Planning a full home renovation in Sydney requires a clear understanding of costs, timelines, and hidden expenses. With rising labour rates and material costs in 2026, homeowners must budget accurately before starting.
Complete home renovations significantly boost both comfort and resale value, but costs vary depending on size, finishes, and structural changes.
Average Full Home Renovation Cost Sydney (2026)
- Basic renovation: $2,000 – $3,000 per m²
- Standard renovation: $3,000–$5,000/m²
- High-end renovation: $5,000 – $8,000+ per m²
Average full renovation budget: $150k–$500k+
Premium renovations often go beyond $800k in Sydney
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Real Sydney Cost Examples
- Small home (100m²): $200,000 – $400,000
- Medium home (150m²): $300,000 – $750,000
- 250m² renovation: $600k–$1.2M+
Major layout changes and high-end materials push costs higher
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Cost Breakdown (Where Your Money Goes)
Labour Costs (35%–50%)
- Sydney labour is among the highest in Australia
- Skilled labour adds to budget
Kitchen Renovation
- Kitchen renovation: $25k–$65k+
Bathroom Renovation
- Bathroom cost: $15k–$35k each
Flooring
- $80 – $250 per m² depending on material
Painting
- Full house painting: $15k–$40k
Electrical & Plumbing
- $20,000 – $80,000+
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Biggest Cost Drivers
- Major structural work
- Kitchen and bathroom upgrades
- Premium selections increase budget
- Outdated wiring and plumbing
Renovating older properties usually adds unexpected expenses
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Hidden Costs to Watch Out For
- Asbestos removal cost: $10k–$30k
- Council approvals and permits
- Temporary accommodation
- Hidden damage costs
These hidden costs can add 10%–25% to your total budget
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Timeline for Full Home Renovation
- Small renovation: 2–4 months
- Average timeline: 4–8 months
- Large renovation: 6–12+ months
Project timelines often extend due to external factors
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Apartment vs House Renovation Cost
Apartment
- Higher compliance and strata restrictions
- Limited access increases labour cost
House
- More flexibility in design and layout
- Lower restrictions compared to apartments
Apartment renovations often cost more per m² despite smaller size
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Cost Saving Tips
- Avoid moving plumbing and walls
- Mix budget and premium finishes
- Reduce changes during construction
- Avoid costly mistakes
Smart planning can reduce renovation costs by 10%–30%
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ROI & Property Value in Sydney
- Full renovations can increase property value significantly
- Wet areas provide best returns
- Modern layouts attract higher buyers
Sydney property market rewards well-executed renovations with strong capital growth
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Final Verdict (Sydney 2026)
Expect to pay $2k–$8k+ per square metre in Sydney
- Entry-level renovations from $150k
- Typical projects: $300k–$600k
- Luxury renovations exceed $800,000+
Overall price varies based on scope and here finishes
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