      

Notes: 

• Think about your transport timeline – how long will you keep it? 
  
• How trendy are you? 
  
• Do you have kids/pets? 
  

 7. Lighting