Full Gut Remodel & Complete Home Renovation Experts in Central Texas: Transforming Homes Strip to Studs
Sometimes the best home for your family is the one you're already in—just completely reimagined. As full gut remodel specialists serving Bastrop County, Williamson County, Hays County, and throughout Central Texas, Niesen Construction transforms existing homes through comprehensive strip-to-studs renovations that address every system, every surface, and every detail. Whether you're a homeowner staying in a beloved neighborhood, a real estate investor maximizing property value, or a realtor seeking reliable renovation contractors, we bring 33 years of expertise to complete home renovations that turn outdated houses into modern dream homes.
33
Years Renovation Experience
100%
Complete Transformations
Preferred
Contractor for Realtors
Understanding Full Gut Remodels:
What Strip-to-Studs Renovation Really Means

Definition
A full gut remodel—also called a gut renovation or strip-to-studs renovation—means exactly what it sounds like: taking a home down to its bare bones and rebuilding it completely from the inside. We remove everything: all interior finishes, all fixtures, all cabinets and flooring, all existing electrical wiring and plumbing, often the HVAC system, sometimes even drywall and insulation. What remains is the home's structural frame (the 'studs'), foundation, and exterior shell. Then we rebuild everything with modern systems, updated layouts, and contemporary finishes. The result looks and functions like a brand new home while staying within your existing home's footprint and location.
Scope Explanation
Full gut remodels represent the most comprehensive residential renovation possible short of complete demolition and new construction. This approach makes sense when a home has good bones—solid foundation, sound structure, desirable location—but outdated or failing systems, inefficient layouts, or finishes that need complete replacement. Rather than trying to work around existing conditions or making compromises, we address everything at once: upgrading electrical to modern capacity and code, replacing aging plumbing that's prone to leaks, installing energy-efficient HVAC systems, reconfiguring layouts for contemporary living, and finishing with materials and fixtures you select. It's transformative renovation requiring expertise across every construction discipline.


Differentiation
Many contractors use 'remodel' and 'renovation' interchangeably, creating confusion about what you're actually getting. A kitchen remodel might mean new cabinets and countertops while keeping existing layout and appliances. A full gut remodel means removing everything in that kitchen—and the rest of the house—down to studs, replacing all wiring and plumbing, possibly reconfiguring the space entirely, then finishing with all new materials. The scope, complexity, investment, and results differ dramatically. As specialists in complete home renovations throughout Central Texas, we help homeowners understand exactly what full gut remodels entail before starting projects, preventing misunderstandings about timeline, investment, or disruption level.
Full Gut Remodel

Cosmetic updates (paint, flooring, fixtures)

Some systems upgraded as needed

Existing layout mostly preserved

Work around existing conditions

Faster timeline, lower investment
Standard Remodel

Strip to studs (or further if needed)

ALL systems completely replaced

Layout can be reconfigured entirely

Address all hidden issues

Essentially new home inside existing walls
What a Full Gut Remodel Includes

Complete Demolition
Strip interior to studs, remove all finishes, fixtures, systems

All New Systems
Complete HVAC, electrical, plumbing replacement

New Drywall
Fresh drywall throughout, professionally finished

Kitchen & Baths
Complete kitchen and bathroom renovations

Structural Work
Structural Repairs & Reinforcements

Modern Insulation
Energy-efficient insulation throughout

All Finishes
Flooring, tile, paint, trim, doors—everything new

Exterior Updates
Often includes windows, doors, sometimes siding
Why Full Gut Remodel Makes Sense:
The Case for Complete Transformation
Homeowners considering major changes face difficult decisions: renovate, relocate, or buy new construction? Full gut remodels offer compelling advantages over alternatives—but only when done comprehensively by contractors with expertise handling the complexity. Here's why Central Texas homeowners and real estate investors choose complete home renovations through Niesen Construction.
Stay in Your Beloved Location
Better Economics Than Buying New
Complete
Customization
Superior to Piecemeal Renovations
Maximum Property Value Increase
Address All Hidden Issues
Sometimes the best home for your family is the one you're already in, just reimagined. Whether you've outgrown your layout, inherited a fixer-upper, or found a property with great bones but outdated everything, a full gut renovation can transform an existing house into your dream home while keeping you in the neighborhood and school district you love.
- Charles Niessen, Founder & Owner
Why Full Gut Remodels Require Exceptional Expertise

