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How we research home project costs

Every price on HouseCostWise comes from a published source that we name in the guide. Here is how a guide is put together.

1. We start from established cost publishers

We collect price data from long-running home improvement cost publishers and consumer sources, such as HomeGuide, Fixr, Angi, This Old House, Forbes Home, Bob Vila and Consumer Reports. We do not use anonymous forum posts or pages that do not show their figures.

2. Every number is tied to a quote from its source

For each figure we keep the exact sentence it came from. Before a guide is published, automated checks confirm that every dollar amount and percentage in the text appears in that saved source material, and that the guide names the source next to the number. Figures that cannot be traced back are removed.

3. We show ranges and say where they disagree

Sources often measure different things: one may quote a full installed project, another labor only, another a single region. We keep each figure's label (average, range, per square foot, per hour, regional) and point out when sources disagree instead of blending them into one number.

4. Editing and AI assistance

We use software tools, including AI, to help gather information and draft text. Drafts then go through a separate editorial review step, also software-assisted, that checks for unsupported claims, mislabeled figures and advice that goes beyond the sources. Safety-related work such as gas, electrical panels, roofs and structural changes is always flagged as a job for a licensed professional.

5. Updates and corrections

Each guide shows when it was published and last updated. If you find an error or know a better source, email [email protected] and we will review it.

Cost figures are estimates for general information only. Local prices vary, so get several written quotes before you hire. See our disclaimer and about page.