What Drives Up (Or Down) Your Renovation Costs?

When the excitement of the prospect of getting your keys wears off, you start to realise that now is the time to start planning and budgeting for your home renovation. There are a number of factors that influence how much your home renovation will cost, our guide will help you to set out your budget and look at ways that you can cut down on costs. 

Size.

The scope of the renovation in terms of size is going to play a big role in determining how much your renovation will cost. If you are updating the entire interior or exterior of your home, the cost of the renovation is going to be much higher than that of a renovation that only involves a single room. If budget is the only thing that is holding you back from pursuing a larger renovation, you can try re-purposing items or skipping minor points of the renovation in order to reduce the costs.

Type.

The type of home you have whether it’s an HDB flat, condo, or landed house will impact your costs. The renovation work for an old resale flat varies greatly compared to a brand new HDB BTO apartment, due to the costs of demolishing, repairing and refurbishing the old items the previous owner has left behind.

New condominium units will generally cost less to renovate than HDB flats because they already come with kitchen and bathroom fittings. On the other hand, a newly built HDB flat will need things like new floorings, walls, and built-in cupboards, in addition to kitchen and bathroom fittings. 

However, a new BTO flat is less expensive to renovate than a resale flat. Due to outdated design features and fittings, older houses might not match your aesthetic. In the event that it has not been renovated in the past 20 years, you may want to do a major renovation. The plumbing and wiring might also need to be redone, as they might have worn out over the years.

Contractor Versus Interior Designer. 

It may seem obvious but different companies charge different prices. Each also offers different services that will mean you need to choose between investing more of your time or more of your budget.  Need help deciding between them? Check out our handy guide on how to choose between a Contractor or Interior Designer.

How Much Work You Want To Do.

Are you more or less satisfied with the way things are going? What if you wanted to knock down walls and build your dream house (almost) from scratch, with custom carpentry? 

The amount of work you want to be done forms the backbone of your costs after the size of your home. You will spend a large portion of your renovation budget on:

Hacking means tearing down walls, rebuilding walls, or touching up walls. The labour costs will depend on the wall size, thickness, and the amount of hacking that needs to be done. 

In masonry, new walls are built or old walls are repaired. The cost of more complex renovations masonry work is determined by the area size and the amount of labour. It also includes flooring, tiling, and wet works.

Carpentry: Do you want built-in wardrobes, kitchen cabinets, or desks? Then you’ll need to set aside a budget for carpentry. The cost for these customised solutions depends on the area size and amount of workmanship you’ll require. 

Confused with renovation jargon? Check out 3 Key Renovation Terms You Need to Know.

Type of Materials You Want To Use. 

What kind of materials would you like to use for your new flooring, cabinets, and countertops? The costs of renovations will be impacted by these options as well. Below we go into some of the cost differences between typical quotes and what you end up choosing. 

Unforeseen Costs. 

Electrical Works.

Once you start to get quotes from Interior Design firms, you may see that electrical works are missing from their quote. The costs of electrical works depend on the size of your home and the scope of work needed. Most electricians won’t be able to give you a quote without a site visit. Factor this in when you are budgeting for your reno. You may need a few electrical quotes to compare so set aside time for this. The cost of electrical works can add up if you add in additional power points, concealed wiring or if you decide to rewire your entire home. 

Plumbing Works.

It is more common for ID firms to include plumbing work in their quotations, but some don't when they don't have contracted plumbers. As with electrical work, you'll need to get a plumber to visit the site before you can get an accurate quote. 

Bathroom Accessories.

For installation of your toilet fixtures and pipes in your bathrooms, you may need to hire a plumber. Having your pipes concealed or moving the location of sinks and showers will also drive up the cost of your renovation. 

Lighting and Fixtures.

You can't guess how much you'll spend on these since prices depend on factors like the size of fixtures you need, brands, functions, and materials. You will need to research and budget for the types of lighting and fixtures you want within your home. These include everything from Pendant Lights to  Bathroom Sinks. 

Materials for flooring and walls.

