Renovating a home in Singapore is an exciting yet monumental task. Between finding the right contractor and choosing the perfect tiles for your bathroom, one of the biggest factors homeowners must consider is the cost. With the complexity of Singapore’s housing landscape and rising material costs, planning your renovation budget is more essential than ever.

This guide breaks down the key renovation costs in Singapore and offers practical tips on budgeting, helping you turn your dream home into reality without unpleasant financial surprises.
Understanding the Basics of Renovation Costs
Before we dig into specifics, it's crucial to understand that renovation costs in Singapore vary widely depending on factors such as the type of property, design preferences, and materials. Whether it's a resale HDB flat, a new BTO flat with fewer built-in amenities, or private property, each comes with its own renovation challenges and price tags.
On average, here's what you can expect to spend based on property type (approximate figures):
BTO Flats: $10,000 - $50,000
Resale HDB Flats: $30,000 - $90,000
Condominiums: $30,000 - $100,000+
Landed Property: $100,000 - $300,000+
But what factors influence these figures?
Key Factors Affecting Renovation Costs
1. Property Size
The bigger the space, the higher the cost. A 5-room HDB flat, for instance, will require more labor and materials compared to a smaller 3-room flat. Keep in mind that larger spaces also require more intricate work, particularly if open-concept layouts are desired.
2. Type of Work Needed
Renovation work generally falls into two categories:
Aesthetic Changes (e.g., painting, lighting installations): These are relatively affordable and straightforward.
Structural Modifications (e.g., hacking walls, retiling floors): These require specialized expertise and are more costly.
For example, hacking down a wall may cost about $1,000 to $2,500, while replacing flooring can range between $5 and $30 per square foot, depending on the material chosen.
3. Material Selection
Your choice of materials significantly impacts the budget. Opting for premium tiles, countertops, or fixtures can quickly inflate costs. For example:
Vinyl flooring may cost around $5 per square foot, while marble could go up to $30 per square foot.
Quartz kitchen countertops could set you back $90 to $135 per square foot, compared to $50 to $70 for solid surface materials.
4. Interior Design Services
Hiring an interior designer for professional expertise typically starts from $1,500 for basic consultation. A full interior design package can cost upwards of $20,000, depending on the scope of work.
5. Furnishings & Appliances
New furnishings and appliances significantly add to renovation bills. Sofas, dining tables, and smart home technology packages for a smart home setup could cost several thousand dollars. Budgeting for these items is essential to avoid post-renovation sticker shock.
How Much Should You Spend on Each Area of Your Home?
Allocating your budget wisely is key to staying on track. Here's a breakdown of estimated costs for different parts of the house in a typical renovation project.
1. Living Room
Painting and lighting installations can start from $1,500.
Feature wall designs for entertainment areas range between $2,000 and $6,000.
2. Kitchen
Installing cabinetry costs between $100 and $300 per foot run.
Retiling the floor or backsplash can range from $3,000 to $6,000.
3. Bedrooms
Built-in wardrobes cost about $200 to $500 per foot run.
Flooring replacements start from $2,000 for 120 square feet.
4. Bathrooms
Replacing vanity counters and fixtures usually costs $3,500 to $5,000 per bathroom.
Budget an additional $1,000 to $2,000 for waterproofing and anti-slip tiles.
5. Miscellaneous Works
Window grilles and blinds can start from $1,500.
Air conditioning installation ranges from $3,000 to $5,000, depending on units installed.
Tips for Keeping Renovation Costs Reasonable
1. Set a Realistic Budget
Start with a clear budget that aligns with your financial capacity. Factor in a buffer of at least 10% to 15% for unexpected costs.
2. Prioritize Essentials
Focus on renovations that improve functionality or add value. Luxuries like premium materials can wait if you’re tight on budget.
3. Plan for Long-Term Savings
Opt for energy-efficient fixtures, appliances, and smart home technology to save costs on utility bills in the long run.
Financing Your Home Renovation
Recognizing that home renovations can be costly, many homeowners opt to secure financing through personal loans, credit lines, or licensed moneylenders. With proper planning, these options can help ease your financial burden while bringing your dream home to life.
Why Consider Alles Autos Credit Pte Ltd?
Alles Autos Credit Pte Ltd is one of the largest licensed moneylenders in Singapore, offering quick, easy, and hassle-free personal loans tailored to suit your financial needs. Whether you need funds for adding finishing touches to your kitchen or investing in new furnishings, Alles Autos Credit ensures a seamless loan application process and competitive interest rates. Reach out today to learn how we can help you manage your renovation finances with ease.
Renovating your home in Singapore is a rewarding but financially demanding process. By understanding the variables and planning carefully, you can achieve a beautiful, functional space without breaking the bank. Be mindful of costs, explore financing options, and always work with reliable partners.
With the right preparation, your dream home is within reach!
Comments