HDB Renovation Budget 2026: Complete Cost Guide & Real Pricing

Executive Summary

Planning your HDB renovation in 2026? Understanding realistic renovation budgets prevents costly mistakes and maximizes your investment. This comprehensive guide reveals actual pricing data from Renovation Contractor Singapore (RCS), verified from their complete project portfolio since 2017.

Across Singapore's diverse housing stock, HDB renovation budgets range dramatically: S$25,000–S$85,000 for complete whole-house transformations. However, this variation reflects significant differences between property types, flat sizes, and renovation scopes. This guide decodes exactly what each budget tier delivers and which factors drive costs upward.

Quick Navigation:

• Understanding HDB Renovation Costs

• Budget Tiers Explained

• Flat-Type Cost Breakdown

• Kitchen Renovation Costs

• Bathroom Renovation Costs

• BTO vs Resale Comparison

• Budget Planning Framework

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Understanding HDB Renovation Costs: The Complete Picture

Why Budget Matters in 2026

Singapore's HDB sector undergoes constant evolution. Material costs, labor expenses, and regulatory requirements shift annually. Planning your 2026 renovation requires current data, not outdated assumptions from previous years.

Recent market analysis demonstrates that renovation professionals now emphasize transparent pricing over mysterious quote-based systems. This transparency revolution means homeowners can make confident decisions backed by real numbers rather than vague estimates.

For comprehensive understanding of current regulations and requirements, read the complete HDB Renovation Guide 2025: Rules, Permits & Budget Calculator.

The Reality Behind Budget Variations

Multiple factors explain why two identical-sized HDB flats might have dramatically different renovation costs:

Property Age Impact: New BTO units arrive with modern infrastructure—reliable electrical systems, functional plumbing, contemporary waterproofing. Conversely, resale flats averaging 20–30 years old frequently require infrastructure replacement. A 5-room resale flat might demand complete plumbing replacement (S$2,500–S$6,300), full electrical rewiring (S$5,000–S$15,000), and professional waterproofing restoration (S$2,000–S$4,000 per bathroom). These infrastructure costs simply vanish when renovating new BTOs.

Scope Definition: "Full renovation" means different things to different homeowners. Some focus exclusively on cosmetic updates: new paint, upgraded flooring, kitchen cabinet replacement. Others invest in comprehensive infrastructure overhaul: rewiring, plumbing replacement, structural concrete repair. Clearly defining your scope prevents budget surprises mid-project.

Material Selection: Premium finishes dramatically impact costs. Standard laminate cabinets with basic hardware cost substantially less than high-end acrylic panels with Blum or Hafele hardware—potentially 50–100% more expensive. These decisions compound across the entire flat.

Learn more about selecting the right contractor in our guide: Top 12 HDB Licensed Contractors Singapore 2025.

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Budget Tiers Explained: What Each Price Range Delivers

Entry-Level Renovation: S$25,000–S$35,000

Best For: Budget-conscious homeowners, first-time buyers, cosmetic refreshes

This tier addresses essential elements without major infrastructure overhaul. Expect:

• Kitchen cabinet replacement (standard laminate, soft-close hinges)

• Bathroom tiling and fixture upgrades

• Living area flooring (vinyl overlay or basic tiling)

• Comprehensive painting and simple electrical upgrades

• Basic lighting fixtures

Real Example from RCS: 3-Room HDB Renovation Package 2026 starts at S$25,000, covering kitchen cabinets (10ft top and bottom), bathroom renovations, flooring, electrical work, and professional project management with 3D design rendering.

For detailed breakdown of 3-room options, see our comprehensive guide: 3-Room HDB Renovation Guide 2025-2026: Costs & Design.

Mid-Range Renovation: S$35,000–S$55,000

Best For: Balanced quality seekers, families prioritizing comfort, mixed upgrades

This substantial tier accommodates meaningful improvements across all areas:

• Custom kitchen cabinetry with premium hardware

• Complete bathroom modernization (2 units)

• Quality flooring throughout (tiles or vinyl with proper screeding)

• Enhanced electrical systems (additional power points, relocation where needed)

• Partial carpentry upgrades (wardrobes, feature walls)

• Professional lighting design

• Waterproofing in wet areas

Real Example from RCS: 4-room BTO packages fall in this range, typically S$35,000–S$48,000. The 4-Room BTO Renovation Package Singapore 2025 starts from S$5,590 for kitchen cabinet only, with comprehensive whole-house packages available.

