Are you dreaming of giving your home a fresh look but worried about the high costs of renovation? You don’t have to spend a fortune to upgrade your home. With the right planning, smart shopping, and DIY skills, you can achieve an affordable home renovation that meets your needs and budget. In this article, we will share some budget-friendly home renovation tips and tricks for Singaporean homeowners.
Plan and Set a Budget
The first step in your home renovation project is to plan and set a budget. Here is a common home renovation checklist that you can use as a guide to plan your renovation project and set a realistic budget:
| Renovation Checklist | Estimated Cost in SGD |
|---|---|
| Painting (3-4 room HDB flat) | 800 – 1,200 |
| Changing floor tiles (3-4 room HDB flat) | 3,000 – 5,000 |
| Kitchen cabinet installation | 3,000 – 5,000 |
| Bathroom renovation | 6,000 – 10,000 |
| Electrical rewiring (3-4 room HDB flat) | 2,000 – 4,000 |
| Aircon installation (per unit) | 1,000 – 1,500 |
Once you have a clear idea of what you want to achieve, create a list of all the materials, labour, and other costs involved. This will help you set a realistic budget and avoid overspending.
DIY Renovations
Doing some of the renovations yourself can save you a significant amount of money on labour costs. Here are some popular DIY renovation projects that are possible for Singaporean homeowners:
- Repainting walls and ceilings
- Installing shelves and storage cabinets
- Changing light fixtures and switches
- Laying vinyl flooring
- Installing shower screens and bathroom accessories
Remember, DIY renovations are not suitable for all projects. Be honest about your skills and capabilities and hire a professional for complex or dangerous projects.
Shop Smart for Materials
When shopping for renovation materials, always compare prices from different suppliers and look for sales, discounts, and clearance deals. Here are some estimated price ranges for common renovation materials in SGD:
| Materials | Estimated Price Range in SGD |
|---|---|
| Tiles (per sq. ft.) | 2 – 10 |
| Paint (per gallon) | 25 – 80 |
| Kitchen cabinets (per linear ft.) | 120 – 250 |
| Bathroom fixtures (per piece) | 50 – 300 |
| Light fixtures (per piece) | 30 – 100 |
Using recycled or reclaimed materials is another way to save money on your renovation. Consider using recycled timber, bricks, or tiles to create a unique and affordable look.
Invest in Energy-Efficient Upgrades
Investing in energy-efficient upgrades can save you money on your utility bills in the long run. Consider upgrading to LED lighting, installing low-flow showerheads and faucets, and using water-saving toilets. These upgrades can also increase the value of your home and make it more attractive to potential buyers.
Hire a Professional Contractor
If your renovation requires extensive work or you don’t have the skills to complete the project, it’s best to hire a professional contractor. Research and compare quotes from different contractors to find the best deal. Ask for referrals from friends, look Singapore renovation portal and family and check their references before signing any contracts.
In conclusion, upgrading your home on a budget is achievable with careful planning and smart choices. Focus on essential repairs and maintenance, shop smart for materials, and consider using recycled or reclaimed materials to save money. Set a realistic budget and stick to it, and don’t be afraid to do some of the work yourself to save on labour costs