You're most likely to get a quote tailored to your budget when you request it from an ID or a contractor. If you have a strict budget, you can expect quotes for materials like tiles and vinyl to reflect the lowest possible price. Several options are available for $3/sqft vinyl and tiles, but note that the selection is limited at this price point. It becomes evident when you select your preferred materials - aesthetic and high-quality materials tend to have higher prices. Even after you've signed a payment contract, you'll likely be billed for additional costs incurred if you change your mind and opt for higher-priced materials. 

Hinges and handles for carpentry and doors.

The question you might ask is why a cupboard would not come with hinges? The world operates this way. Some of the reasons for this are designed to reduce your costs, as hinges are more expensive from 3rd party sources. It’s best to clarify at the quote stage whether your carpentry quote includes hinges or not so that you don’t get a surprise later on. 

Ceiling.

Detailed false ceilings tend to cost more when compared to normal ceilings. If you want features like rounded details, L-box or U-box shapes or cove lighting for your ceiling, expect the final price to shoot up. 

Platform Beds.

Platform beds are extremely popular in Singapore, especially for compact bedrooms. This kind of bed does away with the necessity of having a wardrobe in the bedroom. However, the carpentry charges for this type of integrated and multi-functional furniture is higher than usual.

Shelving and Partitions. 

Open shelves and niches (mostly with profile lighting) are an expensive design feature to have in your home. Moreover, installing partitions too tends to raise the final cost of renovations to a large extent. 

Custom Furniture.

Furniture in unusual shapes is more expensive. Rounded furniture or furniture that has oblique/unusual shapes (like hexagonal, abstract etc.) costs more than furniture in common forms. The prior has more novelty and stands out as a statement. If that is your intention, the extra cost is a matter of choice.

Length Of Time To Do Your Renovation. 

The longer your renovation takes to complete, the more it will cost. Renovations that are more complex often require more workers working for longer hours. If you want to save money, scaling back your renovation could help to keep labour costs down and also help you to finish more quickly. It is also a good idea to keep in mind that renovations can not go on for a variable period of time and must have a set start and end date.

Post-renovation cleaning.

Your renovation quote most likely includes protection for floors, general chemical cleaning and the cleaning of debris. This can add an additional $1,00 dollars to your quote. Ve warned though, it can take time for dust and debris to settle. You may need to budget for a professional cleaning firm to do a final clean before you move in. The other cost-saving option is for you (and your family and friends perhaps!) to have the time to clean every nook and cranny in your home yourself. 

Final Advice - Always get an itemised breakdown of your renovation costs.

Obtaining multiple quotes is a good rule of thumb before signing on with a particular company, so you can sort out the details. Compare each quote right down to the unit price so that you can easily identify if you need to top up more cash for items and services that aren't always included, such as fixtures and installation. 

Being a homeowner and renovating your home into your dream home is an exciting and monumental step in life. The hidden costs of renovation can make your plans seem futile, especially if you are not willing to pay for essentials like electrical works and home fixtures. It’s best to always have a budget set aside for unforeseen costs. 

A Guide To Scandinavian Interior Design Style.

Interior design in the Scandinavian style is simple, minimalist, and functional. Scandinavian design isn't a new phenomenon, but it continues to be a popular trend in interior design today, particularly in Singapore. Scandinavian design is a design movement characterized by a focus on functionalism and simplicity. It also includes the use of natural materials, such as leather and wood. Furthermore, Scandinavian interiors are often characterized by a connection to nature, which combines natural shapes, abstracted elements, and natural elements.  

Scandinavian interiors have a certain magic. This chic home has a cosy vibe with a neutral colour palette and minimal adornments. When it comes to creating a Scandinavian interior design for your space, but you aren't sure how to go about it, here are tips and tricks to make it a success.

What is Scandinavian Style? 

Scandinavian decor style captures the balance between comfort and minimalism found in Scandinavian design. It is one of the interior design styles that influenced (and grew with) modern interior design in the 20th century. Clean lines, minimal decoration, and the importance of artwork are a few examples. 

Below are our top tips to bring a Scandinavian theme into your home.

Accessorize With Warm Textiles.