For resale options, 4-Room Resale Flat Renovation Cost Singapore 2025 begins at S$30,490 for budget-focused work, extending to S$37,490 for premium finishes.

Premium Renovation: S$55,000–S$85,000+

Best For: Luxury seekers, comprehensive transformations, resale flats requiring infrastructure work

This tier delivers comprehensive, high-quality renovation addressing every element:

• Extensive custom carpentry (large wardrobes, walk-in closets, platform beds, multiple feature walls)

• Premium kitchen cabinetry (30–40 linear feet for resale flats, high-end hardware, quality countertops)

• Spa-quality bathroom design (premium fixtures, frameless shower screens, heated mirrors)

• Complete plumbing and electrical upgrades

• Full structural repairs and waterproofing

• Advanced lighting systems

• Finishes exceeding standard industry quality

Real Example from RCS: 5-Room HDB Renovation Package 2026 Singapore details comprehensive options. Additionally, Costs for a HDB 5 Room Resale Whole House Renovation explains that whole-house renovations typically reach S$45,000–S$50,000 for controlled scopes (excluding full rewiring, window changes, air conditioning, extensive ceiling works).

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Flat-Type Breakdown: Real Costs by Unit Size

3-Room HDB Renovation Costs

Property Characteristics: Approximately 60–65 square meters, comprising one or two bedrooms, compact kitchen, two bathrooms, and living/dining area

BTO 3-Room Budget Range: S$25,000–S$50,000

RCS documentation confirms 3-Room BTO Renovation Singapore 2025 packages start at S$14,290 for Standard Vinyl, featuring:

• 10ft kitchen cabinet (top and bottom)

• Complete bathroom tiling and fixtures

• Flooring throughout

• Electrical upgrades

• Professional project management

• 3D design consultation

Package Options:

• Standard Vinyl: S$14,290

• Premium Vinyl: S$14,890

• Standard Tiles: S$15,790

• Premium Tiles: S$16,390

Resale 3-Room Budget Range: S$40,000–S$70,000

For resale options, visit 3-Room Resale Renovation Packages showing:

• Premium Package (Hacking): S$35,390–S$36,990

• Premium Package (Vinyl): S$30,490

Resale pricing reflects increased complexity: older plumbing systems requiring replacement, deteriorated electrical infrastructure, outdated waterproofing, and potential structural concerns.

4-Room HDB Renovation Costs

Property Characteristics: Approximately 85–95 square meters, two bedrooms (one larger master), kitchen, two bathrooms, more spacious living area

BTO 4-Room Budget Range: S$35,000–S$65,000

The 4-Room Whole House BTO Package at S$23,990 includes:

• Professional project management and 3D rendering

• Kitchen cabinet hacking and disposal

• Masonry works (overlay tiles kitchen up to 100sqft)

• 10ft kitchen bottom and top cabinets

• Quartz Tier 1 countertop

• 2 toilets complete renovation

• Flooring throughout

• Electrical and plumbing works

• Complete debris disposal

Resale 4-Room Budget Range: S$40,000–S$90,000

HDB 4 Room Resale Renovation Singapore 2026 provides specific pricing from S$30,490. The 4-Room Resale Package Page shows:

• Premium Package (Hacking): S$38,490

• Premium Package (Vinyl): S$37,490 area

For design inspiration, explore HDB 4-Room Renovation Ideas Singapore.

5-Room HDB Renovation Costs

Property Characteristics: Approximately 110–120 square meters, three bedrooms (one larger master), spacious kitchen, two bathrooms, generous living area

BTO 5-Room Budget Range: S$45,000–S$80,000

5-Room BTO Renovation Singapore 2025 shows packages ranging from S$7,790 to S$20,690:

• Bare Unit packages: S$17,490 (vinyl) to S$20,690 (premium tiles)

• Including kitchen, toilets, flooring, and essential works

The comprehensive guide 5-Room BTO Renovation Singapore 2025-26: RCS Packages & Prices details complete options including quality vinyl flooring throughout all bedrooms and living/dining areas.

