Renovating your condominium in Singapore can be an exciting milestone — whether you’re upgrading an older resale unit or fitting out a new launch project. But before diving into design mood boards and contractor meetings, it’s crucial to understand what it will cost you. Condo renovations, especially in Singapore’s competitive real estate market, come with a unique set of considerations and price ranges.
In this comprehensive 2025 budgeting guide, we break down the cost of condo renovations in Singapore, including typical expenses, price ranges by room, and expert tips to help you stay on track financially.
1. Average Condo Renovation Cost in Singapore (2025)
Renovation costs vary based on the size of the unit, design complexity, materials used, and whether the unit is brand new or resale.
💰 Estimated Cost Range by Type:
| Condo Type | Approx. Cost (Basic) | Approx. Cost (Mid-Range) | Approx. Cost (High-End) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-Bedroom (400–600 sqft) | $20,000 – $35,000 | $35,000 – $60,000 | $60,000 – $90,000 |
| 2-Bedroom (600–900 sqft) | $25,000 – $45,000 | $45,000 – $75,000 | $75,000 – $120,000 |
| 3-Bedroom (900–1200 sqft) | $35,000 – $60,000 | $60,000 – $100,000 | $100,000 – $160,000 |
| Penthouse / Large Unit | $60,000+ | $100,000+ | $180,000+ |
Note: These are general estimates. Prices may fluctuate depending on materials, labour, MCST guidelines, and scope of work.
2. New Condo vs. Resale Condo Renovation Costs
🆕 Newly TOP Condos:
- Lower cost as units are move-in ready.
- Focus on custom carpentry, lighting, and minor aesthetic upgrades.
- Budget: $20,000 to $50,000
🏚️ Resale Condos:
- Higher costs due to hacking, rewiring, waterproofing, and retiling.
- Often includes overhauls of kitchens and bathrooms.
- Budget: $40,000 to $100,000+
Tip: Always inspect resale units thoroughly for hidden issues like plumbing, waterproofing, and uneven flooring before budgeting.
3. Breakdown by Room and Feature
🛋️ Living Room
- Feature wall (TV unit): $2,500 – $8,000
- False ceiling with cove lighting: $1,800 – $4,000
- Flooring (vinyl/laminate/marble): $6 – $20/sqft
🍽️ Dining Area
- Built-in storage or bar counter: $2,000 – $6,000
- Feature lighting: $300 – $1,500
🍳 Kitchen
- Cabinetry: $4,000 – $15,000
- Countertop (Quartz/Granite): $100 – $250/ft
- Appliances (Hob, Hood, Oven): $2,000 – $6,000
- Plumbing: $500 – $1,500
🛏️ Bedroom
- Wardrobe: $2,000 – $7,000
- Custom platform bed: $2,000 – $5,000
- Window treatments: $300 – $2,000
🚿 Bathroom
- Hacking and waterproofing: $2,500 – $5,000
- Vanity and basin: $1,000 – $3,000
- Shower screen and fittings: $1,500 – $4,000
- Tiles and accessories: $3 – $15/sqft
🧱 General Works
- Painting (whole unit): $1,200 – $3,500
- Electrical wiring: $2,000 – $5,000
- Air-con installation: $3,000 – $8,000
- Lighting and switches: $1,000 – $4,000
4. Factors That Influence Condo Renovation Costs
✅ 1. Design Complexity
Minimalist designs are often more affordable than intricate luxury or thematic concepts.
✅ 2. Quality of Materials
Imported tiles, quartz countertops, or Italian fittings come at a premium compared to local options.
✅ 3. Extent of Hacking/Overhaul
Removing walls, flooring, and existing fixtures adds labour and debris disposal costs.
✅ 4. Built-in vs. Loose Furniture
Custom carpentry costs more upfront but offers a better fit and resale value.
✅ 5. MCST Restrictions
Your condo’s management may limit work hours, methods, and material transport, potentially increasing project duration and labour fees.
5. Cost-Saving Tips Without Compromising Quality
💡 1. Prioritise Functional Areas
Focus your budget on areas you use the most: kitchen, master bedroom, and living space. Secondary bedrooms or guest bathrooms can be done more modestly.
💡 2. Mix High and Low Materials
Use premium materials in high-visibility areas (e.g. countertops, feature walls) and budget-friendly alternatives in hidden spaces (e.g. inside cabinets).
💡 3. Opt for Modular Furniture
Instead of custom-built-ins for every room, choose modular or pre-fabricated furniture to cut costs while retaining style.
💡 4. Work With a Trusted Interior Designer
An experienced condo interior designer can help prevent costly mistakes, recommend cost-effective options, and provide contractor discounts.
6. Hidden Costs to Watch Out For
⚠️ 1. MCST Renovation Deposit
- Refundable but required upfront
- Range: $500 – $2,000
⚠️ 2. Permit Application Fees
- For hacking or plumbing works
- Some condos may charge admin fees
⚠️ 3. GST
- Not all renovation quotes include GST
- Always clarify if prices are nett
⚠️ 4. Debris Removal
- Hacking jobs require professional disposal
- Cost: $300 – $1,000 depending on volume
⚠️ 5. Temporary Housing
- If your renovation takes 2–3 months, you may need temporary lodging
- Factor in rental or hotel costs
7. Financing Your Condo Renovation
Renovation costs can be paid using:
- Cash or CPF savings (only for resale properties and with HDB approval)
- Personal loans: Renovation loans from banks in Singapore usually offer:
- Interest rates: 3% – 5% per annum
- Loan tenure: 1 – 5 years
- Loan limits: Up to 6x your monthly salary or $30,000 (whichever is lower)
💳 Recommended Banks (2025):
- DBS Renovation Loan
- OCBC Renovation Loan
- Maybank Renovation Loan
- CIMB Renovation Loan
Always compare packages, interest rates, and processing fees before committing.
8. How Long Does a Condo Renovation Take?
Timeline depends on the scope of works:
| Type of Renovation | Duration |
|---|---|
| Light makeover | 3 – 5 weeks |
| Full renovation (new unit) | 6 – 8 weeks |
| Full overhaul (resale) | 8 – 12 weeks |
Some MCSTs limit noisy works to certain hours/days, which may extend the timeline.
9. When to Renovate — and When to Wait
📈 Renovate Now If:
- You’ve secured a resale unit with outdated interiors.
- You want to increase rental or resale value quickly.
- You’re moving in and want it fully done beforehand.
⏳ Wait If:
- You’re still in the DLP (Defects Liability Period) for a new launch.
- Your budget is tight and interest rates for loans are high.
- You’re unsure about your long-term plans for the property.
10. Work with Condo Renovation Experts
Hiring the right interior design firm makes all the difference. Choose a company that:
- Specialises in condo renovations
- Understands MCST regulations
- Has a reliable network of carpenters, electricians, and tilers
- Offers transparent costing with no hidden fees
A good designer will help you budget wisely, avoid renovation mistakes, and manage the entire project on your behalf.
Final Thoughts: Plan Smart, Spend Wisely
Your home is likely your biggest investment — and a well-executed condo renovation in Singapore can significantly enhance both comfort and property value. However, without proper planning, it’s easy for costs to spiral out of control.
By understanding the realistic costs, timeline, and hidden fees, you can make informed decisions and get the most out of your renovation budget in 2025.
Looking to renovate your condo in Singapore?
Our team of experienced designers offers transparent pricing, expert project management, and beautiful, functional condo makeovers tailored to your budget. Contact us today for a no-obligation consultation.