Working Within Existing Constraints
Challenge:
Unlike new construction where you start with level ground and precise measurements, renovations work within existing structures that may be out-of-square, out-of-level, or built to standards no longer acceptable. Walls aren’t perfectly straight. Floors sag. Ceilings vary in height. These realities affect how new systems install, how finishes apply, and what’s possible with layouts.Solution:
Our Approach: We perform thorough pre-renovation assessments documenting existing conditions, plan work accounting for imperfections, and use techniques developed over decades to make new construction fit properly within imperfect existing structures. We know when to work with existing conditions and when structural corrections are necessary.Discovering Hidden Problems
Challenge:
Opening walls inevitably reveals surprises: water damage from old leaks, outdated wiring not meeting code, plumbing in wrong locations, structural modifications done improperly by previous owners, insulation missing or deteriorated, or termite damage hidden behind finishes. These discoveries require solutions not budgeted in original estimates.Solution:
Our Approach: We include contingency budgets specifically for unforeseen issues common in older homes. When discoveries occur, we document them thoroughly, explain implications clearly, present solution options with transparent pricing, and get approval before proceeding. No surprises—just honest communication about what we find and what it requires.Foundation & Structural Issues
Challenge:
Central Texas soils—particularly expansive clay common in areas like Round Rock and Cedar Park—cause foundation movement over time. Many older homes have foundation cracks, settling, or structural problems requiring attention before complete renovations proceed. Ignoring these issues wastes investment in new finishes that will crack again.Solution:
Our Approach: We assess foundations and structures before renovation begins, recommend necessary repairs, and address structural issues first. Our team includes specialists in foundation work who understand local soil conditions and proper repair techniques. We ensure stable foundations before investing in complete interior renovations.Coordinating All Trades
Challenge:
“Full gut remodels require coordinating multiple trades: demolition, foundation specialists, framers, electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians, insulators, drywall crews, flooring installers, tile setters, painters, trim carpenters, cabinet installers, and more. Poor coordination causes delays when trades wait on each other or have to redo work because sequencing was wrong.”Solution:
Our Approach: With 22 skilled specialists on our team covering every construction trade, we control scheduling and sequencing rather than waiting for subcontractors. Our systematic approach—honed over decades—ensures each trade knows exactly when they work, what comes before them, and what follows. This coordination allows us to complete full gut remodels efficiently without delays from scheduling conflicts.Budget Uncertainties
Challenge:
The reality of renovation projects: you can’t know everything until you open walls. Responsible contractors acknowledge this uncertainty upfront rather than providing unrealistically low estimates that inflate through constant change orders. But uncertainty makes budgeting difficult for homeowners and investors needing accurate project costs.
Solution:
Our Approach: We base estimates on thorough pre-renovation assessments and decades of experience knowing what older homes typically hide. We include realistic contingency budgets rather than optimistic estimates that always exceed. When unforeseen work becomes necessary, we present options at different price points and let clients decide how to proceed. Our goal is transparency, not the lowest initial bid that explodes through change orders.Occupied vs. Vacant Renovations
Challenge:
Full gut remodels typically require homes to be vacant—you can’t live in a house stripped to studs without utilities or finishes. This creates challenges: where does the family live during renovation? How do we secure vacant properties? What about homeowner access to check progress? Each situation requires different approaches.
Solution:
Our Approach: We help clients plan for renovation logistics before starting. For occupied renovations, we discuss phasing possibilities if only portions can be completed at once. For vacant properties, we maintain security and welcome scheduled client visits to check progress. We’re flexible about logistics because every situation differs, and we want clients comfortable throughout the process.33 Years Solving Renovation Challenges
Founder Charles Niessen’s 33 years in construction includes extensive experience with full gut remodels throughout Central Texas. From historic homes in Bastrop to investor properties in Kyle to established homes in Round Rock, we’ve renovated homes across every service area, handled every challenge older homes present, and developed expertise that only comes from decades of actually doing this work. We’re preferred contractors for multiple realtors precisely because they trust our ability to handle renovation complexity, stay within budgets, complete projects reliably, and deliver results that maximize property values. This isn’t theoretical knowledge—it’s practical expertise earned through hundreds of complete home renovations.
Full Gut Remodel Transformations
Throughout Central Texas