Resale 5-Room Budget Range: S$45,000–S$110,000+

The authoritative Costs for HDB 5-Room Resale Whole House Renovation demonstrates that whole-house costs range from S$45,000–S$50,000 when homeowners maintain disciplined scope control.

Key insight: 5-room resale flats feature substantially larger kitchens requiring 30–40 linear feet of cabinetry versus 10ft for BTO kitchens. This difference alone adds S$8,000–S$12,000 to total project costs.

For complete 4-room makeover cost breakdown, read How Much for a Whole House Makeover in a HDB 4-Room Flat?

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Critical Component Costs: The Kitchen Advantage

Why Kitchen Renovation Dominates the Budget

Kitchens represent the single largest renovation investment in most HDB projects—typically accounting for 25–35% of total renovation budgets. Understanding kitchen pricing structures reveals where money flows.

For complete kitchen guidance, read Kitchen Renovation Packages Singapore and Singapore Kitchen Design Guide 2025 | BTO & HDB Experts.

RCS Kitchen Cabinet Pricing Structure:

Entry-Level BTO Kitchen Cabinet Package: S$5,590

The Kitchen Cabinet BTO Resale Package - Most Popular includes:

• Professional project management and site supervision

• Material selection consultation with 3D rendering

• 10ft kitchen bottom cabinet with soft-closing hinges

• 10ft kitchen top cabinet with premium laminate finish

• Quartz Tier 1 countertop installation

• Hood point electrical connection

• Complete internal white carcass with ABS door trimmings

• FREE 3 drawers with soft closing runner

• FREE frosted glass with laminate frame for dishrack door

• FREE 304 stainless steel 2-tier dishrack with tray

• FREE waterproofing board for sink area up to 3ft

• FREE upgrade to internal color carcass

• FREE hood and 2-burner hob from Rinnai

• FREE sink and sink tap

Complete Kitchen Renovation Package: S$11,290

The Kitchen BTO Resale Package - Most Popular (Overlay) provides comprehensive kitchen transformation including:

• All hacking works for existing cabinets

• Masonry works: floor tiles overlay up to 150sqft, wall tiles up to 250sqft

• Concrete base construction

• Complete carpentry with 10ft cabinets

• Quartz countertop installation

• Plumbing and electrical works

• Floor/wall protection during works

• Complete debris clearing and cleaning

For design trends and material guidance, explore Singapore Kitchen Cabinet Design Trends & Costs 2025.

Kitchen Customization Premiums

Standard industry pricing follows a per-linear-foot model:

• Standard Carpentry (Laminate, Soft-Close Hardware): S$100–110 per linear foot (bottom cabinets, S$105–110 per linear foot for drawer combinations)

• Top-Hung Cabinets (Extending to Ceiling): S$100+ per linear foot

• Tall Units & Pantry Cabinets: S$270 per linear foot (premium due to specialized construction)

Premium Hardware Impact: High-quality Blum or Hafele hardware adds 20–30% to base pricing. Premium finishes (acrylic panels, natural wood veneers) increase costs by 50–100% over standard laminate.

For estate-specific kitchen options, see Queenstown HDB Kitchen Packages: S$5,590–S$25,990.

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Bathroom Renovation Costs

Bathrooms rank second to kitchens in renovation complexity and investment. Modern bathroom specifications emphasize professional waterproofing—poor waterproofing creates cascading problems affecting multiple units.

For comprehensive bathroom guidance, read Toilet Renovation Singapore | HDB Packages from S$9,990 and Toilet Renovation from S$9,990 | Trusted HDB Contractor SG.

RCS Toilet Renovation Packages

Standard 2 Toilets BTO Package: S$9,990

Suitable for 3-room, 4-room & 5-room BTO flats:

• Floor & wall tiles overlay (250sqft per toilet)

• 2x Premium WC units with professional installation

• 2x Modern bidet sets + wash basins

• 2x Rainshower systems with mixer controls

• Storage water heater 15L installation

• Complete accessories package

• Professional debris removal & cleaning

• HDB permit applications handled

Premium 2 Toilets Package: S$10,390

Enhanced renovation with premium finishes:

• Designer tiles up to 300x600mm formats

• Branded sanitary ware

• Advanced thermostatic shower controls

• Premium basin designs with storage

• Storage water heater 20L (upgraded)

