“How much will my renovation actually cost?” This question often arises when standing in an empty living room, imagining whether that feature wall will cost $3,000 or $8,000. Understanding renovation costs and estimating them accurately can feel overwhelming, especially with many factors involved: your property type, the scope of your plans, and the materials you choose. A renovation calculator acts as your guide, helping translate your vision into realistic numbers and assisting you in planning a home makeover.
Thoughtful budgeting prevents your renovation dreams from becoming financial stress. Gathering multiple itemized quotes reveals true costs and helps you spot inflated pricing. Exploring affordable material alternatives, budget-friendly countertops or warm flooring options; helps keep your renovation budget manageable.
Introduction to Renovation and Understanding Renovation Costs
Starting a home or restaurant renovation is an opportunity to reshape your space to reflect your style and increase property value. However, understanding renovation costs is essential. In Singapore, costs vary depending on your property type, renovation scope, and materials.
Creating a realistic renovation budget is crucial to avoid costly missteps. A renovation calculator helps convert your needs and style preferences into numbers, enabling informed decisions and smoother renovation experiences; whether for a small or larger, commercial restaurant space. A well-planned budget shields you from unexpected expenses and delays.
Factors Affecting Renovation Costs
Several key factors influence renovation costs in Singapore, including property type, renovation scope, materials, and labor.
Property Type and Its Influence
Whether you live in a new BTO flat, a lived-in resale property, a condo unit, or even a restaurant space, each has a unique cost profile. Older resale units often require extensive hacking and rewiring, increasing costs, while BTO renovations focus more on aesthetics since the structure is new. BTO flats provide a clean slate, offering flexibility and generally lower costs than resale flats, which may hide surprises.
Typical renovation cost ranges include:
- 3-room BTO: $32,800 to $51,500
- 4-room BTO: $40,300 to $62,300
- 5-room BTO: $44,700 to $69,800
- 3-room resale: $42,900 to $66,600
- 4-room resale: $55,700 to $80,400
- 5-room resale: $64,300 to $92,600
These figures illustrate how renovation costs in Singapore vary with property type, condition, and regulations.
Scope of Renovation
The extent of renovation work, from light cosmetic updates to major structural changes; is a primary cost driver. Simple painting or fixture replacements are affordable, but demolition, custom carpentry, and plumbing reconfiguration escalate costs quickly. Carpentry and masonry often consume the largest budget shares. Even moving a few electrical points can add hundreds to your bill.
Material Selection
Material choices impact both cost and experience. For example, quartz countertops offer durability and beauty but can be pricier than other options. Choosing vinyl or laminate flooring over hardwood or marble can significantly reduce costs while maintaining style. High-end materials increase renovation expenses but may add long-term value.
Choosing Your Renovation Partner
Hiring an interior designer adds 20-30% to costs but helps avoid mistakes and coordinate the project. Contractors charge less but require you to manage the process closely. Early understanding of this trade-off helps prevent stress and unexpected expenses.
Understanding Average Renovation Costs in Singapore
Renovation costs in Singapore vary across HDB flats, resale properties, and condo renovations, influenced by flat size and renovation scope. Full renovation costs include materials, labor, professional fees, and compliance expenses.
Typical renovation budget breakdown:
- Materials (40-50%): From kitchen cabinets to light fixtures, these elements shape daily living.
- Labour Costs (35-45%): Skilled workers bring your vision to life.
- Professional Fees (10-15%): For designers or architects managing the project.
- Permits and Compliance (5-10%): Approvals, debris removal, and cleaning.
Estimating Renovation Costs Using the Square Foot Method
The square foot method offers a simple way to estimate renovation costs:
Total Renovation Cost = Floor Area (sq ft) × Cost per sq ft
Typical renovation costs per square foot in Singapore (2026):
- Basic Renovation: SGD 60 – SGD 90
- Mid-Range Renovation: SGD 100 – SGD 150
- Premium Renovation: SGD 160 – SGD 250+
For example, renovating a 900 sq ft resale flat with mid-range finishes might cost approximately SGD 108,000. Resale renovations often cost more than BTO renovations due to additional work like rewiring and replacing existing tiles.