1970s Ranch Complete Transformation - Kyle, TX

Bastrop, TX

2,800 sq ft | 4 bed, 3 bath | Modern Farmhouse

Saturday by appointment
This 1970s ranch in Kyle required complete systems replacement, layout reconfiguration, and updated finishes throughout. We removed walls creating open-concept living, replaced all MEP systems, installed modern insulation and energy-efficient windows, and finished with a re Read More materials. The transformation turned an outdated, compartmentalized home into a bright, open, modern space perfect for contemporary family living. Completed in 9 weeks.

1970s Ranch Complete Transformation - Kyle, TX

Bastrop, TX

2,800 sq ft | 4 bed, 3 bath | Modern Farmhouse

Saturday by appointment
This 1970s ranch in Kyle required complete systems replacement, layout reconfiguration, and updated finishes throughout. We removed walls creating open-concept living, replaced all MEP systems, installed modern insulation and energy-efficient windows, and finished with a re Read More materials. The transformation turned an outdated, compartmentalized home into a bright, open, modern space perfect for contemporary family living. Completed in 9 weeks.

1970s Ranch Complete Transformation - Kyle, TX

Bastrop, TX

2,800 sq ft | 4 bed, 3 bath | Modern Farmhouse

Saturday by appointment
This 1970s ranch in Kyle required complete systems replacement, layout reconfiguration, and updated finishes throughout. We removed walls creating open-concept living, replaced all MEP systems, installed modern insulation and energy-efficient windows, and finished with a re Read More materials. The transformation turned an outdated, compartmentalized home into a bright, open, modern space perfect for contemporary family living. Completed in 9 weeks.

1970s Ranch Complete Transformation - Kyle, TX

Bastrop, TX

2,800 sq ft | 4 bed, 3 bath | Modern Farmhouse

Saturday by appointment
This 1970s ranch in Kyle required complete systems replacement, layout reconfiguration, and updated finishes throughout. We removed walls creating open-concept living, replaced all MEP systems, installed modern insulation and energy-efficient windows, and finished with a re Read More materials. The transformation turned an outdated, compartmentalized home into a bright, open, modern space perfect for contemporary family living. Completed in 9 weeks.
Serving Homeowners & Real Estate
Professionals Throughout Central Texas
Full gut remodels serve two distinct audiences with different motivations and priorities. Homeowners transform homes they plan to live in for years, focusing on personal vision and long-term satisfaction. Real estate professionals—realtors, investors, flippers—renovate properties for resale, prioritizing budgets, timelines, and maximizing property values. We serve both audiences excellently because we understand their different needs and adapt our approach accordingly.

For Homeowners
Homeowners choosing full gut remodels are typically staying in homes and neighborhoods they love, inherited properties with good bones but dated everything, or found perfect locations in homes needing complete transformation. Your investment is personal—you'll live with results for years or decades. You prioritize quality, communication, and creating spaces perfectly suited to how your family lives. We work with homeowners who want partners in transformation, not just contractors executing plans.
Why Homeowners Choose Full Gut Remodels:
- Stay in beloved neighborhoods and school districts
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Transform inherited homes or fixer-uppers
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Create exactly the layout and finishes they want
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Address all deferred maintenance at once
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Gain peace of mind with all-new systems
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Achieve better economics than buying new
We inherited my parents’ 1960s home in Bastrop and wanted to stay in the neighborhood where I grew up, but everything needed updating. Niessen Construction completely transformed the interior—new everything—while keeping the exterior character. It’s our dream home now, in the exact location we wanted. The communication was excellent and the quality exceeded expectations.
Jennifer Martinez,

