Remodel Qs--how to minimize cost & maximize results

Stevyamda

Hi all, I know this type of issue has been discussed lots of times, but I'm hoping for some advice to help me think through my specific situation.

We are planning a partial basement remodel. Spaces needing renovation:
1) a semi-functional bathroom (toilet and non-working shower, but no sink)
2) a large L-shaped open space where one side of the L is our "bedroom," and the other is a family room.
3) laundry drain

What we want:
1) a bathroom that has BOTH a sink and a tub/shower!
2) a bedroom with a door that closes!
3) new water heater (current one is on its last legs)
4) fix laundry drain, probably replace old cast iron pipe.
5) insulate bare concrete walls

I'm trying to figure out whether we should be our own GC and do as much of our own work possible, or whether we should hire someone to do the whole thing. I managed to get 3 GC quotes, which ranged from $20K (guy who wants to work without a permit), $50K (solid company with great local reputation) to $85K (obviously out of the question).

We already worked with a professional to draw up plans (we needed help to navigate a few funky utility issues and weird spaces), so we are set there.

In the interest of keeping costs as low as possible, DH has floated the idea of doing it ourselves (except plumbing and electrical). I'm with him, but I also know we have limitations. We are competent DIY-ers, but far from pros. We are also busy people with full-time jobs and kids.

He is also hoping to skip the permit. He worries that getting a permit will not only slow the process but also trigger a property tax review and increase our tax burden (since we are adding a bedroom). I'm not OK with skipping the permit--I think doing that could cause issues down the road with insurance and more.

So my question to all you fine people:
Would we be nuts to take the GC role on ourselves? What would we need to consider to do that right?
How can I convince my spouse we need to permit this project (or is he right that we could go without)?


Other notes:
We have already installed egress windows.
The basement is really nice and dry. Carpet has obviously been down for 10+ years and has no mildew or mold issues.

Stevyamda

I see it’s been a while since you’ve posted, but I’m also planning a remodel and was curious — did anyone here end up trying to manage their own subcontractors instead of hiring a general contractor? I’ve heard mixed things, especially about budgeting and time delays. Wondering if that extra work pays off or ends up being more trouble than it’s worth. Would love to hear how things panned out for anyone who tried.

AlbertAmont

I cut costs by doing most of the demo and prep myself, then brought in pros for electrical and plumbing. The thing that really polished the look without blowing the budget was updating the interior mouldings — baseboards, window trim, and door casings. I used simple MDF profiles and painted them, and it made the rooms feel a lot more finished without spending much.