Sydney Home Renovation Cost Guide 2025
Why Renovation Costs Are Changing in 2025
In 2025, more Sydney homeowners are investing in renovations to improve lifestyle, boost property value, and make the most of rising real estate prices. As the market continues to shift, renovation costs are also evolving. This is driven by increased demand, fluctuations in material pricing, and skilled labour shortages.
Projects that once seemed straightforward can now involve unexpected complexities, especially when permits and approvals are required. Material costs remain volatile, and qualified trades are in high demand, particularly across the Inner West and Eastern Suburbs.
The good news? While building costs have steadily increased over the past few years, prices have now stabilised, making 2025 an ideal time to plan and invest in your home renovation.
Understanding the key cost drivers (like project scope, finishes, and regulatory fees) can help homeowners plan with confidence, avoid budget blowouts, and achieve high-quality results. Working with an experienced and reliable home renovation company in Sydney ensures each stage of the project runs smoothly, from design to final handover.
Factors That Impact Home Renovation Costs in Sydney
Renovation costs can vary significantly depending on the scale and style of the project. In Sydney, several key factors influence the total spend:
Size & Scope of the Renovation
The bigger the project, the higher the cost. This is especially true when structural changes are involved. Cosmetic updates like painting or replacing fixtures are far more affordable than knocking down walls, reconfiguring layouts, or extending the home.Material Choices
Premium finishes such as stone benchtops, custom joinery, or imported tiles can quickly raise your renovation budget. More budget-friendly materials can still deliver great aesthetics and function when chosen wisely.Labour Costs & Trade Availability
Sydney’s strong renovation market means skilled trades are in high demand, particularly in sought-after areas like Balmain, Coogee, and Bondi. Labour rates can vary based on the trades required and their availability during your build timeline.Permits & Approval Fees
For larger renovations, development approvals or complying development certificates may be needed, depending on your local council regulations. These come with both time and financial costs, especially in heritage-listed areas or suburbs with strict planning controls.
Carefully considering these factors upfront can help you refine your scope and make informed decisions that align with your budget and long-term goals.
Expected Home Renovation Costs in 2025
Small Renovations (Cosmetic Updates)
Estimated cost: $10,000 – $50,000
Small-scale renovations are ideal for homeowners looking to refresh the look and feel of their home without major construction. These cosmetic upgrades focus on surface-level changes that make a noticeable impact without altering the structural layout.
Typical inclusions:
Repainting interiors for a clean, modern finish
Updating flooring (e.g. timber, laminate, or tiles)
Replacing outdated lighting fixtures or installing energy-efficient LED options
Swapping out doors, handles, tapware, and fittings
Minor kitchen or bathroom improvements, such as new benchtops, splashbacks, or vanity units
These projects often don’t require council approvals, making them quicker and more cost-effective to complete. They’re particularly popular among homeowners preparing their property for sale or looking to improve comfort and style on a modest budget.
Even with smaller renovations, planning is key. Clear goals, smart material choices, and hiring skilled trades can make a big difference in achieving a high-quality result within budget.
Medium Renovations (Partial Remodels)
Estimated cost: $50,000 – $300,000
Medium-scale renovations go beyond aesthetic updates and begin to reshape how a home functions. These projects often involve working with builders, designers, and trades to reimagine specific areas while keeping the overall structure of the home intact.
Typical inclusions:
Full kitchen remodels with new cabinetry, appliances, and benchtops
Bathroom renovations with upgraded fixtures, tiling, and layout changes
Removing internal walls to create open-plan living areas
Installing new flooring, windows, or built-in storage
Updating essential services like plumbing, electricals, and insulation
Adding a new room, such as a home office, bedroom, or laundry
While not as complex as a full-home transformation, these projects often require approvals depending on the scale of work and local council rules. Approval will most likely be needed when making structural changes or altering the floor plan.
Medium renovations are ideal for homeowners who want to improve the way their home functions day-to-day, modernise tired spaces, or accommodate a growing family.
Large Renovations (Full House Makeover)
Estimated cost: $300,000 +
Large-scale renovations involve a complete transformation of the home, often addressing both aesthetics and structure. These are significant investments, but they offer the opportunity to tailor a home precisely to your lifestyle and long-term needs.