For Real Estate Professionals
Real estate investors, realtors managing client properties, and home flippers need contractors who understand that renovations are business investments requiring reliable timelines, strict budget adherence, and quality work that maximizes resale values. You're evaluating projects based on return on investment, not personal preferences. We're preferred contractors for multiple realtors precisely because we deliver predictable results: we stay within budgets through accurate estimates and careful cost management, complete projects on promised timelines, and deliver quality that commands premium sale prices.
Why Realtors Trust Us for Investment Properties:
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Reliable timelines critical for investor budgets
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Budget adherence preventing profit erosion
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Quality work maximizing resale values
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Comprehensive renovations minimizing surprises
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Preferred contractor status with multiple realtors
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Experience with occupied and vacant properties
I’ve worked with Niesen Construction on multiple investment property renovations and they’re my go-to contractor. They provide accurate estimates upfront, manage budgets carefully, complete projects on schedule, and deliver quality that helps my clients maximize profits. Reliable contractors make all the difference in real estate investing—Niesen Construction is reliable.
Michael Thompson
Understanding Full Gut Remodel Investment & Timeline
Full gut remodels represent significant investments—both financial and time. Homeowners and investors deserve transparent information about what projects cost, what influences those costs, and how long transformations take. Here's honest guidance based on decades of complete home renovations throughout Central Texas.

Investment Considerations
Full gut remodel costs vary dramatically—from $75,000 for smaller homes with straightforward renovations to $200,000+ for larger homes with extensive structural work, high-end finishes, and complex system installations. Rather than providing misleading 'starting at' prices, we discuss your specific situation: home size, condition, what you want changed, finish preferences, and budget parameters. Then we develop accurate proposals based on actual scope, not optimistic estimates that explode through change orders.
What Influences Renovation Costs:
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Home size (square footage)
- Structural issues requiring attention
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Systems complexity and upgrades
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Finish selections and materials
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Layout changes and reconfigurations
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Unforeseen conditions discovered
While full gut remodels require substantial investment, they typically cost 30-50% less than purchasing equivalent new construction in the same neighborhoods—particularly in established areas where location premium is significant. You’re not just renovating a house; you’re creating substantial equity in property you own, in location you’ve chosen, with results perfectly tailored to your needs.

