NEW YORK – November 04, 2026 -- A lower contractor quote can end up costing a homeowner more if the renovation takes months longer to finish, according to Chapter Renovation, a design-build firm that says its completed full-scope luxury renovations average 38 weeks.
Chapter's 38-week average is set against a 77-week industry figure
The company compares its 38-week average with an approximate 77-week industry average. It says it identified that figure through its analysis of publicly available research and market data. Chapter adds that results may vary, and that timelines depend on scope, approvals, material selections, and client changes.
A calculator turns months of delay into dollars
Chapter's Cost of Delay Calculator lets homeowners adjust their monthly carrying costs and the number of extra months beyond a 38-week plan. The tool then shows how delays could cancel out an initially lower price.
In a Manhattan scenario with estimated monthly costs of $47,000, the calculator puts a five-month delay at $235,000. Chapter says those costs can include temporary accommodations, storage, and overlapping financing. Owners planning to rent out a renovated property can also start collecting rental income sooner if work finishes earlier.
Executives say idle gaps between phases are where homeowners pay
Chapter CEO and Founder Eran Polack said the cheapest quote "can often become the most expensive choice" if a job runs months longer than anticipated.
Eli Moyal, Founder and COO, said homeowners should ask contractors what will keep the next phase ready to start. If materials are ordered only after approvals arrive, or trades are scheduled only after the previous crew leaves, the homeowner can end up paying for those gaps.
Parallel workstreams and a client portal aim to shorten the schedule
Chapter's design-build model assigns specialized teams to coordinate design, permitting, procurement, project management, and construction. Where feasible, those activities advance in parallel.
Clients use the RenoTech Client Portal for shared schedules, budgets, documentation, and communication. Its AI-assisted tools are designed to identify potential delays and material issues early.