Do you offer financing for basement projects?

Yes. We offer 0% interest financing for up to 18 months on qualifying basement projects. During your consultation, we’ll review available terms and help you choose the plan that fits your budget and timeline.

Basement Finishing in Des Moines, IA - Lil' Brother Construction

Q: What affects the cost of finishing a basement?

Pricing depends on several factors, including square footage and ceiling height, chosen finishes such as flooring, lighting, and cabinetry, additions like a bathroom, egress window, or wet bar, and any moisture-related or structural improvements. After your in-home consultation, you’ll receive a transparent written quote with no hidden fees or unclear ranges.

Q: How do you handle unexpected issues during the build?

If anything unexpected comes up, such as moisture concerns, structural findings, or material delays, we communicate with you immediately. No changes are made without your approval, and every solution is explained clearly. Our goal is to keep your project aligned with your approved scope and expectations.

Completed basement finishing project in Des Moines, IA by Lil' Brother Construction

Transform Your Basement Into a Space Your Family Will Actually Use

Does your basement feel cold, outdated, or like wasted square footage?

Instead of letting it sit unused, you could turn it into a comfortable family room, guest suite, home office, gym, or entertainment space built specifically for your home.

At Lil’ Brother Construction, we finish basements for homeowners throughout the Des Moines area.

We handle the entire project from design and permits to materials and final build-out so you do not have to juggle multiple contractors.

If your basement currently has:

Cold, dark, or unfinished space
Moisture concerns or awkward layouts
Not enough room for family, guests, or hobbies

We help you turn it into functional living space that feels like a natural extension of your home.

Every basement finishing project includes:

A free 5-hour design consultation
Clear, itemized pricing with no hidden fees
Full permit handling and code-compliant construction
A 100% satisfaction guarantee

Ready to upgrade your basement into something your family will actually use?

Schedule your free consultation today.

Get Your Free Basement Finishing Estimate Today!

Our Basement Finishing and Remodeling Services

Every basement is different. Some are wide open and unfinished. Others have old framing, outdated finishes, or awkward layouts. We help you turn that space into something comfortable and usable.

Here’s what we can include in your basement project:

Layout Planning With a Free 5-Hour Design Consultation:

We start with a free estimate and up to five hours of design consultation. During that time, we’ll sit down with you, walk through ideas, review layout options, talk materials, and help you figure out what makes the most sense for your space and your budget.
Bedrooms, Bathrooms & Real Living Space:

Need another bedroom? A guest suite? A bathroom downstairs? We build fully finished rooms that meet code requirements, including egress-compliant bedrooms. We also handle Des Moines and Polk County permits so everything is done correctly.
Custom Cabinets & Built-In Storage:

Basements work best when they’re organized. We install Amish-built cabinets, built-ins, and storage solutions that fit your space. Great for rec rooms, offices, hobby areas, or anything that needs extra storage.
Flooring, Lighting & Finishes That Make Sense for Basements:

Basements need materials that can handle Iowa conditions. We help you choose moisture-resistant flooring, good lighting, and finishes that look great but also hold up over time.
Built Around How Your Family Will Use It:

Whether you’re picturing a family room, home gym, entertainment area, office, or a little bit of everything, we design the space around how you actually plan to use it — not just what looks good on paper.

Why Homeowners in Des Moines Choose Us for Basement Finishing

Finishing a basement is a bigger investment than a small remodel. It affects your home’s value, comfort, and daily life. That’s why homeowners want a contractor who treats it like a major project — not just another job.

We Respect Your Time and Your Home

Basement projects can feel disruptive. We keep the work organized, stick to realistic timelines, and work in a way that limits unnecessary mess and stress so you can continue living comfortably upstairs.

We Design the Space to Fit Your Home

A finished basement should not feel disconnected from the rest of your house. We pay attention to layout, ceiling height, lighting, and flow so the new space feels like it has always been part of your home.

We Build It to Last

Basements in Iowa require the right materials and proper installation. We focus on durable finishes, correct insulation, and solid construction so your new space holds up year after year.

