Planning a home renovation in Melbourne can be exciting, but the cost can quickly become confusing. Every renovation is different. A small kitchen update will not cost the same as a full home makeover or an extension.
Your choice of materials, the size of your home, the type of work and the level of finishes will all affect your final budget. Labour costs and the condition of your existing home also play an important role.
So, how much should you expect to spend on a home renovation in Melbourne? Here is a simple guide to help you understand the likely costs and plan your project.
Average Home Renovation Costs in Melbourne
The cost of renovating a Melbourne home can vary widely depending on the project. A basic renovation may cost around $20,000 to $50,000, while a more extensive renovation can range from $100,000 to $300,000 or more.
For a general guide, you can expect costs to fall into these ranges.
- Small renovations can cost around $20,000 to $50,000
- Medium renovations can cost around $50,000 to $150,000
- Large or full-home renovations can cost around $150,000 to $300,000 or more
These figures provide a starting point rather than a fixed quote. Your actual cost will depend on what you want to change and the materials and finishes you select.
What Does a Kitchen Renovation Cost?
The kitchen often becomes one of the biggest expenses in a renovation because it involves several trades and materials.
A basic kitchen renovation may cost around $15,000 to $25,000. A mid-range renovation can cost approximately $25,000 to $45,000, while a high-end kitchen renovation can exceed $50,000.
Cabinetry, benchtops, appliances, flooring, lighting and plumbing can all add to the final price.
You can control the budget by keeping the existing layout where possible. Moving plumbing, electrical points and walls can increase labour and installation costs.
Bathroom Renovation Costs
Bathrooms may have less floor space than kitchens, but they can still cost a significant amount to renovate.
A basic bathroom renovation may start from around $15,000, while a mid-range renovation can cost between $20,000 and $30,000. A premium bathroom with high-end fittings and finishes can cost $30,000 or more.
Waterproofing, tiling, plumbing, fixtures, cabinetry and electrical work all contribute to the cost.
If you want to reduce expenses, consider keeping the existing plumbing locations. Changing the position of sinks, toilets or showers can require additional plumbing work.
Living Areas and Bedrooms
Renovating living rooms and bedrooms often costs less than renovating kitchens and bathrooms. However, the final price still depends on the work involved.
Painting, flooring, lighting and minor repairs can create a noticeable change without requiring a large budget.
For example, repainting several rooms can cost a few thousand dollars, depending on the size of the home and the type of paint you choose. New flooring can also increase the overall cost, especially if you select timber or premium materials.
You can often save money in these areas by focusing on cosmetic improvements rather than structural changes.
Home Extensions and Structural Renovations
If you want more space, you may consider extending your Melbourne home. Extensions usually require a much larger budget because the project can involve excavation, structural work, roofing, plumbing, electrical work and approvals.
A home extension can cost $100,000 to $300,000 or more, depending on its size, design and finishes.
Structural renovations can also increase costs quickly. Removing walls, changing the layout or modifying the roof may require engineers, architects and specialist trades.
Before starting this type of project, create a detailed budget and understand the approvals you may need.
What Factors Affect Renovation Costs?
Several factors can change the cost of your renovation.
Size of the project
A larger renovation naturally requires more materials, labour and time.
Materials and finishes
Standard materials usually cost less than premium products. Your choices for tiles, flooring, cabinetry, appliances, tapware and fixtures can make a major difference.
Labour
Melbourne renovation projects often involve several trades. You may need builders, electricians, plumbers, painters, tilers and carpenters. The more complex the work, the more labour you may need.
Structural changes
Moving walls or changing the layout can increase costs because the work often requires additional planning and specialist services.
Age and condition of the home
Older Melbourne homes can sometimes reveal unexpected problems once renovation work begins. Damaged structures, outdated wiring, plumbing issues or other hidden problems can increase the budget.
Remember to Include Extra Costs
Your renovation budget should cover more than materials and labour. You may also need to account for design fees, permits, inspections, waste removal and temporary accommodation if the work makes your home difficult to live in.
It also helps to keep a contingency budget. Setting aside around 10% to 20% of your renovation budget can give you some protection against unexpected expenses.
For example, if you plan to spend $100,000, keeping an additional $10,000 to $20,000 available can help you manage unexpected costs without putting your entire project under pressure.
How Can You Keep Your Renovation Within Budget?
Start by deciding what matters most to you. You do not need to renovate every room at once.
Create a clear list of priorities and get detailed quotes before work begins. Compare the scope of each quote rather than choosing a contractor based only on the lowest price.
Try to avoid making major changes once construction starts. Changes can increase labour costs and delay the project.
You can also save money by choosing durable mid-range materials instead of paying for premium finishes everywhere.
Plan Your Melbourne Renovation Carefully
There is no single price for renovating a home in Melbourne. A small project may cost $20,000 to $50,000, while a full renovation or extension can reach $300,000 or more.
The best way to control your spending is to plan your renovation carefully, understand where your money will go and allow room for unexpected costs.
At Lion Property Solutions, we understand that every home renovation is different. We work closely with our clients to understand their needs, plan the project carefully and help them make practical choices that suit their home and budget. Whether you are planning a small update or a larger renovation, our team is here to help make the process simpler from start to finish.