If you’re a homeowner looking to fix up your place or an investor planning to flip for profit, knowing which repairs might break the budget is essential. In this post, I’ll share the top five most costly repairs we often see in San Antonio. These are areas where many people get hurt by not accounting for the right costs from the start.
1. Foundation Repairs
Foundation issues are common in San Antonio, and repairs can add up quickly. Costs vary depending on the foundation type—whether it’s pier and beam or slab, the home’s size, and the degree of damage. For a pier and beam foundation, expect a baseline of around $4,000 to $5,000, possibly more if the home has major settling issues. Slab foundation repairs start at $10,000 and can reach up to $30,000 or even $40,000 in some cases. To avoid surprises, get multiple bids, especially if you’re new to estimating foundation costs.
2. Major Plumbing Issues
Major plumbing repairs often involve the sewer line rather than simple leaks or faucet replacements. In homes with slab foundations, fixing sewer line cracks means digging through the foundation, which gets costly. Older homes with cast iron plumbing may require a full sewer line replacement, especially if minor fixes won’t cut it. If major plumbing repairs are necessary, plan on spending several thousand dollars, or potentially $10,000 or more to replace sewer lines under a slab foundation.
3. Roof Replacements
The cost of roof repairs or replacements depends on factors like roof size, pitch, material, and underlying damage. For smaller homes, expect to spend around $5,000, but that number goes up for larger homes or premium materials like metal roofing. If the roof has been leaking for years, additional costs may arise from needing to replace decking (the wood beneath shingles). This can add several thousand dollars, so if you see signs of long-term leakage, factor that into your budget.
4. HVAC Systems
Replacing an HVAC unit starts in the several-thousand-dollar range, but costs can escalate if additional work is required. For instance, older homes without central air may need ductwork installation, a slab for the exterior unit, and sometimes electrical panel upgrades. Electrical upgrades, along with the necessary ductwork and mounting, can push up the total cost significantly. When budgeting for HVAC replacements, remember to consider all related costs.
5. Electrical Overhauls
Minor electrical fixes aren’t too costly, but a full rewire can easily reach the $8,000–$9,000 range. Rewiring a house is not only labor-intensive but often requires upgrading panels, adding outlets, and ensuring the system meets code, adding up fast. It’s a significant expense to consider, especially if the home has an outdated or unsafe electrical system.
Other high-cost repairs include mold remediation, siding replacements, and extensive flooring projects, all of which can also add thousands of dollars to a project. Often, these repairs don’t happen in isolation; for instance, fixing the foundation might lead to plumbing issues, or upgrading HVAC could require electrical work.
Tips for Managing Repair Costs
For those new to this, don’t rush through the budgeting process. Get quotes from several contractors to compare prices, and work with someone experienced to help guide you. Costs can vary widely, and some unexpected repairs can quickly blow past your initial budget. By planning carefully, you’ll avoid being halfway through a project only to realize you’re thousands over budget.
Need Help?
For more information on repairs or for help with selling your property, reach out to us at SellMySanAntonioHouse.com or give us a call at 210-201-6644. We’re here to help!