What this measures
A real rehab number comes from a walkthrough and a scope: roof, mechanicals, kitchen, baths, and what is hidden in the walls. This page has none of that.
RE Underwrite Lab does not bid your house. The result here moves only when you change the square feet or the dollars per square foot.
Formula
Rough rehab cost = square feet × your cost per square foot.
The default cost per square foot is an example assumption so the multiplication is visible. Replace it. The page will not add contingency, permits, or a dumpster unless those dollars are already inside the rate you typed.
Example
Example
The sample size and cost per square foot below are a check of the multiplication. Rough rehab cost is $60,000. Square feet is 1,500 sq ft. Cost per sq ft is $40.
Example. These inputs are numbers you can replace. They are not a property RE Underwrite Lab bought, sold, listed, or inspected.
Questions
Is this a contractor bid?
No. A bid names the work. This page only multiplies two numbers you type.
Does it use a cost book or RSMeans?
No. There is no cost database behind the field.
Why is it labeled rough?
Because square feet times a rate ignores the condition of the house. Use it to see the scale of a guess, then replace the guess with a scope.
Where should the better number go?
Type a lump-sum rehab budget on the fix and flip calculator when you have a bid or a contingency you are willing to use.
Will RE Underwrite Lab price my project here?
No. Nothing on this page is a proposal, and this form does not send a scope to anyone.