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

Average full renovation budget: $150k–$500k+

Premium renovations often go beyond $800k in Sydney

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Real Sydney Cost Examples

• 100m² renovation: $200k–$400k
• 150m² renovation: $300k–$750k
• 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

• $25,000 – $65,000+

Bathroom Renovation

• $15,000 – $35,000 per bathroom

Flooring

• $80 – $250 per m² depending on material

Painting

• $15,000 – $40,000

Electrical & Plumbing

• Services upgrade: $20k–$80k+

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Biggest Cost Drivers

• Structural changes (removing walls, extensions)
• Kitchen and bathroom upgrades
• Premium selections increase budget
• Outdated wiring and plumbing

Older Sydney homes often require additional compliance work which increases cost significantly

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Hidden Costs to Watch Out For

• Asbestos removal cost: $10k–$30k
• Council approvals and permits
• Living elsewhere during renovation
• Unexpected structural repairs

Unexpected expenses can significantly increase overall full home renovation cost Sydney cost

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Timeline for Full Home Renovation

• Small renovation: 2–4 months
• Standard renovation: 4–8 months
• Large renovation: 6–12+ months

Delays are common due to approvals, materials, and labour availability

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Apartment vs House Renovation Cost

Apartment

• Strata rules increase complexity
• Limited access increases labour cost

House

• More flexibility in design and layout
• Lower restrictions compared to apartments

Units can be more expensive per square metre

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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

• Renovations boost resale value
• Kitchen and bathroom upgrades deliver highest ROI
• Modern layouts attract higher buyers

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

• Budget projects start from $150,000
• Mid-range renovations: $300,000 – $600,000
• Luxury renovations exceed $800,000+

Overall price varies based on scope and finishes

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