Condo renovation costs in Singapore have shifted noticeably in 2026. Material prices have stabilised after the post-pandemic volatility, but labour costs continue to rise — and the growing demand for smart home features and sustainable materials is adding new line items to renovation budgets. Whether you own a brand-new launch or an older resale unit, here's what you can realistically expect to budget in 2026.

Average Condo Renovation Costs in Singapore 2026

Resale units cost significantly more because they typically require hacking of existing finishes, rewiring, and more extensive structural work before new installations can begin.

Room-by-Room Cost Breakdown (3-Bedroom Resale Condo)

Living & Dining Room: $12,000 – $22,000

• Feature wall (fluted panels, stone veneer, or wallpaper): $2,000 – $5,000

• Built-in TV console and storage: $3,000 – $6,000

• Lighting (recessed, cove, pendants): $2,000 – $4,000

• Flooring (vinyl planks or engineered timber): $3,000 – $6,000

• False ceiling: $2,000 – $3,500

Kitchen: $10,000 – $20,000

• Full custom cabinetry: $5,000 – $10,000

• Quartz countertop: $1,500 – $3,000

• Built-in appliances (hood, hob, oven, dishwasher): $3,000 – $7,000

• Backsplash tiling: $800 – $2,000

Master Bedroom: $8,000 – $15,000

• Built-in wardrobe: $3,500 – $7,000

• Bed frame and headboard (custom): $2,000 – $4,000

• Feature wall: $800 – $2,000

• Air-conditioning (replace unit): $1,200 – $2,500

Common Bedrooms (×2): $4,000 – $8,000 each

• Built-in wardrobe and study table

• Lighting and air-conditioning

Bathrooms (×2): $8,000 – $16,000 total

• Full hack and retile: $2,500 – $4,500 per bathroom

• Sanitary fittings and accessories: $1,500 – $3,000 per bathroom

• Glass shower screen: $800 – $1,500

Other Works: $8,000 – $15,000

• Electrical rewiring and power points: $3,000 – $5,000

• Painting (full unit): $2,500 – $4,000

• Plumbing works: $1,500 – $3,000

• Smart home installation: $1,500 – $5,000

Key Factors That Affect Your Budget

1. Age and condition of the unit Older resale condos (15+ years) often require more hacking, rewiring, and plumbing work — adding $10,000–$30,000 to the base budget. Always factor in a 10–15% contingency for older units.

2. Choice of ID firm vs. contractor-only Engaging an interior designer adds design fees (typically $3,000–$8,000) but provides project management, 3D visualisations, and coordinated scheduling. A contractor-only approach is cheaper but requires significantly more owner involvement and coordination.

3. Material selection Italian marble vs. local porcelain tiles. Custom millwork vs. off-the-shelf cabinetry. Branded German appliances vs. local alternatives. Material choices alone can shift your budget by 30–40%.

4. Smart home integration Voice-controlled lighting, automated curtains, video doorbells, and smart air-con systems are increasingly popular — and increasingly expensive. Budget $3,000–$8,000 for a proper smart home setup.

5. Renovation timeline Rush jobs cost more. Off-peak scheduling (avoiding Chinese New Year and the year-end holiday period) typically offers 5–10% savings on labour costs.

New Launch vs. Resale: Which Costs More to Renovate?

For new launches, the developer finishes are your starting point — you're adding rather than replacing. For resale, budget for the unexpected.

5 Ways to Manage Your Renovation Budget

1. Prioritise the kitchen and bathrooms — these have the highest impact on daily living and resale value

2. Choose local or regional suppliers for cabinetry and tiles (comparable quality at 30–40% lower cost than European brands)

3. Get 3–5 quotes before committing — renovation costs in Singapore vary significantly between firms for identical scopes

4. Avoid scope creep — changes mid-project are the biggest budget killer; finalise your design before work starts

5. Time it right — scheduling between March–May or August–October (off-peak) often means faster timelines and more competitive pricing

What Does $50,000 Get You in 2026?

For a new launch 2-bedroom condo (~700 sq ft), $50,000 is a workable budget that covers:

• Full kitchen renovation with custom cabinetry and built-in appliances

• Master bedroom wardrobe and feature wall

• New flooring throughout

• Fresh paint and lighting upgrades

• One bathroom refresh (not full hack)

For a resale unit of the same size, $50,000 covers a moderate renovation — possibly without full hacking or complete bathroom overhaul. You'll need to prioritise essentials over premium finishes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to hire an interior designer for a condo renovation? No — you can engage a general contractor directly. But for complex renovations or if you want a cohesive design vision, an ID firm adds real value through project management and design coordination.

How long does a condo renovation take in Singapore? New launch: 6–10 weeks. Resale with hacking: 10–16 weeks. Complex landed or large-unit projects: 4–6 months. Always add 2–3 weeks for buffer — delays from material lead times or permit approvals are common.

Can I renovate during weekdays if my condo has restrictions? Most condos allow renovation work Monday–Saturday, typically 9am–6pm. Check your management corporation (MCST) rules before signing contracts — some estates have additional noise restrictions or specific operating hours.

Is renovation loan financing worth it? For renovations above $30,000, a renovation loan (typically 6–8% p.a. in Singapore) spreads the cost over 1–5 years. Compare rates across banks before deciding, and only borrow what you can comfortably repay.

A well-planned renovation budget isn't just about the final number — it's about knowing where your money is going, what's genuinely necessary, and where you can save without compromising quality. Start with a clear scope, get multiple quotes, and always leave room for the unexpected. That's the smartest investment you'll make in your home.