Would Two Houses On the Same Street Cost the Same to Remodel?

In this video Erik strongly argues against the logical assumption that two similar houses on the same street should cost the same to remodel. The core problem, he explains, is the lack of standardized construction in the past.

"The crazy part about it is that there wasn't as many standards and regulations and rules on how to build a home back then," he says, referring to split-level homes from the '60s, '70s, and '80s. This meant two different builders could construct nearly the same house and still end up with structural differences—a small electrical panel, different framing techniques, or walls "they just would toss stuff together." These hidden variables found upon opening walls dramatically impact the scope and cost of a remodel or ADU conversion.

Beyond the home’s structure, client choices introduce massive cost swings. Erik emphasizes that a contractor who bids low—say, $100,000—to win the job is often forced to tack on $50,000 to $75,000 in change orders later, leaving the client with sticker shock. Erik’s approach is to be a "realist" and provide a blunt, upfront estimate—even if it's higher—to give the client a true understanding of the cost and avoid surprises, which he believes is what every client deserves.