How Much Do New Construction Upgrades Really Cost in Lake Stevens (And What Should You Budget)?
If you’ve been touring new construction homes, you’ve probably noticed something quickly:
The base price looks reasonable…
But once you start picking finishes, the price starts climbing.
So the real question becomes:
👉 “How much should I actually budget for upgrades?”
The Truth About Builder Pricing
The base price is not what most buyers end up paying.
It’s the starting point.
Once you go through the design process, you’ll choose things like:
Cabinets
Countertops
Flooring
Fixtures
Appliances
Structural options (like adding rooms or extensions)
What Buyers Typically Spend on Upgrades
In the Lake Stevens area, I’m seeing buyers spend anywhere from:
👉 $30,000 on the low end
👉 $75,000–$120,000 on average
👉 $150,000+ for heavily upgraded homes
It depends on:
The builder
The size of the home
How customized you want it
Why Buyers Get Caught Off Guard
The model home you walk through?
That’s usually fully upgraded.
So what you’re seeing:
Premium flooring
Upgraded kitchens
Designer finishes
…is not included in the base price.
Many of the buyers I work with don’t realize this until they’re sitting in the design center and the numbers start adding up quickly.
Which Upgrades Actually Matter
Not all upgrades are equal.
The ones that tend to matter most:
Kitchen layout and functionality
Cabinet quality and storage
Flooring (especially throughout main areas)
Cosmetic items like lighting or hardware can often be upgraded later.
Smart Strategy Buyers Use
Instead of upgrading everything:
Focus on structural upgrades first
Choose finishes that are harder to change later
Leave cosmetic upgrades for after move-in
Final Thought
New construction can be a great option—but only if you understand the full cost going in.
If you’re thinking about new construction in Lake Stevens, I can help you break down what your total investment would actually look like before you walk into the builder’s office.
If you’re thinking about moving to Lake Stevens and want a clear plan (not just more Zillow scrolling), reach out. I’ll help you map out your next move step by step.
Maricon Bashforth
Real Estate Broker in Lake Stevens, Washington
Helping buyers and sellers throughout Snohomish County and North King County
📞 (425) 318-2716
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