• Professional ceiling painting included

• Comprehensive 12-month warranty coverage

• Priority scheduling & support

• Complimentary S$300 design consultation

2 Toilets Hacking Package: S$11,290

The 2 Toilets BTO Resale Package - Most Popular (Hacking) provides complete demolition and retiling:

• Complete floor and wall tiles hacking

• Professional waterproofing membrane (K11 + 3-in-1 waterproof screed)

• New floor and wall tiles installation (250sqft per toilet)

• Drop kerb for shower areas

• All plumbing works and fixtures

• FREE WC x 2, bidet x 2, basin + mixer tap x 2

• FREE rainshower column with mixer x 2

• FREE storage heater tank 15L

For small bathroom guidance, see Small Bathroom Renovation: A Comprehensive Guide.

Bathroom Renovation Cost Summary Table

All packages include GST, materials, labor, permits, and cleanup. No hidden costs.

For older estate bathroom renovations, read Tiong Bahru Toilet Renovation 2026: From S$9,990 | HDB Guide.

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Flooring Investment: Tiles vs. Vinyl Analysis

Resale flat owners face a crucial flooring decision that dramatically affects budget: tiling versus vinyl overlay.

Overlay Method (Vinyl Over Existing Tiles):

• Per Square Foot Cost: S$4.30–S$4.80 (SPC vinyl: S$4.30–S$4.50; premium vinyl: S$4.80+)

• Advantages: Lower labor costs, faster installation, minimal disruption

• Disadvantages: Creates subtle height differences at doorways, requires door bottom cutting

• Typical 1,150 sqft Flat Cost: S$4,945–S$5,520

Hacking & Retiling Method:

• Per Square Foot Cost: Approximately S$7–10 (hacking labor + screeding + new tiles)

• Advantages: Eliminates height differences, professional finish, addresses hollow floor areas

• Disadvantages: Higher costs (+S$2,000), extended timeline, substantial demolition dust

• Typical 1,150 sqft Flat Cost: S$8,050–S$11,500

For estate-specific flooring guidance, Queenstown HDB Renovation Contractor 2025-2026 notes vinyl flooring costs S$2,500–S$3,500 per room.

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The Resale Versus BTO Cost Differential

Understanding the consistent cost gap between BTO and resale renovation illuminates where money actually flows.

For comprehensive resale guidance, read HDB Resale Renovation Guide: Pro Tips, Cost & Packages SG.

Systematic Cost Differences:

Real-World Impact: A S$40,000 BTO renovation would realistically cost S$55,000–S$65,000 if conducted on a 25-year-old resale flat.

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Regional Estate Considerations

Older Estates: Queenstown & Tiong Bahru

Older housing estates present unique challenges reflected in pricing adjustments.

Queenstown 2025–2026 Pricing:

Queenstown HDB Renovation Contractor 2025-2026 shows:

• Whole-house package 2025: S$37,490–S$44,190

• Projected 2026 pricing: S$39,384–S$47,234 (5–7% increase)

• Additional cost to delay: S$2,000–S$4,000

Tiong Bahru 2026 Considerations:

Tiong Bahru Old HDB Renovation Singapore 2026 addresses:

• Interior wall painting with primer and finish coats

• Custom carpentry including wardrobes and storage solutions

• HDB permit application handling for heritage buildings

New Town BTOs: Tengah & Mount Pleasant

For upcoming BTO projects:

Tengah Plantation BTO:
Tengah Plantation BTO: 2027 Completion Guide + Renovation covers:

• Built-in wardrobes for bedrooms

• TV console and feature wall design

• Shoe cabinet options

• Living room laminate or paint finishes

• Electrical planning for smart home features

Mount Pleasant BTO:
Mount Pleasant BTO 2025: Guide + Renovation Packages includes:

• Flooring installation (tiles or vinyl)

• Painting for entire flat

• Basic electrical and lighting

• Plumbing works

• HDB permit application support

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Budget Planning Framework: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Define Your Flat Type & Current Condition

Decision Matrix:

• New BTO? → Budget: S$25,000–S$65,000 (by size)

• 5–15 Year Old Resale? → Budget: S$40,000–S$80,000 (add 25–30% to BTO baseline)

• 15+ Year Old Resale? → Budget: S$50,000–S$110,000 (add infrastructure costs)

• 20+ Year Old Heritage Property? → Budget: S$60,000–S$120,000+ (significant infrastructure work)