Scandinavian countries are characterized by climates that are extremely cold. Therefore, warm textiles are frequently used in Scandinavian home décor. Whilst Singapore doesn’t have the weather of these Scandanavian countries, we can still bring in the warm textiles to create the Scandanavian styles in BTO’s, HDB’s, Condos or Landed Properties. There are a variety of textiles you can choose from, including throws and rugs made from wool, sheepskins, or mohair. Or choose options that look like they come from these materials. 

Choose Simple Decorative Pieces.

Scandinavian interior design is known for its simplicity. As a result, when it comes to decorating a Scandinavian themed home, always choose those decorative accents that have a simple design. Decorative ceramic vases may be the perfect addition to the living room table. Using throws and pillows that have simple geometric prints will bring texture and colour to your Scandinavian interior.

Combine Both Wood And Metal Finishings.

In a Scandinavian design, wooden elements are used not only in the flooring but also in the furniture and fixtures. Scandinavian houses are usually furnished with wood for their furniture, such as coffee tables and chairs. Recent trends in Scandinavian decorating, however, combine metallic details with wooden elements. Brass pendants and copper sconces are suspended from the ceiling to bring light and shine into the room.

Look At Plants And Fresh Flowers To Decorate.

To add a living element of colour and beauty to your Scandinavian interior design, consider adding natural elements. Plants and fresh flowers can be put to good use when decorating your Scandinavian theme. In order to achieve Scandinavian design, it must include floral elements and fresh flowers.

Neutral Colours.

The Scandinavian style decor includes a particular colour palette of grey, white, brown, and black. When decorating a Scandinavian living room, focus on the use of these neutral colours in order to create a clean and soothing atmosphere. You are not limited to these colours though, you can also add pops of colours, such as fuchsia and sea greens. In typical Scandinavian home decor, walls are often painted in white in order for the furniture and decorative pieces to stand out.

Hygge Colours.

Hygge, however, is what sets Scandinavian home decor apart from other styles. Specifically, to create an environment that fosters feelings of warmth, contentment, and cosiness. The term is derived from Denmark, but many Nordic homes share the same comforting essence without too much ornamentation.

The perfect amount of furniture and decor is used in Scandinavian interiors - neither too much nor too little. Scandi colour schemes are no different. Colours in this style are typically calming and neutral, with white, gray, black, and blue accents. 

White Scandinavian Decor.

The Scandinavian design style emphasizes simplicity and naturalness as much as possible. Scandinavian design is functional but also pleasing to the touch. Fabrics and handmade items are certainly earthy in their textures that give Scandi home decor a Scandinavian feel. A cool colour scheme is complemented by wood, leather, and rugs.

Keep Your Interior Clutter-Free.

The Scandinavian interior design style puts a strong emphasis on keeping the space clutter-free. Organizing storage spaces smartly should therefore be a priority to avoid unnecessary clutter. Scandinavian decor is characterized by the "less is more" philosophy in order to keep the space looking less cluttered and more visually relaxing.

Choose Light-Coloured Flooring.

Scandanavian themes usually use light hardwood flooring either in its natural light colour or painted white. A Scandinavian design is perfect for laminated flooring. Your home will appear brighter and more spacious with the addition of new flooring that oozes an air of warmth and welcome.

Light Window Treatments.

Adding plenty of light to a Scandinavian theme can make the space more inviting. The Scandinavian design maintains a very minimal use of window treatments to allow the light to enter the room. If window coverings are necessary for your Scandinavian decor, choose light fabrics such as sheer curtains. 

Lighting Is Crucial.

Scandinavian interior design emphasizes the importance of lighting. In Scandinavian décor, light is considered a life source, and there should be different types of lighting to ensure adequate illumination. In a Scandinavian home design, lighting also sets the mood. Modern lighting can be incorporated into an industrial design by using wall sconces and pendant lights. 

Form Combined With Function.

In Scandinavian design, furniture should have clean lines. Tables, chairs, and sofas should have rounded and smooth edges to complement the Scandinavian decor. It is also common for Scandinavian design to incorporate a multi-tiered wall shelf in a Scandinavian living room due to its innovative and functional use of space. Innovative and space-efficient storage spaces add visual interest to space.

5 Easy Ways to Get Started WIth This Style

1. Nature-Inspired Artwork

The Scandinavian wall decor is often influenced by nature or human form, whether it is an abstract watercolor or a line drawing. If you like monochrome artwork, you can exhibit it by itself, in series or as a larger grouping. 