We Keep Communication Clear

Large remodels require decisions. We explain options clearly, answer questions directly, and keep you informed so you feel confident throughout the project.

Our Basement Finishing Process

Finishing a basement is a big project. We keep it organized and straightforward so you always know what’s happening and what comes next.

Here’s what working with us looks like:

Consultation & Planning

We start by talking through how you want to use the space. You’ll receive up to five hours of complimentary design time to explore layout options, materials, lighting, and overall direction before anything is finalized.
Detailed, Itemized Estimate

Once the design takes shape, we provide a fully itemized estimate. You’ll see the breakdown of labor, materials, and layout choices clearly — no hidden fees and no pressure.
Approved Changes Only

If you decide to make adjustments during the project, we document everything and review it with you before moving forward. No surprise additions and no unexpected costs.
Built by Our In-House Team

All construction is completed by our dedicated in-house crew. We don’t hand your project off to outside subcontractors, which helps maintain consistency from start to finish.
Transparent Invoicing

You receive detailed invoices, including material receipts. We don’t add markups, so you can clearly see where your investment is going.
Final Walkthrough & Guarantee

Before we consider the project complete, we review everything with you. If something needs attention, we address it. Our work is backed by a comprehensive guarantee.

Want a closer look at how we manage projects from start to finish?

Learn more about our Full Process here →

Basement Finishing FAQs

Find quick answers to common questions about basement finishing in Des Moines — including timelines, living arrangements, pricing, materials, and options.

How long does it take to finish a basement in Des Moines?

Most basement finishing projects take 4 to 8 weeks, depending on:

• your basement’s size
• design complexity
• whether you’re adding a bathroom, bedroom, wet bar, or other features

During your free 5-hour design consultation, we review the layout, materials, and project scope to give you a clear idea of how long your specific project will take.
You’ll know the expected timeline before work begins — no vague deadlines or surprises.

Can I live in my home while the basement is being finished?

Yes. Most homeowners stay comfortably in their homes during construction.

Our crew maintains:

• clean, defined work zones
• dust control
• daily cleanup
• respectful noise and workspace management

You can continue your normal routine upstairs while we finish your basement efficiently and safely.

What’s included in the free basement estimate and design consultation?

Every project starts with a free estimate and up to five hours of design consultation.

This includes:

• reviewing your space
• discussing layout ideas
• exploring materials and finishes
• identifying features that match your goals and budget

You’ll receive an itemized project quote and a clear plan before any work begins.

What affects the cost of finishing a basement?

Pricing depends on several factors, including:

• square footage & ceiling height
• chosen finishes (flooring, lighting, cabinetry, etc.)
• additions like a bathroom, egress window, or wet bar
• moisture-related or structural improvements

After your in-home consultation, you’ll receive a transparent written quote with no hidden fees or unclear ranges.

Do I need a basement design before we start?

No. Many homeowners begin with only a few ideas.

During the design consultation, we help shape your vision into a detailed, practical plan — recommending smart layouts, materials, and features to make the most of your space.

Will I have a dedicated project manager?

Yes. Every basement finishing project is assigned a dedicated project manager who oversees scheduling, materials, communication, and daily coordination.

You’ll always know who to contact and what stage your project is in.

How do you handle unexpected issues during the build?

If anything unexpected comes up — such as moisture concerns, structural findings, or material delays — we communicate with you immediately.

No changes are made without your approval, and every solution is explained clearly.

Our goal is to keep your project aligned with your approved scope and expectations.

What materials do you use for basement remodeling?

We use high-quality, moisture-resistant materials designed for long-term performance in Iowa basements, including:

• custom cabinetry
• basement-appropriate insulation
• durable flooring (LVP, carpet, or tile)
• energy-efficient lighting

Every material is selected for durability, comfort, and visual appeal.

How do you ensure quality and satisfaction?

All work is completed by our in-house team to maintain consistent craftsmanship.

Once your basement is complete, we walk through the space with you to confirm that every detail aligns with your expectations.

