How Much Does a Complete House Renovation Cost?

At Cameron Construction, we understand that a complete house renovation cost can be a significant investment.

Homeowners often wonder about the expenses involved in transforming their living spaces.

In this post, we’ll break down the factors affecting renovation costs, provide a room-by-room cost analysis, and share valuable tips to help you stay within budget.

What Drives House Renovation Costs?

Property Characteristics

The size and age of your property significantly impact renovation costs. Larger homes require more materials and labour, increasing expenses. Renovating a 200 square metre house typically costs more than twice as much as renovating a 100 square metre property. Older homes often present hidden challenges (like outdated wiring or plumbing), which can add unexpected costs to your renovation budget.

Renovation Scope

The extent of your renovation work directly affects the overall cost. A simple refresh with new paint and fixtures costs far less than a complete structural overhaul. Recent data from the Housing Industry Association shows that a basic renovation in Australia costs around $20,000-$40,000, while a high-end renovation can exceed $200,000.

Material Quality

Your choice of materials and finishes can dramatically swing your renovation budget. Opting for premium hardwood flooring instead of laminate can increase flooring costs by 200-300%. Selecting custom-made cabinetry over off-the-shelf options can double or triple your kitchen renovation expenses.

Location Matters

Local market conditions and your property’s location significantly influence renovation costs. Urban areas like Melbourne typically have higher construction costs due to expensive labour and stricter building regulations compared to rural regions. Additionally, local council regulations and permit requirements vary by location, potentially adding to your project timeline and budget.

Expert Guidance

Navigating these variables requires expert knowledge. Professional renovation companies (like Cameron Construction) can provide detailed, personalised quotes to accurately budget for your specific renovation needs. Their team of experts can help you create a renovation plan that aligns with your vision and budget.

As we move forward, let’s break down the costs associated with renovating specific areas of your home. Understanding these details will help you prioritise your renovation efforts and allocate your budget effectively.

Room-by-Room Renovation Costs

Kitchen Renovation: The Heart of Your Home

Kitchen renovation costs in Australia vary widely, ranging from $10,000 for a basic upgrade to $75,000 and up for a high-end remodel. The cost varies based on factors such as cabinetry quality, appliance upgrades, and benchtop materials. Custom cabinetry instead of pre-fabricated units can increase costs by 30-50%. Premium stone benchtops over laminate can add $3,000-$5,000 to your budget.

Bathroom Makeovers: Small Space, Big Impact

Bathroom renovation costs vary widely from budget renovations starting at $5,000 to luxurious makeovers that can reach $40,000+. Plumbing relocations significantly increase costs (sometimes adding $5,000 or more to the total). High-end fixtures and fittings, such as freestanding baths or smart toilets, can quickly escalate expenses. A basic shower installation might cost $1,000, while a luxury rainfall shower system could set you back $3,000 or more.

Living Areas and Bedrooms: Comfort Meets Style

Renovating living rooms and bedrooms generally costs less than kitchens or bathrooms, ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 per room. The bulk of these costs often go towards flooring, painting, and lighting upgrades. Hardwood flooring installation in a 20 square metre living room can cost between $2,000 and $4,000, while carpet might range from $1,000 to $2,500. Built-in wardrobes in bedrooms can add $2,000 to $5,000 to your renovation budget.

Outdoor Area Improvements: Extending Your Living Space

Outdoor renovations can vary widely, from simple landscaping to elaborate outdoor kitchens. A basic deck installation might cost $5,000 to $10,000, while a comprehensive backyard makeover with landscaping, paving, and a pergola could range from $20,000 to $50,000. Adding an outdoor kitchen typically starts at $5,000 but can easily exceed $20,000 for high-end setups with built-in BBQs and refrigeration.

These figures provide a general idea of renovation costs, but actual expenses can vary based on specific needs and local market conditions. To get an accurate budget for your renovation project, it’s best to consult with experienced professionals who can provide detailed, personalised quotes. They can help you balance your desires with your budget, ensuring you get the most value from your renovation investment. As we move forward, let’s explore some cost-saving tips to help you maximise your renovation budget without compromising on quality.

Smart Savings for Your Renovation

Prioritise Your Renovation Goals

List your renovation goals in order of importance. Focus on changes that will have the biggest impact on your daily life and property value. Updating an outdated kitchen or bathroom often yields a higher return on investment compared to cosmetic changes in less-used spaces. Recent data shows that Australians spent more than $3 billion on alterations and additions to their homes in the September quarter of 2023, a 4.2% increase from the previous quarter.

DIY-Friendly Tasks

Major structural work should be left to professionals, but you can handle many smaller tasks yourself to save on labour costs. Painting interior walls can save you $2,000 to $3,000 for an average-sized home. Simple landscaping or installing new light fixtures are other projects that can reduce your overall renovation expenses.

Shop Smart

Don’t settle for the first quote you receive. Get at least three quotes for major works and compare them carefully. Look beyond just the bottom line – consider the contractor’s reputation, timeline, and the specifics of what’s included in the quote. For materials, watch for sales and clearance items. Many retailers offer significant discounts during certain times of the year (such as end-of-financial-year sales).

Budget for Unexpected Costs

Set aside a contingency fund for unforeseen expenses. Experts recommend allocating 5%-10% of your total budget for unexpected costs. This could cover anything from discovering asbestos during demolition (which can add $2,000-$5,000 to removal costs) to realising you need to upgrade your electrical system to meet current standards.

Seek Expert Advice

Proper planning and smart choices can lead to significant savings without compromising on quality. Professional renovation companies can provide expert advice on where to splurge and where to save, ensuring you get the most value out of your renovation budget. A well-planned renovation not only enhances your living space but can also be a sound financial investment in your property’s future.

Final Thoughts

A complete house renovation cost depends on various factors such as property size, renovation scope, material quality, and location. We recommend thorough planning and budgeting to create realistic expectations for your project. Setting aside a contingency fund (typically 5-10% of your total budget) will help you manage unexpected expenses effectively.

Professional assistance proves invaluable for larger renovation projects. Cameron Construction offers expertise that can streamline your renovation process and potentially save you money in the long run. Our team of designers, engineers, and interior advisers can help you navigate complex decisions and ensure compliance with local regulations.

A well-executed renovation enhances your living space and can increase your property’s value. You can transform your house into the home of your dreams while managing costs effectively through careful consideration of your options and meticulous planning. A successful renovation reflects your lifestyle and needs, creating a space that truly feels like home.