Step 2: Establish Your Renovation Scope

Question Your Priorities:

1. Is infrastructure quality critical (electrical, plumbing, waterproofing)? → Add 30–50% to cosmetic budget

2. Do you prioritize kitchen customization? → Reserve 25–35% of total budget

3. How important are premium finishes? → Allocate additional 15–25% over standard specifications

4. Will you expand living areas (open concept, removing walls)? → Add 10–20% for structural work

Step 3: Apply Real Pricing from RCS Data

Use Verified Package Baselines:

• 3-Room Starting Point: S$14,290–S$25,000

• 4-Room Starting Point: S$23,990–S$35,000

• 5-Room Starting Point: S$17,490–S$45,000

Add Component Costs as Needed:

• Kitchen Enhancement: +S$5,000–S$15,000 (beyond basic package)

• Bathroom Upgrade: +S$2,000–S$6,000 (per bathroom)

• Flooring Upgrade: +S$1,000–S$4,000

• Carpentry Addition: +S$3,000–S$10,000 (wardrobes, feature walls)

Step 4: Incorporate Contingency Buffer

Reserve 10–20% contingency for unforeseen issues:

• Hidden plumbing deterioration

• Electrical system complications

• Structural concerns revealed during demolition

• Design modifications requested mid-project

• Market material cost adjustments

Contingency Calculation:

• S$40,000 project: S$4,000–S$8,000 buffer

• S$60,000 project: S$6,000–S$12,000 buffer

• S$80,000 project: S$8,000–S$16,000 buffer

Step 5: Lock in 2025 Pricing Before 2026 Increase

Market analysis demonstrates consistent 5–7% annual cost increases. Evidence from older estates indicates packages priced at S$37,490–S$44,190 in 2025 will increase by S$2,000–S$4,000 during 2026.

Urgency Factor: Locking in quotations now protects against projected mid-2026 price increases.

For fastest completion options, read Fastest HDB Renovation in Singapore: 25-40% Quicker.

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HDB Permit Requirements

Before starting any renovation, understand permit requirements thoroughly.

Essential Reading:

• HDB Renovation Permit in Singapore: Complete 2025

• HDB Renovation Guide 2025: Complete Rules, Permits & Budget Calculator

Key Requirements:

• Only contractors from HDB's Directory of Renovation Contractors (DRC) can submit permit applications

• Mandatory under Housing & Development (Renovation Control) Rules 2006

• Application processed within 3 weeks (simple applications: 3-7 days)

• Professional Engineer assessment required for structural changes

Permit Application Process:

1. Engage HDB-registered contractor

2. Prepare required documents (plans, acknowledgment forms)

3. Submit application via APEX electronic system

4. Track status through 'My HDBPage' using SingPass

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Package Options from RCS: Transparent Pricing

Comprehensive HDB Renovation Packages

View all packages at HDB Renovation Packages Singapore 2025 From S$5,590.

Full Price List Reference

For complete transparent pricing, see HDB Renovation Price List 2025: Real Costs Finally Revealed.

2026 Specific Packages

• HDB Renovation Packages & Price List Singapore 2026

• 3-Room HDB Renovation Package 2026

• 5-Room HDB Renovation Package 2026 Singapore

• HDB 4 Room Resale Renovation Singapore 2026

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Frequently Asked Questions

What's the most common HDB renovation budget in Singapore?

Mid-range renovation representing "balanced quality"—S$40,000–S$55,000—dominates the market. This tier delivers meaningful quality improvements without premium-tier expense. Most homeowners optimize this range for maximum value.

Should I choose BTO or resale flat for renovation?

BTO Advantages:

• Lower renovation costs (S$15,000–S$30,000 less than equivalent resale)

• Newer infrastructure requiring no replacement

• Faster renovation timeline

• Cleaner work environment

Resale Advantages:

• Established neighborhoods with proven amenities

• Broader location options

• Flexible move-in timing

From pure renovation budget perspective, BTO ownership offers significant financial advantage.

How do I prevent budget overruns?

1. Establish Fixed Scope: Document exactly what's included in writing

2. Require Change Order Process: Formal approval for any scope modifications

3. Allocate Contingency: Reserve 10–20% for unforeseen issues

4. Regular Progress Review: Weekly site meetings tracking budget expenditure

5. Weekly Cost Reporting: Detailed tracking of materials and labor

What's included in "transparent pricing"?