Typical inclusions:
Full interior reconfiguration, including major structural work
Replacing or relocating kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry areas
Upgrading plumbing, electricals, and heating/cooling systems throughout
High-end finishes such as stone benchtops, engineered timber floors, and custom joinery
Smart home automation, energy-efficient systems, and improved insulation
Enhancing street appeal with updated façades, roofing, windows, or landscaping
Projects of this scale often require architectural plans, structural engineering, and multiple approvals from local councils. Heritage areas or homes with specific zoning requirements in particular will need approval.
For homeowners with long-term plans, a full house renovation can completely redefine a property, adding significant value while creating a beautiful, functional space to grow into. Choosing a trusted and experienced builder like Sure Space is essential to manage the complexity, cost, and timeline involved.
Budgeting Tips for a Cost-Effective Renovation
No matter the scale of your renovation, smart budgeting can make a significant difference to the final outcome. Planning ahead helps you avoid overspending, manage expectations, and achieve a high-quality result without unnecessary stress.
Set a Clear Budget (then add a buffer)
Start with a realistic figure based on the type of renovation you're planning, and always include a contingency of 10–15% for unexpected costs. Surprises like outdated wiring, hidden water damage, or changes during construction can quickly eat into your budget.
Know When to Save and When to Spend
Focus your budget on areas where quality matters most, such as waterproofing, structural work, and high-use spaces like kitchens and bathrooms. Save by selecting cost-effective alternatives for cosmetic items, such as lighting, tiles, or cabinetry hardware.
Consider Staged Renovations
If your ideal renovation is out of reach right now, consider breaking it into phases. Prioritise critical areas first (such as structural updates or essential rooms) then complete the remaining work as time and budget allow.
Understand Council and Permit Costs
Permits, design fees, and consultant reports can add thousands to your project. Ask your builder upfront what’s required for your suburb and whether these fees are included in their pricing.
Being financially prepared gives you greater control over the renovation process and helps ensure the final result aligns with your goals.
Get a Detailed Cost Analysis
One of the most valuable steps when planning a home renovation is to commission a detailed cost analysis early in the process. This upfront investment ensures your builder has carefully assessed your project, sourced accurate pricing, and outlined a clear, transparent scope of work.
It’s a worthwhile step that gives you clarity on the true cost of your renovation and helps you make better informed decisions early on. This level of detail can ultimately save time, money, and unnecessary stress.
How to Choose the Right Renovation Company in Sydney
Design and materials play a big role in any renovation, but it’s the expertise of the team delivering the work that truly determines the outcome. The right renovation company delivers quality while guiding you through the process with clarity, professionalism, and reliability.
Look for Proven Experience in Home Renovations
Choose a builder with a strong track record in the type of renovation you're planning—whether it's a full house makeover, a second-storey addition, or a targeted update to key areas. Experience navigating Sydney’s unique housing stock, council requirements, and architectural styles is a major advantage.Prioritise Transparency and Communication
Clear communication around timelines, budgets, and potential risks builds trust from the beginning. A good renovation company will provide detailed quotes, realistic schedules, and regular updates throughout the build.Ensure They Are Licensed and Insured
Always work with licensed builders who carry appropriate insurance. This protects you in the event of accidents, defects, or disputes. You can verify builder licences through NSW Fair Trading.Check Reviews and Past Work
Ask to see completed projects and read client testimonials. Feedback from other homeowners can provide insight into how the company manages budgets, timelines, and quality control.
Why Sure Space Is a Trusted Choice
Sure Space brings extensive experience in delivering tailored renovations across Sydney’s Inner West and Eastern Suburbs. Led by Master Builder Darren Long, the team has a reputation for quality craftsmanship, transparent processes, and a genuine focus on client satisfaction. From initial consultation to final handover, Sure Space ensures every detail is handled with care. The team is committed to having your renovation completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standard.
Start Planning Your 2025 Renovation
If you're considering a renovation in 2025, now is the perfect time to get started. Whether you’re updating a few key rooms or undertaking a full home transformation, having the right team by your side makes all the difference.
Sure Space delivers tailored renovation services across Sydney’s Inner West and Eastern Suburbs, known for quality craftsmanship, transparent communication, and outstanding results. Our team is ready to help you plan, budget, and bring your vision to life.
Get in touch with Sure Space today for a free renovation project assessment, or call us on 1300 724 118 to speak with our team and take the first step toward your next renovation. Let’s create a space that works for you now and into the future.