If anything was missed, our satisfaction guarantee ensures it’s corrected.

Ready to upgrade your basement in Des Moines? Reach out today to schedule your free quote and design consultation.

Get Your Free Basement Finishing Estimate Today!

Led by Jean M. Jones

Jean M. Jones is the founder of Lil’ Brother Construction, a woman-owned remodeling firm known for custom basement transformations across Des Moines. Since 2008, Jean has taken a hands-on role in each project, ensuring every finished basement is functional, comfortable, and built to last.

With over 15 years of experience in structural remodeling and interior renovations, Jean brings deep knowledge of local building codes, moisture control, and space planning. Lil’ Brother Construction is a proud member of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI), the Better Business Bureau, and the Iowa chapter of NAWBO.

If you’re seeking a trusted basement finishing expert in Des Moines, Jean and her team bring technical precision and a warm, collaborative approach to every lower-level remodel they complete.

Ready To Get Started On Your Project?

Kickstart your project with a quote from Lil Brother Construction. Give us a call or fill out the simple online form to get in touch.

Get A Quote

Very good to work with. all the workers were nice and polite. Pleased with the end results. very transparent and show all receipts. went the extra mile.

Barbara Welch , (Des Moines)

I had Lil Brother Const do a porcelain tile floor for me a little more than one week ago. Shawn and Jeremy did the work and it was wonderful!!!! They were on time, very professional and they KNEW what they were doing answered all my questions I had about the project …… I would recommend Lil’ Brother Const to all my friends and family I do trust them. Next year I will have another project for them as well!!! Thank you Lil Brother Const. for being such a friendly and honest business !!!!

Darlene Hyslope , (Des Moines)

Steve and Jean at little Brothers Construction are great to work with. I have been working with them and sending people to them for many years now and everyone who has them out to get some work done is happy with the result. They are an honest company who legitimately cares about the people they’re working for. If you’re looking for an ethical company that will get the job done and not disappear halfway through then Lil’ Brother Construction is who you’re looking for.

Chris Morrill , (Des Moines)

Lil Brother Construction has the best Tech’s in Des Moines!! I really like Shawn! Highly recommend this company for ANY of your home improvements!

Jaime Crawley , (Anita, Iowa)

Great people! They’ll make ya happy with whatever they do for ya!

Kelcey Krings , (Polk City, Iowa)

Second time using Lil’ Brother Construction. I was satisfied with their work and will use again.

Kimberly Carter , (Des Moines)

Jean and Steve truly live and work by their motto. The integrity of their people and the quality of their service is beyond compare. They are exactly the kind of people you want working in your home.

Kristen Boldt , (Des Moines)

We love Lil Brother Construction. They have worked on several projects for us we couldn’t be more pleased. Very prompt and always clean up after themselves. We’ve recommended them several times to friends and neighbors.

David Nagel , (Waukee, Iowa)

Toby, Jaime, Jeremy, Melvin and Steve did an amazing job turning our empty space of a basement into a wonderful asset for our house! The addition of a conforming bedroom and full bath will make the house so much more liveable! The team was courteous, professional and super friendly, not to mention talented. So happy we chose Li’l Brother for our construction needs!!

Amy Groh Kuhlers , (Des Moines)

Lil’ Brother arrived on time, were polite and clean, and came in under their bid. We had them look at 2 different possible projects for us, one which they tackled, and one which they were honest and advised us they couldn’t do. I appreciate it when a person/company knows their expertise and limits and doesn’t tackle a project just to make money. I was very pleased all the way around. Great job guys, we will definitely use you again!

Rebecca Smith (Rebecca Sweeney), (Des Moines)

Common Services Homeowners Combine With Basement Finishing

Finishing a basement often involves updates to plumbing, electrical systems, insulation, and layout transitions.

Because these upgrades tie into other parts of the home, many Des Moines homeowners choose to combine their basement project with related improvements to save on labor, streamline planning, and create a more cohesive overall design.

These are the most commonly paired services.

Basement Finishing in Des Moines, IA