As a real estate professional in the Twin Cities, I’ve worked with countless homeowners who remodeled their homes before selling—and many who wish they had done things differently. Whether you’re updating a kitchen in Edina, finishing a basement in Minnetonka, or restoring a classic home in Saint Paul, hiring the right remodeling contractor is one of the most important decisions you’ll make.
The Twin Cities market is unique. We have a mix of historic homes, mid-century properties, and new construction, all with different requirements, permitting rules, and buyer expectations. In this guide, I’ll walk you through practical, local tips to help you hire a remodeling contractor with confidence and protect both your investment and your peace of mind.
Understand Your Remodeling Goals Before You Call Anyone
Be clear about scope, budget, and timeline
Before you reach out to contractors, take time to define what you want to accomplish. Are you remodeling for resale, long-term enjoyment, or to address functional issues? A kitchen refresh in Linden Hills may have very different priorities than a whole-home renovation in Wayzata.
Think through:
- The specific spaces you want remodeled
- Your realistic budget range, including a contingency buffer
- Your ideal completion timeline, especially if you’re planning to list your home
Clear goals help contractors give accurate bids and allow you to quickly identify who understands your vision.
Always Hire Licensed, Insured, and Local Contractors
Verify credentials specific to Minnesota
In Minnesota, residential remodelers must be licensed through the Department of Labor and Industry. Never skip this step. Licensing ensures the contractor meets state standards and provides access to consumer protections if something goes wrong.
Ask for:
- Minnesota residential remodeler license number
- Proof of liability insurance and workers’ compensation
- A physical business address, not just a P.O. box
Local Twin Cities contractors are also more familiar with municipal permitting requirements in Minneapolis, Saint Paul, and surrounding suburbs like Eden Prairie, Maple Grove, and Woodbury.
Get Multiple Detailed Estimates—Not Just One Number
Compare scope, materials, and timelines
It’s tempting to go with the lowest bid, but that’s rarely the best strategy. Instead, request at least three written estimates that clearly outline:
- Labor and material costs
- Specific materials and finishes
- Project timeline and milestones
- Payment schedule
If one estimate is significantly lower than the others, ask why. In many cases, key items are missing, which can lead to surprise costs later.
Ask the Right Questions During Contractor Interviews
Treat it like a professional vetting process
A reputable remodeling contractor will welcome thoughtful questions. During consultations, ask:
- How many similar projects have you completed in the Twin Cities?
- Who will be on-site managing the project daily?
- Do you use subcontractors, and how are they vetted?
- How do you handle change orders and unexpected issues?
Their answers will tell you a lot about communication style, experience, and professionalism—factors that matter just as much as craftsmanship.
Check References and View Local Work
Look beyond online reviews
Online reviews are helpful, but they shouldn’t be your only reference point. Ask contractors for recent Twin Cities clients you can contact directly. When possible, view completed projects in person, especially if you’re remodeling kitchens, bathrooms, or older homes.
Pay attention to:
- Quality of finishes
- How well the remodel fits the home’s architecture
- Whether the homeowner felt communication was clear and consistent
In neighborhoods with older housing stock like Highland Park or Tangletown, experience with historic homes is particularly valuable.
Insist on a Clear, Written Contract
Protect yourself before work begins
Never begin a remodel without a signed contract. A strong contract should include:
- Detailed project scope
- Start and completion dates
- Payment schedule tied to progress, not time
- Warranty information
- Process for handling changes or disputes
Avoid paying large upfront deposits. In Minnesota, contractors are limited in how much they can collect before work begins, and payments should align with completed milestones.
Understand Permits and Inspections
Make sure everything is done by the book
Permits are not optional for most remodeling projects, especially structural changes, electrical, plumbing, or additions. Your contractor should handle permits, but you should still confirm they’re pulled and closed properly.
Unpermitted work can delay future sales, reduce appraised value, and create legal issues. As someone who helps clients sell homes every day, I can tell you this is one of the most common and costly mistakes homeowners make.
Plan for Resale Value—Even If You’re Not Selling Yet
Remodel with the Twin Cities market in mind
Even if you plan to stay in your home, it’s wise to remodel with long-term value in mind. Neutral finishes, functional layouts, and quality materials tend to perform best in our local market.
I often advise homeowners to focus on:
- Kitchens and bathrooms with timeless design
- Energy-efficient upgrades suited for Minnesota winters
- Storage solutions and finished lower levels
If you’re unsure which projects will deliver the best return, I’m always happy to provide insight based on current buyer trends in the Twin Cities.
FAQs About Hiring a Remodeling Contractor in the Twin Cities
How far in advance should I book a contractor?
Quality contractors in the Twin Cities often book out several months, especially during spring and summer. Start your search early.
Should I hire a design-build firm or separate designer and contractor?
Both can work well. Design-build firms streamline communication, while separate professionals may offer more customization. It depends on project complexity.
What renovations add the most value locally?
Updated kitchens, bathrooms, and finished basements typically provide strong returns, especially in competitive neighborhoods.
Can remodeling help my home sell faster?
Absolutely. Strategic updates often lead to faster sales and stronger offers when done correctly.
Final Thoughts From Sally English
Hiring a remodeling contractor doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With careful planning, thorough vetting, and clear communication, you can create a space that enhances both your lifestyle and your home’s value.
If you’re considering remodeling with future resale in mind—or want guidance on which updates make sense for your neighborhood—I’d love to help. Connect with me to learn more about working together and making smart real estate decisions in the Twin Cities.
*Header photo courtesy of Sally English