Reputable contractors specify exact deliverables:

• Materials (brands, specifications, quantities)

• Labor (task breakdown, estimated hours)

• Permits and approvals (HDB, BCA requirements)

• Warranties (coverage period, what's included)

• Project timeline (start date, estimated completion)

• Contingency buffer (percentage or amount reserved)

How long does HDB renovation take?

Add 2–4 week buffer for material delays, weather disruption, and regulatory approvals.

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Condo Renovation Options

For private property owners, RCS also provides condo renovation services:

Watertown Condo Renovation From S$18K offers comprehensive packages including complete kitchen renovation and dual bathroom overlay installation.

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Conclusion: Making Your 2026 Renovation Investment Count

HDB renovation budgets in 2026 span dramatically from modest S$14,290 cosmetic refreshes to comprehensive S$85,000+ transformations. However, within this spectrum lies profound clarity: real numbers beat vague assumptions.

Using Renovation Contractor Singapore's verified pricing as foundation—S$5,590 kitchen cabinet packages, S$9,990 toilet packages, S$14,290 complete 3-room renovations, S$45,000–S$50,000 5-room resale whole-house projects—homeowners can confidently plan, budget accurately, and execute successfully.

The most critical decisions revolve not around price minimization but value maximization: defining realistic scope, allocating contingency properly, selecting qualified professionals, and understanding infrastructure requirements for your specific property.

Your 2026 renovation decision ultimately determines your property's quality and your living comfort for years to come. Invest thoughtfully.

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Contact Renovation Contractor Singapore (RCS)

Website: renovationcontractorsingapore.com

Phone: +65 8784 8742

Credentials:

• HDB Certified Contractor

• BCA Licensed

• BizSafe 3 Certified

• 8+ Years Experience (Since 2017)

• 300+ Completed Projects

Services:

• Free consultation and quotation

• 3D design visualization

• HDB permit management

• Professional project management

• 12-month quality warranty

For transparent pricing, professional expertise, and proven reliability—contact RCS directly for your 2026 renovation needs.

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Internal Resource Links Summary

By Flat Type:

• 3-Room BTO Renovation Singapore 2025

• 3-Room HDB Renovation Guide 2025-2026

• 3-Room Resale Renovation Packages

• 4-Room BTO Renovation Package Singapore 2025

• 4-Room Resale Flat Renovation Cost 2025

• HDB 4-Room Renovation Ideas Singapore

• 4-Room Resale Packages

• 5-Room BTO Renovation Singapore 2025

• 5-Room BTO Renovation 2025-26: RCS Packages

• 5-Room HDB Renovation Package 2026

• 5-Room Resale Whole House Renovation Costs

By Component:

• Kitchen Renovation Packages Singapore

• HDB Kitchen Renovation Cost Guide 2025

• Singapore Kitchen Cabinet Design Trends 2025

• Singapore Kitchen Design Guide 2025

• Toilet Renovation Singapore from S$9,990

• Toilet Renovation Package Singapore

• Small Bathroom Renovation Guide

By Estate:

• Queenstown HDB Renovation 2025-2026

• Queenstown Kitchen Packages

• Tiong Bahru Old HDB Renovation 2026

• Tiong Bahru Toilet Renovation 2026

• Tengah Plantation BTO 2027 Guide

• Mount Pleasant BTO 2025 Guide

Guides & Resources:

• HDB Renovation Guide 2025: Rules & Permits

• HDB Renovation Permit Complete Guide 2025

• Top 12 HDB Licensed Contractors Singapore 2025

• HDB Renovation Packages Singapore 2025

• HDB Renovation Price List 2025

• HDB Resale Renovation Guide Singapore

• Fastest HDB Renovation Singapore

• 4-Room Whole House Makeover Costs

Product Packages:

• Kitchen Cabinet BTO Package S$5,590

• Kitchen BTO Package (Overlay) S$11,290

• 2 Toilets Package (Hacking) S$11,290

• 4-Room Whole House BTO Package S$23,990

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This comprehensive guide incorporates verified pricing data from Renovation Contractor Singapore (RCS). All figures represent actual offerings confirmed through official sources. Last updated: November 2025.