Timeline Expectations
Most full gut remodels complete in 8-12 weeks from demolition to certificate of occupancy, with planning and permitting adding 2-4 weeks upfront. This timeline assumes straightforward projects without extensive structural complications. Our systematic approach and 22-person team covering all construction trades allows faster completion than contractors dependent on subcontractor availability.
Typical Full Gut Remodel Timeline:
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Planning & Permitting: 2-4 weeks
- Demolition: 1-2 weeks
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Structural/Foundation: 1-2 weeks
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New Systems: 2-3 weeks
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Drywall & Insulation: 1-2 weeks
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Finishes: 3-4 weeks
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Total: 8-12 weeks typical
We complete full gut remodels faster than many contractors by controlling all trades rather than waiting for subcontractors to schedule your project between their other jobs. Our experienced team works systematically: as soon as one phase completes and passes inspection, the next phase begins immediately. This coordination minimizes delays and delivers completed renovations in reasonable timeframes.
Full Gut Remodel FAQ
Full gut remodels raise many questions—especially for homeowners and investors considering this comprehensive approach for the first time. Here are answers to the questions we hear most often about complete home renovations.
Can I live in my home during a full gut remodel?
Generally no. Full gut remodels strip homes to studs, remove all utilities temporarily, create substantial dust and debris, and make spaces uninhabitable. Most clients stay with family, rent temporary housing, or renovate investment properties while vacant. In rare cases, we can phase renovations to keep portions habitable, but this extends timeline and increases costs through setup/cleanup between phases. We discuss logistics during planning to help you arrange appropriate accommodations.
How do full gut remodels compare cost-wise to buying new homes?
In most Central Texas markets, full gut remodels cost 30-50% less than purchasing equivalent new construction in the same neighborhoods. You avoid real estate commissions (typically 6% if selling), moving costs, higher property taxes on new purchases, and price premiums new homes command. The economics favor renovation especially in established areas where location value exceeds newer construction in less desirable locations.
What's the biggest risk with full gut remodels?
The biggest risk is discovering significant hidden problems—major foundation issues, extensive termite damage, structural modifications done improperly—that require substantial unbudgeted work. We mitigate this through thorough pre-renovation assessments, realistic contingency budgets for typical older-home issues, and immediate communication when discoveries occur. Experienced contractors anticipate common problems and budget accordingly rather than providing optimistic estimates that explode when reality appears.
Should I hire an architect for full gut remodels?
For complex layout changes or significant structural modifications, architectural involvement helps ensure designs work structurally and aesthetically. For renovations keeping existing layouts with updated finishes and systems, architecture may be unnecessary. We work with architectural partners when needed and include those services in comprehensive pricing. We advise whether your specific project benefits from architectural involvement.
How do I choose finishes and materials?
We guide finish selection throughout design phase, presenting options at different price points for flooring, countertops, cabinets, fixtures, and all finish materials. Some clients know exactly what they want; others need education about options and tradeoffs. We help you understand where investments matter most and where value-oriented choices make sense, keeping your budget and priorities central to all decisions.
What happens if you find major problems during demolition?
When demolition reveals problems requiring attention—structural issues, hidden water damage, code violations from previous work—we document thoroughly with photos, explain implications clearly, present solution options with transparent pricing, and get your approval before proceeding. No surprise bills: we communicate immediately about significant discoveries and let you decide how to address them within your budget.
Can you match the existing exterior on additions during renovation?
Yes. Full gut remodels sometimes include additions or exterior modifications. We match existing materials and architectural style so additions integrate seamlessly. This requires attention to detail: matching brick, siding profiles, roof pitches, and trim details. After decades performing renovations, we know how to make new construction blend with existing so results look cohesive, not obviously added later.
Do I need to be involved during construction?
We encourage involvement level that feels comfortable for you. Some clients visit daily and love watching progress; others prefer updates via photos and messages. We schedule regular update meetings, send progress photos, and welcome site visits with advance notice. Major decisions require your input, but day-to-day construction proceeds without constant client involvement. We adapt to your preferred communication style.
Do you remodel homes in [specific city]?
We remodel homes throughout Central Texas within approximately 75 miles of our Red Rock base. This includes Bastrop County, Williamson County, Hays County, Travis County, and portions of surrounding counties. Our primary service areas include Bastrop, Buda, Kyle, Austin, Cedar Park, Round Rock, Leander, Manor, Smithville, Elgin, and Dripping Springs. If your location isn’t listed, contact us—we regularly serve additional areas based on project specifics.
How do permitting requirements differ from new construction?
Renovation permits address alterations to existing structures: demolition permits, renovation/remodeling permits, and separate permits for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. Requirements vary by jurisdiction (Bastrop County, Williamson County, cities, etc.). We handle all permitting, understanding local requirements and maintaining relationships with building officials that facilitate smooth approvals.
Can full gut remodels include exterior changes?
Yes. While ‘full gut remodel’ technically refers to interior work, many clients combine interior renovation with exterior updates: new windows and doors, siding replacement, roofing, covered patios or decks. Addressing everything simultaneously makes sense—you’re already disrupting the property, contractors are already mobilized, and comprehensive renovation creates cohesive results inside and out.
What about HOA approvals for renovations?
If your property has HOA, we help navigate approval processes for exterior changes visible from streets or common areas. Interior renovations typically don’t require HOA approval, but exterior modifications often do. We provide documentation HOAs need, attend meetings if helpful, and ensure compliance with architectural guidelines. Our experience with various HOAs throughout Central Texas helps this process go smoothly.
Ready to Transform Your Home?
Whether you're a homeowner staying in a neighborhood you love, a real estate investor maximizing property value, or a realtor seeking reliable renovation contractors—full gut remodels transform dated houses into desirable homes. As complete home renovation specialists serving Central Texas for over three decades, we bring the expertise, quality craftsmanship, and transparent communication your transformation deserves. Let's discuss how we can transform your property.
Schedule Free Consultation
Talk directly with Charles about your full gut remodel vision and property. We'll discuss your goals, assess your home's condition, and provide honest guidance about what's possible, what it requires, and what it costs. Free consultation, no obligation.
Call (XXX) XXX-XXXXRequest Project Assessment
Prefer to start online? Complete our contact form with details about your property and renovation goals. We'll respond within 24 hours to schedule an in-person assessment and discuss your complete home renovation possibilities.
Contact Us Online- Niesen Construction
- Based in Red Rock, Texas
- Serving 75-Mile Radius Across Central Texas
Licensed • Insured • 33 Years Experience
Preferred Contractor for Multiple Realtors
