THE PROJECT & COST RECOVERY CALCULATOR

Big ideas. Clearer numbers.

Explore a project budget, give yourself a cushion, and see how different resale assumptions change the picture.

01 / BUILD YOUR SCENARIO

Let’s give that idea
some numbers.

What are you planning?

Your estimated project cost ($)

Contingency reserve 15%

Extra room for unknowns. Choose a cushion that fits the work.

Assumed resale cost recovery 70%

An assumption you control—not a national average or appraisal prediction.

02 / YOUR BIGGER PICTURE

Budget including contingency$23,000$20,000 project + $3,000 reserve

Project

$20,000

Reserve

$3,000

Hypothetical value added at resale$14,000

Budget not covered by assumed resale value$9,000

A home improvement can be worthwhile for how you live in it. Resale value is only one part of that decision.

Include the actual scope: materials, labor, permits, cleanup, and applicable taxes. The tool doesn’t estimate local project prices.

Your contingency is a reserve, not a bill you have already paid. Update the plan as quotes and scope become clearer.

The calculation applies your recovery assumption to the base project cost. It excludes financing, holding costs, sale fees, and tax effects.

Compare written estimates for the same work, verify credentials, and understand payment terms. Read the FTC’s contractor guidance and our project planning tips.