COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about finishing your basement? You’re not alone! Our FAQ section is designed to provide clear answers about costs, timelines, design options, and the Millgate Homes process, helping you feel confident and informed every step of the way.
Pricing basement finishing by the square foot is misleading at best and dishonest at worst. There are simply too many factors involved to give an accurate “one‐size‐fits‐all” number.
For example, most bathrooms average around 45 square feet, yet the cost must cover framing, plumbing, electrical, drywall, painting, cabinetry, countertops, fixtures, tile, ventilation, and accessories. Taken together, that can equal roughly $175 per square foot.
On the other hand, a standard bedroom (without plumbing, cabinetry, or tile work) typically costs less than a quarter of that amount. This shows why square‐foot pricing is unreliable: the real cost depends on the number, type, and size of rooms in your design, as well as the finishes you select.
The best way to get an accurate price is to share your basement floor plan with us. We’ll provide a detailed, transparent estimate that reflects your specific layout and needs.
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An estimate is an early pricing tool that helps you understand whether your expectations are in line with the typical costs of basement finishing.
Since most homeowners aren’t sure if their project might be closer to $30,000 or $90,000, an estimate helps narrow that gap and set realistic expectations.
By reviewing your description and floor plan, we can provide a ballpark figure so you know what to anticipate before moving forward.
For example, if your estimate comes in around $40,000, the final bid will typically refine that number within a reasonable range (say $35,000–$45,000).
It won’t suddenly drop to half the price, nor will it unexpectedly double; that’s the value of getting a professional estimate. If the estimate feels comfortable with your budget, the next step is a detailed bid.
At that stage, we’ll visit your home, take precise measurements, and prepare a complete, to‐the‐dollar bid for your basement based on your exact design and needs.
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Yes. We understand that some homeowners want to take on certain tasks themselves, and we do allow limited “sweat equity” opportunities.
Common examples include completing the painting or installing certain flooring. In some rare cases, we may also permit homeowners to use an immediate family member who is a licensed and insured subcontractor for a specific phase of the work.
These situations are assessed on a case‐by‐case basis to ensure the overall quality, safety, and warranty of your basement are preserved.
Every project timeline depends on the size, design, and complexity of the basement, but thanks to our detailed pre‐planned schedules and efficient project management, most basements are completed in just 10 to 12 weeks.
We prioritize clear communication and careful coordination with our crews to keep your project on track, ensuring your basement is finished on time without compromising on quality.
Yes, the basement should be cleared of personal belongings to allow our crews full access to walls, floors, and ceilings.
This ensures the work can be completed efficiently and safely, while protecting your possessions from dust or accidental damage. We recommend moving items to an upstairs area, garage, or temporary storage space.
Our team can advise on the best way to prepare your basement for construction.
No, our goal is to minimize disruption to your daily life while the basement is being finished.
Over 90% of our workers and materials will go through a basement window greatly decreasing upstairs traffic / interferences and our crews are trained to work efficiently and respect your home, containing dust and keeping construction areas organized.
Many homeowners continue their normal routines upstairs while we complete the basement project.
No, we require only a $1,000 deposit at the time of contract signing to secure your project. From there, we follow a structured payment plan that aligns with the progress of the basement construction.
This approach ensures transparency and allows you to pay as work is completed, giving you confidence that funds correspond to actual progress.
(Be weary of companies that require large deposits and/or don’t have a fair and structured payment plan).
Our bids are structured to be clear, consistent, and comprehensive.
We include all standard items upfront such as: quality cabinetry, durable flooring options, and list allowances for things like lighting and plumbing fixtures.
Optional features such as fireplaces, full kitchens, custom showers, or finishing storage areas are listed transparently in their own section, so you can choose exactly what fits your vision and budget.
This way, you’ll know from the beginning what your project will cost and what’s included.
Yes, that is always our goal! We carefully match door styles, baseboards, and casings to your upstairs finishes and can also replicate your existing paint colors.
This ensures that the basement feels like a natural extension of your home.
Our design team also considers lighting, trim details, and overall aesthetics so your new basement is cohesive and harmonious with your existing spaces.
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With over 25 years of experience specializing exclusively in basements, Millgate Homes has mastered the unique challenges that basements present.
From customized designs and premium materials to code compliance and energy‐efficient solutions, we go above and beyond industry standards.
Our bids are transparent and consistent; what other builders call “upgrades,” we often include as standard.
Our motto, “Your Basement, Your Way,” reflects our commitment to delivering personalized spaces that match your vision and lifestyle.
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Absolutely. Navigating building codes is one of our specialties.
Every project we complete is permitted and fully compliant with city and state regulations, ensuring your finished basement isn’t just beautiful, it’s also safe and structurally sound.
