Always address structural issues, roof repairs, and mechanical systems (HVAC, plumbing, electrical) before cosmetic upgrades. This approach prevents costly rework and ensures a solid foundation for finishes.

At Riverstone Builders in Woodbury, MN, we’re proud to be known as residential remodelers or home renovation contractors. Whether you’re in Cottage Grove, Lake Elmo, Dellwood, or Mahtomedi, our licensed team handles everything from design and permits to carpentry and finishing touches.

For the best ROI and daily enjoyment in Woodbury and surrounding suburbs, start with unfinished basements, the primary bedroom, and the kitchen.

A general contractor oversees all aspects of a construction project—new builds or major additions—while a remodeler specializes in upgrading existing spaces like kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and decks. Riverstone Builders holds a general contractor license but focuses on residential remodels throughout the Twin Cities East metro area.

For a smooth project in Cottage Grove, Lake Elmo, Dellwood, Mahtomedi, or Woodbury, you’ll typically work with:

• A licensed general contractor (project manager)
• An architect or designer (layout & permits)
• Skilled tradespeople (carpenters, electricians, plumbers)
  Riverstone Builders coordinates all trades under one roof to keep communication clear and schedules tight.

The “30% rule” recommends spending no more than 30% of your home’s market value on improvements. Sticking to this guideline helps homeowners in Woodbury and the surrounding suburbs protect their return on investment and avoid overcapitalizing.

For East metro home updates, a specialized residential remodeler like Riverstone Builders often delivers more competitive pricing than a full-service construction firm, because we focus exclusively on renovation and have established trade partnerships in Woodbury and beyond.

Select a remodeler who:

• Holds a valid MN contractor’s license and carries insurance
• Provides local references and allows you to tour completed projects
• Offers transparent, written estimates
• Communicates clearly and responds promptly
  Meeting face-to-face with your Woodbury remodeler ensures a good fit for your home vision.

Yes—especially for targeted updates in our region. In Woodbury and nearby suburbs, a $50,000 budget can cover a mid-range bathroom or kitchen refresh, or a partial basement finish when you work with a contractor like Riverstone Builders who specializes in maximizing value.

In this region, homeowners typically allocate 5–15% of home value for mid-range projects and 20–30% for whole-home overhauls. Always build in a 10–15% contingency for unexpected expenses in Woodbury, Cottage Grove, Lake Elmo, Dellwood, or Mahtomedi.

Remodelers in this area calculate costs based on:

• Labor rates
• Materials & fixtures
• Permits & fees
• Overhead & profit margin

Homeowners in Lake Elmo, Dellwood, Mahtomedi, Cottage Grove, and Woodbury commonly use:

• Home equity loans / HELOCs
• Refinancing
• Cash savings
• Personal loans
  Each option has different rates and terms—your Riverstone Builders consultant can help you choose the best fit for your renovation.

Look for a licensed general contractor with solid reviews across Woodbury, Cottage Grove, Lake Elmo, Dellwood, and Mahtomedi. Ask neighbors for referrals, check portfolios online, and schedule in-person consultations to compare estimates and communication style before making your choice.

1. Structural & mechanical work (framing, HVAC, plumbing, electrical)
2. Insulation & drywall
3. Painting & trim
4. Cabinets, countertops & flooring
5. Fixtures & finishes
   Following this sequence keeps projects on track whether you’re in Woodbury, Cottage Grove, Lake Elmo, Dellwood, or Mahtomedi.