Upgrade Costs in Utah: What to Expect

Why Upgrade Costs Matter

Builder upgrade sheets in Utah can add $30,000 to $80,000+ to the base price of a new home. Understanding what upgrades cost — and which ones are worth doing through the builder versus after closing — is one of the most impactful financial decisions in the new construction process.

Builders typically mark up upgrades significantly compared to what independent contractors charge for the same work. However, some upgrades must be done during construction because they involve structural, plumbing, or electrical changes.

Common Upgrade Categories and Typical Costs

These ranges are typical for the Utah market as of 2025. Actual costs vary by builder, community, and home size.

• Flooring (whole home): $5,000–$20,000 through builder. Hardwood, LVP, and tile upgrades are among the most marked-up items. Post-closing cost is often 40-60% less.
• Kitchen countertops: $3,000–$10,000 through builder. Quartz and granite upgrades are standard. Builder pricing is typically 30-50% above independent quotes.
• Cabinet upgrades: $2,000–$8,000 through builder. Soft-close, extended uppers, and custom finishes. These are best done during construction.
• Appliance packages: $2,000–$6,000 through builder. Compare builder pricing against retail — sometimes the builder deal is competitive, sometimes not.
• Lighting and electrical: $1,000–$5,000 through builder. Additional outlets, can lights, and fixture upgrades. Electrical rough-in must be done during construction.
• Landscaping: $3,000–$15,000 through builder. Front yard landscaping is often required by HOA. Almost always cheaper done independently after closing.
• Basement finish: $15,000–$40,000+ through builder. One of the biggest potential savings areas — independent contractors typically charge 30-50% less.
• Smart home/security: $500–$3,000 through builder. Pre-wiring should be done during construction. Devices and systems can be added after.

Upgrades to Do During Construction

These upgrades involve structural, plumbing, or electrical work that is difficult or impossible to do after the home is built:

• Electrical rough-in (extra outlets, lighting locations, EV charger prep)
• Plumbing rough-in (extra hose bibs, gas lines, water softener loop)
• Structural changes (framing for larger windows, reinforced walls for TV mounts)
• Cabinet layout and configuration
• Window and door upgrades
• Insulation upgrades
• Garage door opener pre-wire

Upgrades to Consider Doing After Closing

These upgrades are typically much cheaper when done through independent contractors after you have the keys:

• Flooring (hardwood, LVP, tile)
• Countertops (quartz, granite)
• Lighting fixtures (not locations — those need rough-in)
• Landscaping (backyard especially)
• Basement finishing
• Window treatments (blinds, shutters)
• Paint upgrades (accent walls, custom colors)
• Garage epoxy or storage systems

Most buyers who plan their upgrades strategically save between $10,000 and $20,000. Our maximize incentives service helps you capture every available dollar of savings before you sign.