One of the most expensive possessions that you can acquire in Singapore is a home. Given that it is an investment, people want to make their home as comfortable and presentable as possible. However, doing a home renovation can cost you a lot.
HOW MUCH DOES IT ACTUALLY COST?
In Singapore, the ultimate cost of renovation depends on the several factors. Firstly, the type of home will determine the scope of renovation. This refers to whether you live in a condominium, an HDB flat or a landed property. The next factor is the age and condition of your home. The extent and type of renovation work for a brand new BTO differs from a decade-old resale flat.
Thirdly, the type of materials to be used for the renovation must be considered. It is up to you to choose affordable or high-end materials. The contractor or interior design firm is also up to you. Shop around to find the firm that suits you best. Lastly, your total cost will be influenced by how much work you want done. Starting with a blank canvas can cost more than renovating a single room.
You can expect to pay from S$5,000 to over S$100,000 when you are renovating a 4-Room HDB flat (i.e., approximately 90 sq m). Remember that all the aforementioned factors will influence the renovation costs. In fact, Qanvast stated that the average 4-room HDB BTO flat renovation was estimated to cost about S$43,000 to S$45,000 in 2020. Since renovating a resale flat is more extensive and expensive, the expected cost was from S$45,000 to S$52,000.
WHAT ARE YOUR LOAN OPTIONS?
If you are looking for financial aid, you will apply for a renovation loan. Renovation loans are different from personal loans. With personal loans, you receive the money in cash. The institution does not know what you are going to do with the money, so it is riskier for them to lend it to you. As a result, personal loan interest rates are generally high.
On the other hand, renovation loans work by giving the money directly to your contractor. Because the bank knows exactly what you are going to do with the money, they can charge you lower interest rates. Renovation loan interest rates are usually less than 5% p.a.
Before you can apply for the renovation loan, you need to have the contractor’s invoice or quotation signed by both parties. Renovation loans can let you borrow up to S$30,000 or 6 times your monthly income, whichever amount is lower. You can repay this in monthly installments.
HOW CAN YOU REDUCE YOUR RENOVATION COSTS?
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#1: Determine what you want.
Not all design styles are created equal – some cost more than others. Experts suggest that the most affordable style is the Scandinavian interiors as it involves simpler aesthetics and fewer built-in carpentry.
Knowing which design style you want, and which rooms you want to renovate will help you determine the total renovation costs.
#2: Paint your walls.
You can save money by painting your walls or an accent wall instead of using wallpaper or building a feature wall.
It is a practical choice if you want to change your home’s look every couple of years. You see, wallpaper or stone are notoriously difficult to remove.
#3: Have less built-in furniture.
Carpentry can take up a substantial chunk of your renovation costs. To reduce your expenses, you can make a list of your top five carpentry must-haves. Your priorities must revolve around custom solutions that require real design work that you cannot easily purchase. For things that you can easily purchase, you can buy as you go along with the renovation.
#4: Compare the available renovation firms.
There are a myriad of renovation, interior design, and contractor firms in Singapore. Different companies tend to provide different price structures. It is best to research all the available options to find the best company that suits both your budget and preferences.
#5: Keep or sell unused items.
When renovating your home, you may find some unused items such as excess paint or wood. It is recommended that you sell these items to make some money. This money can be used to reduce your overall renovation costs.