From proper egress windows in bedrooms to ventilation in bathrooms, we take every step necessary to create a functional, code‐compliant living space you can enjoy with peace of mind.
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You don’t need an outside architect.
Our in‐house design team has you covered. We’ll help you maximize your space with creative layouts, minimize wasted areas like unnecessary hallways, and incorporate storage solutions where others might overlook them.
Whether you want a family‐friendly retreat, a rental apartment, or an entertainment hub, our design expertise ensures your basement is tailored to your lifestyle and ready for construction.
No, our process is designed to minimize disruption.
Temporary interruptions to plumbing or electrical services may occur only once or twice during major alterations, and these are typically brief.
Our crews plan carefully to coordinate these tasks efficiently so that your household activities are impacted as little as possible.
Yes, Millgate Homes provides a 2‐year warranty on all work and materials for quality and craftsmanship.
This covers construction and installation defects, but does not cover normal wear‐and‐tear, accidental damage, or misuse.
We stand by our work and are committed to promptly addressing any issues within the warranty period.
Absolutely! We provide more style options and choices than any other builder in Utah.
Our products are sourced from the best local showrooms, so you can be confident in both quality and aesthetics.
From flooring to cabinetry, lighting, paint, and plumbing fixtures, our Selection Guide helps you customize your basement exactly as you envision it.
Yes, if you have additional projects upstairs that fall within our expertise, we can coordinate those with the basement work.
Our crews efficiently schedule tasks to complete both areas without unnecessary delays or return trips, ensuring cost‐effective and seamless progress across your entire home.
This approach maximizes your time and minimizes inconvenience.
Free Estimates
How much will it cost to finish my basement in Utah?
Fill out the form below or call us today to get your free basement finishing estimate! 801.915.4466
Free Estimates
Posted on Kim WyffelsTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had a wonderful experience working with Millgate Homes. Eric is professional yet personable. Great communication, timely and competitive pricing.Posted on Christine TannerTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a great experience with Eric of Millgate homes. I love my basement. His whole team was professional, kind and did great work. Eric pays attention to the details which is rare in the world of contracting these days. You won't be disappointed.Posted on Kathryn SeamonsTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had Millgate finish our basement and we love it! They were amazing!!!!! Always punctual, kind & great at communicating. We wanted some custom items and Eric was so great to listen, create and execute our vision PERFECTLY. I would 100% recommend them.Posted on Rosemary FlahertyTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Working with Millgate Homes has been a pleasure! The communication was ongoing and I always knew where we were in the process. The expectations and contract was clear and the subcontractors were very professional. Prices were reasonable and I received much help in making decisions and selections. And I love the final result! Very happy with our new basement and highly recommend Millgate homes for your basement finishing project.Posted on Loren WhitneyTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I rarely write reviews but I think I need to in this case. This company was excellent to work with. Initially I didn't know exactly what I wanted to do with the basement, but I had ideas. When Eric came over I discussed it with him and he clarified a few things for me and I felt we ended up with a really nice design. He put me in the queue and once I was in, it was like clockwork. Everything was on time, professional, and high quality. I had plenty of help picking out colors and making decisions. After a couple of years and after working with a different contractor for a different project, I look back on the experience with a lot of appreciation. I highly recommend this companyPosted on Steven HinckleyTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Millgate Homes finished our basement and it was a great experience! They helped us work out a floor plan to maximize the use of space, everyone was friendly, did a great job, and they finished on time.Posted on Karthik KasiviswanathanTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. When we decided to finish our basement, we received many bids from various contractors. Eric from Millgate Homes stood out because he was very professional and he gave us a very competitive and detailed bid. Eric is very knowledgeable and he guided us on different options through out the project. Eric has a wonderful team of subcontractors who are very professional and did a great job. Eric and Mitch were very responsive to all the questions we had. Also, Mitch gave us periodic updates on the cost and kept us informed. Towards the end some the subcontractors fell sick, but Eric made sure the work got completed on time. We are glad we chose to work with Millgate Homes and would highly recommend them!!Posted on Lana SchultzTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We have been delighted with our remodel and have told everyone about it.Posted on Katie SorensenTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We received bids from a number of different contractors and not only did Millgate provide the most comprehensive, but it was also very competitive. Our neighbors chose another contractor and started a month before us on their basement finish and Millgate finished a month before them! We would definitely recommend them.Posted on Kathy WrightTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Eric has been amazing. He's replied to emails, given me estimates that were very reasonable. Some had ranges and he explained what the range included. I've been very impressed with his professional service.
Service Areas
Proudly serving customers in south Salt Lake County and Utah County areas.