Bathroom Renovations and Room-by-Room Cost Breakdown
Bathrooms usually have the highest cost per square foot due to waterproofing, durable tiling, reliable plumbing, and ventilation.
Typical room cost estimates:
| Room | Area (sq ft) | Rate (/sq ft) | Estimated Cost |
| Kitchen | 65 | SGD 200 | SGD 13,000 |
| Bathroom | 43 | SGD 240 | SGD 10,320 |
| Living/Dining | 270 | SGD 100 | SGD 27,000 |
| Master Bedroom | 130 | SGD 90 | SGD 11,700 |
| Bedroom 2 | 110 | SGD 90 | SGD 9,900 |
| Bedroom 3 | 110 | SGD 90 | SGD 9,900 |
| Common Areas | 272 | SGD 90 | SGD 13,600 |
Light Hacking and Renovation Costs
Light hacking involves removing outdated tiles, built-in fixtures, or partial walls to update layouts without major demolition. Costs range from $1,000 to $3,000 depending on complexity and area. Combined with other works, total renovation costs can range from $10,000 to $50,000.
Consider both labor and materials, and be prepared for potential hidden issues behind walls that may require attention.
Major Works and Masonry Costs
Major structural changes like extensive hacking, building partial partition walls, or installing false ceilings significantly increase costs. Skilled masonry and wet works; including flooring, tiling, and constructing bases for kitchen cabinets and built-in fixtures, are labor-intensive and costly.
Request detailed quotations to understand where your money goes. Kitchen renovations may also require appliance upgrades like replacing the cooker hob, which adds to expenses.
Hidden Costs and Avoiding Costly Mistakes
Hidden costs can surprise homeowners, including permit fees, debris removal, unplanned electrical works, and temporary accommodation if living conditions are disrupted.
A common mistake is underestimating labor complexity or skipping a contingency buffer. A 10-15% contingency fund is recommended, especially for older resale flats where rewiring or structural issues are common.
Request itemized quotes early, including professional fees and permits, to avoid surprises and maintain control over your renovation journey.
Planning Your Renovation: Budget and Timeline
Successful renovations start with a clear vision and realistic budget. Define your renovation scope, identify areas for transformation, and decide on materials and structural changes. Create a detailed cost breakdown, including labor and material costs, and factor in contingency for hidden issues.
Use a renovation calculator to estimate costs and set achievable budgets and timelines. Schedule thoughtfully to allow time for material selection and decision-making.
Financing Options: Renovation Loans and Personal Loans
Most homeowners lack enough cash to cover full renovations upfront. A renovation loan offers lower interest rates and structured payments directly to contractors, based on verified quotes. Borrow up to $30,000 or 6 times your monthly income. It covers renovation costs only, excluding furniture or other expenses.
Alternatively, personal loans offer more flexibility, covering any expenses but usually come with higher interest rates.
Choose financing based on your needs to avoid financial strain and enjoy your renovation journey.
Using a Renovation Calculator Effectively
For accurate estimates, your renovation calculator needs:
- Detailed floor plans with precise area size
- Clear renovation plans, including any major works or light hacking
- Material selections reflecting your desired quality
- A comprehensive list of tasks, from kitchen cabinets to electrical works
Renovation Project Management Tips
Managing a renovation is like orchestrating a complex dance. Hire reputable contractors or designers who understand your vision. Develop a detailed plan and timeline, and maintain clear communication to address issues early.
Monitor progress and costs regularly. Plan for contingencies and choose materials considering resale value and sustainability. Staying organized minimizes costly mistakes and ensures a rewarding renovation.
Plan and Renovate with Confidence
By understanding renovation costs and Singapore’s unique renovation landscape, using tools like renovation calculators, and accounting for hidden expenses and financing options, you can approach your renovation with clarity and confidence.
Renovating in phases helps manage costs by focusing on essentials first. In 2026, renovation costs may rise due to inflation and material price increases. Older properties may require more care and incur higher costs than newer homes.
Gather multiple quotes, include contingency buffers, and consult professionals to avoid surprises and create a home that truly reflects you. For expert guidance and reliable services, visit Restaurant Renovations to start your renovation journey with confidence.