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
- Mid-range renovation: $3,000 – $5,000 per m²
- High-end renovation: $5,000 – $8,000+ per m²
Typical full home renovation cost: $150,000 – $500,000+
Large or luxury homes can exceed $800,000+ depending on scope
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Real Sydney Cost Examples
- Small home (100m²): $200,000 – $400,000
- Medium home (150m²): $300,000 – $750,000
- Large home (250m²): $600,000 – $1,200,000+
Costs increase significantly with structural changes and premium finishes
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Cost Breakdown (Where Your Money Goes)
Labour Costs (35%–50%)
- Sydney labour is among the highest in Australia
- Specialist trades increase cost further
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
- Services upgrade: $20k–$80k+
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Biggest Cost Drivers
- Major structural work
- Wet areas drive costs
- 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- Outdated wiring and plumbing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: $10,000 – $30,000
- Council approvals and permits
- Temporary accommodation
- Hidden damage costs
Unexpected expenses can significantly increase overall cost
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Timeline for Full Home Renovation
- Small renovation: 2–4 months
- Average timeline: 4–8 months
- Major projects: 6–12+ months
Delays are common due to approvals, materials, and check here labour availability
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Apartment vs House Renovation Cost
Apartment
- Higher compliance and strata restrictions
- Tight spaces add difficulty
House
- Greater renovation freedom
- Fewer compliance issues
Apartment renovations often cost more per m² despite smaller size
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Cost Saving Tips
- Keep existing layout where possible
- Mix budget and premium finishes
- Plan everything before starting
- Avoid costly mistakes
Good planning leads to major savings
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ROI & Property Value in Sydney
- Full renovations can increase property value significantly
- Wet areas provide best returns
- Open-plan homes sell faster
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
- Mid-range renovations: $300,000 – $600,000
- High-end projects go beyond $800k
The final cost depends on size, materials, and complexity of work
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