How Much Does a Full House Renovation Cost?
Renovating an entire house is a significant undertaking that can transform your living space. At Cameron Construction, we often get asked about the cost for full house renovation projects.
The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Numerous factors influence the final price tag, from the size of your property to the quality of materials you choose.
What Drives Full House Renovation Costs?
House Size and Layout
The size of your home significantly impacts renovation costs. Larger homes require more materials and labour, which increases overall expenses. A 200 square metre house will cost substantially more to renovate than a 100 square metre property. Complex layouts with multiple levels or unusual architectural features can also add to the price tag.
Property Age and Condition
Older homes often hide surprises behind their walls. These can include outdated wiring, structural issues, or other hidden problems that quickly inflate your budget. For instance, rewiring an entire house can cost anywhere from $8,000 to $15,000 (depending on the size and complexity of the job).
Scope of Work
The extent of your renovation plans plays a crucial role in determining costs. A full gut renovation, where the house is stripped down to its bones, will naturally cost more than selective updates. For example, a kitchen remodel alone can range from $15,000 to $50,000, while a whole-house renovation might start at $150,000 and increase from there.
Material Quality and Finishes
Your choice of materials and finishes can dramatically affect the bottom line. High-end materials like marble benchtops or custom cabinetry will increase costs significantly. On average, budget-friendly materials might cost $50-$100 per square foot, while luxury options can range between $1,800 to $4,000 per square metre.
Labour Costs and Location
Labour costs vary widely depending on your location and the expertise required. In Melbourne, skilled tradespeople can charge anywhere from $50 to $150 per hour. Urban areas generally have higher labour rates than rural regions. Additionally, specialised work (like electrical or plumbing upgrades) will typically cost more than general construction tasks.
Understanding these factors is essential for setting realistic expectations and budgeting effectively for your full house renovation. While it’s tempting to focus solely on the aesthetic aspects, considering these underlying cost drivers will help you make informed decisions throughout your renovation journey. Now, let’s explore how these factors translate into specific costs for different rooms in your home.
Room-by-Room Renovation Costs: A Detailed Breakdown
Kitchen: The Heart of Your Home
Kitchens often consume the largest portion of a renovation budget. A kitchen remodel in Melbourne can range from $22,000 to $55,000, according to the Housing Industry Association’s (HIA) annual Kitchens and Bathrooms Report. High-end renovations with luxury appliances and custom cabinetry can exceed $80,000. Key cost factors include:
- Cabinetry: $5,000 – $20,000
- Appliances: $5,000 – $25,000
- Benchtops: $3,000 – $10,000
- Flooring: $2,000 – $8,000
These figures can vary based on the size of your kitchen and the quality of materials chosen.
Bathroom: A Sanctuary of Comfort
Bathroom renovations are the second most expensive room to update. A standard bathroom renovation in Melbourne typically costs between $15,000 and $30,000. Luxury bathrooms with high-end fixtures and finishes can reach $50,000 or more. Key expenses include:
- Tiling: $3,000 – $10,000
- Fixtures (toilet, sink, shower): $2,000 – $8,000
- Vanity: $1,000 – $5,000
- Plumbing: $2,000 – $6,000
Living Spaces: Creating Comfort and Style
Living rooms and bedrooms require less intensive work compared to kitchens and bathrooms. However, costs can still add up. For a living room or bedroom renovation, expect to spend between $10,000 and $30,000. This typically covers:
- Flooring: $3,000 – $8,000
- Painting: $1,000 – $3,000
- Lighting: $500 – $2,000
- Built-in storage: $2,000 – $10,000
Exterior and Landscaping: First Impressions Matter
Don’t overlook your home’s exterior. A full exterior renovation, including new siding, roofing, and windows, can cost anywhere from $30,000 to $100,000. Landscaping costs vary widely but typically range from $5,000 to $20,000 for a medium-sized yard.
These figures provide a general guideline, but every project is unique. Factors like the age of your home, existing conditions, and your specific design choices will influence the final cost. Professional renovation companies (like Cameron Construction) provide detailed, personalised quotes to ensure you have a clear understanding of your renovation costs before work begins.
Now that we’ve explored the costs associated with different areas of your home, let’s look at some effective strategies to save money on your full house renovation project.
Smart Savings for Full House Renovations
Create a Detailed Budget
Before you start your renovation, create a comprehensive budget. List every anticipated expense, from materials to labour costs. Include a buffer of 10-20% for unexpected issues. This detailed approach prevents overspending and keeps your project on track financially.
A well-planned budget allows for informed decisions throughout the renovation process. Some homeowners save up to 15% on their total renovation costs simply by having a clear financial plan from the start.
DIY Where Possible
While complex jobs require professionals, you can handle many tasks yourself. Painting, simple demolition work, or installing fixtures are excellent DIY options. Home renovations can generally be estimated to cost between $1,600 and $3,700 per square metre. While DIY projects can help cut costs, it’s important to consider your skills and the complexity of the task.
However, be realistic about your skills. Attempting complex electrical or plumbing work without proper knowledge can lead to costly mistakes (and potential safety hazards).
Source Materials Wisely
Shop around for materials and compare prices from different suppliers. Look for end-of-line sales, clearance items, or slightly imperfect stock that’s still functional. Many homeowners save up to 30% on material costs by being savvy shoppers.
Consider alternative materials that offer similar aesthetics at lower prices. For example, laminate Flooring can mimic the look of hardwood at a fraction of the cost (potentially saving you $10 to $20 per square metre).
Reuse and Repurpose
Before you discard existing elements, consider if you can refresh or repurpose them. Floor sanding and polishing costs $1,000 – $8,000, depending on the size of your home. The cost for a 3-bedroom home is around $3,000 – $4,000. Painting dated kitchen cabinets rather than installing new ones can also help reduce costs.
One homeowner saved $8,000 by deciding to keep and paint their structurally sound kitchen cabinets instead of replacing them entirely. This approach not only saved money but also reduced waste.
Consult with Professionals
A full house renovation is a significant investment. While these strategies can help reduce costs, it’s important to balance savings with quality. Cutting corners on essential elements like structural work or electrical systems can lead to expensive problems down the line.
Always consult with experienced professionals to ensure your renovation is both cost-effective and high-quality. Companies like Cameron Construction offer expert advice and can help you make informed decisions about where to save and where to invest in your renovation project.
Final Thoughts
A full house renovation requires careful consideration of property size, age, scope of work, materials, and labour costs. These factors significantly impact the cost for full house renovation and set realistic expectations. Thorough planning and budgeting help control expenses and ensure your vision becomes reality.
Professional assistance proves invaluable for large-scale projects. Experienced renovation companies bring expertise, industry connections, and project management skills that can save money in the long run. They help navigate complex decisions and ensure compliance with local regulations.
Cameron Construction offers over 40 years of experience in delivering high-quality home improvements in Melbourne. Their team of experts can guide you through every step of the renovation process (from initial design to final execution). With their commitment to transparent communication, you can approach your renovation with confidence.
