Dallas continues to be one of the most active multifamily renovation markets in the country. Aging Class B and Class C apartment inventory, rising renter expectations, and competitive submarkets are driving owners to reinvest in their assets.
However, successful multifamily renovations in Dallas require more than a budget and a contractor — they require local knowledge, realistic timelines, and a clear understanding of common risks.
Below, we break down typical renovation costs, realistic timelines, and the most common pitfalls Dallas multifamily owners face, along with how to avoid them.
Typical Costs for Multifamily Renovations in Dallas
Renovation costs in Dallas can vary significantly based on asset class, scope, and whether work is completed in occupied units.
Interior Unit Renovations (Class B / C)
Typical ranges per unit:
- Light refresh (paint, fixtures, minor flooring): $6,000 – $10,000
- Partial upgrade (LVP, cabinets, countertops, lighting): $12,000 – $20,000
- Full interior renovation: $22,000 – $35,000+
Costs are influenced by:
- Unit size and layout
- Material availability
- Unit turnover vs. occupied renovation strategy
Exterior and Common Area Renovations
Common Dallas multifamily exterior projects include:
- Roofing replacement
- Siding and trim repair
- Window and door upgrades
- Parking lot and drainage improvements
- Pool and clubhouse renovations
Typical exterior renovation budgets range from $5,000 to $15,000 per unit when spread across the asset, depending on scope.
MEP and Code-Related Upgrades
Older Dallas properties often require:
- Electrical panel and service upgrades
- Plumbing line repairs or replacements
- HVAC system upgrades
- Fire safety and life-safety compliance work
These items are frequently underestimated and can add 10–25% to total renovation costs if not properly scoped early.
Realistic Timelines for Dallas Multifamily Renovations
One of the biggest mistakes owners make is assuming renovation timelines will be faster than reality — especially in a market like Dallas.
Typical Timeline Ranges
- Unit turns (per unit): 7–21 days depending on scope
- Rolling interior renovation programs: 3–12 months
- Large exterior or full-property renovations: 6–18 months
Key timeline factors include:
- City of Dallas permitting and inspections
- Material lead times
- Weather impacts on exterior work
- Coordination across multiple trades
Working with a contractor experienced in Dallas-specific permitting and inspections can significantly reduce delays.
Common Pitfalls in Dallas Multifamily Renovations
1. Underestimating Permitting and Inspection Requirements
Dallas inspections can slow projects when scopes are unclear or documentation is incomplete. Electrical, plumbing, and fire-related work often triggers additional reviews.
How to avoid it: Involve a contractor who understands Dallas permit workflows and can flag inspection-triggering scopes early.
2. Over-Renovating for the Submarket
Not every Dallas submarket supports luxury finishes. Over-improving units can reduce ROI and extend lease-up timelines.
How to avoid it: Renovate to match renter expectations for the specific neighborhood, not city-wide trends.
3. Poor Planning for Occupied Renovations
Occupied renovations require careful sequencing, communication, and unit access coordination. Poor planning can lead to resident complaints and turnover.
How to avoid it: Use a phased renovation plan and experienced on-site supervision to minimize disruption.
4. Ignoring Infrastructure Until It Fails
Deferring plumbing, electrical, or roofing issues often leads to mid-project change orders and budget overruns.
How to avoid it: Perform early inspections and include contingency allowances in your CapEx plan.
5. Choosing the Wrong Contractor
Multifamily renovations are not the same as single-family or retail construction. Lack of multifamily experience often leads to delays, cost overruns, and poor communication.
How to avoid it: Select a contractor that specializes in multifamily renovations in Dallas and understands asset-level execution.
Why Local Experience Matters in Dallas
Dallas is a fast-moving, competitive market with unique permitting processes, aging infrastructure, and diverse submarkets. Contractors without local multifamily experience often struggle to anticipate issues that seasoned operators plan for.
At Vedomi Construction, we specialize in apartment renovation projects throughout Dallas–Fort Worth, bringing owner-level insight and hands-on execution to every project. We understand the challenges of renovating active multifamily assets — because we own and operate them too.
👉 Learn more about our Dallas multifamily renovation services here
Planning a Multifamily Renovation in Dallas?
If you’re evaluating a renovation or CapEx project in Dallas, early planning and the right partner make all the difference.
Contact Vedomi Construction to discuss your project scope, timeline, and budget — and avoid the costly pitfalls that derail multifamily renovations.