2. Fluffy Textiles

In addition to adding warmth, throws and rugs also soften the sometimes-stark look of a Scandinavian interior. As well as adding a stylish element to the design, these fluffy additions provide functionality.

3. Statement Lighting

The decoration is limited, so functional elements also take on an ornamental quality. Lighting is an example of this. Lighting fixtures with lantern-like shapes are popular. Nonetheless, the latest Scandinavian house decor trends also feature whimsical and colourful lighting designs.

4. Simple Patterns

Scandinavian home decor keeps its patterns and motifs simple. Those homes are filled with sweet cross motifs, straight lines, and mini chevrons. Soft furnishings with patterns can add a bit of fun to a Nordic-inspired interior.

5. Natural Materials

The Scandinavian style is characterized by the use of natural materials like wood and leather. It is the combination of rustic elements from the earth with soft and cosy textiles that makes this style so appealing.

Is It True That Resale Properties Always Cost More To Renovate?

Home renovation is not to be undertaken lightly.

When comparing new launches with resales, you've likely heard the saying, "resale properties require more renovation". It is thought that, since you need to hack up the previous work, it adds time and money.. Since the saying is so common, some buyers use it to motivate them to always stick with new launches.

Renovation costs vary from unit to unit, and no study has proven that resale properties will be more expensive to renovate. Moreover, it is impossible to predict the final cost of the renovations. 

Resale properties often have higher renovation quotes since they can end up being more expensive.

Important Cost Factors To Consider Are:

1. The Hacking Of Previous Works

2. Size Of Unit

3. The Current State Of Plumbing And Electrical Work

4. Appliances

1. The Hacking Of Previous Works.

You may find that hacking out the previous bathroom and starting again is the only option.

In many cases, you can mitigate the costs of these renovations by choosing to live with what is already there. It is one of the biggest wastes to hack up rooms that had been renovated just a few years before the unit was purchased. 

Consider resale units with an interior design you like. Adding what's missing in this way ensures the renovation costs are comparable to buying a new unit. You could use an overlay instead of hacking away and replacing an old layer of material.

Having this done prevents the need to re-waterproof surfaces in areas like balconies, kitchens, and bathrooms (you'll need a contractor to figure out the cost since it varies by unit).

2. Size of Unit.

It stands to reason, the larger the unit, the most it will cost to renovate.

It is important to keep in mind that older resale units are typically larger than newer ones. In the 1980s, the average 4-room flat was about 1,130 square feet.

Currently, the average 4-room apartment is about 969 square feet. Renovation costs are more closely correlated with the size of the unit than with its age. Buying a new condo unit isn't just about the difference in size - and the renovation costs associated with cutting up and replacing floors, walls, repainting, etc. over a greater area won't be comparable between a new and an older condo.

When you're buying an older resale unit, keep in mind that the space may be bigger - but that size will work against you on the renovation front. Before you decide to purchase a giant unit from the 1980s, remember that the maximum renovation loan is only $30,000.

3. The Current State Of Plumbing And Electrical Work.

If the plumbing is in good condition, this can save you money.

Several hundred dollars distinguish a new unit from a resale unit without extensive work on plumbing (and this assumes the new unit comes as is with basic fixtures).

There might not be a difference in cost between new and resale renovations if there is no electrical work required, and all light fixtures are in good working condition.

Make sure the property is in great shape before buying it to avoid high resale renovation costs. Make sure the seller fixes any plumbing or electrical issues before you buy the unit (or offer a lower price to compensate). 

4. Appliances

Relocating or replacing aircon will drive up costs.

Relocating the air conditioner is one thing you want to avoid. The wiring and piping need to be rerun; this can cost over $2,000 in some cases (at which point a new system may be more worthwhile).

Though refrigerators are usually replaced anyway, you might check to make sure the resale unit includes a functioning washing machine and dryer.

If all of these things are in good working order, you may not have to spend as much on a resale renovation after all. 

In Summary.

The fact that resale properties always come with a higher renovation cost is not true. Several of the cost differences we've outlined can be avoided. Several of the cost differences we've outlined can be avoided.