Thinking about transforming your Melbourne home with a full renovation? Whether it’s updating outdated interiors or completely remodelling your property, understanding the house renovation price in Melbourne is the first step toward making smart financial decisions.
This detailed guide explains full renovation costs, how to plan your whole house renovation budget, and what to expect from the process — so you can get the home you love without financial surprises.
Why Renovate Your Melbourne Home?
Renovating your home is not just about improving aesthetics — it’s an investment in lifestyle, comfort, and property value.
Many Melbourne homeowners choose renovations to:
- Modernise old or worn-out interiors
- Improve energy efficiency
- Add space or functionality
- Boost resale value before selling
Whether you’re doing a complete makeover or a staged upgrade, understanding the pricing structure helps you budget confidently.
Average House Renovation Price in Melbourne
In 2025, the average house renovation price in Melbourne ranges between $90,000 and $300,000, depending on home size, design, and finishes.
Here’s a rough idea of what different levels of renovation might cost:
- Basic cosmetic upgrade: $30,000 – $80,000
- Mid-range full renovation: $100,000 – $200,000
- High-end or luxury renovation: $250,000 – $500,000+
Every property is unique — older homes, heritage buildings, and complex designs often require extra work that affects your renovation investment.
Main Factors That Influence House Renovation Costs
1. Size and Scope of Work
The total cost depends largely on how extensive the renovation is. A small single-storey renovation costs significantly less than a full double-storey makeover.
2. Structural vs Cosmetic Work
A cosmetic renovation (painting, flooring, fixtures) is more affordable than one involving structural changes such as removing walls, replacing roofs, or reconfiguring plumbing.
3. Material Choices
Tiles, cabinetry, flooring, and finishes vary greatly in price. For instance, timber flooring costs more than vinyl, and stone benchtops are pricier than laminate.
4. Labour and Builder Rates
Melbourne builder and contractor rates can range from $60 to $120 per hour depending on experience and project type. Choosing a reputable renovation company ensures quality workmanship.
5. Permits and Regulations
Large-scale renovations often require building or planning permits. Expect to spend $1,000–$3,000 depending on council requirements.
6. Age and Condition of the Property
Older homes often have hidden issues such as outdated wiring, asbestos, or plumbing problems — all of which can increase your complete makeover pricing.
Cost Breakdown by Renovation Area
While every project differs, here’s how various parts of the home contribute to your overall budget:
- Kitchen renovation: $20,000 – $50,000
- Bathroom renovation: $15,000 – $40,000
- Living area upgrade: $10,000 – $25,000
- Bedroom updates: $5,000 – $15,000 each
- Exterior & roofing: $20,000 – $60,000
- Electrical & plumbing upgrades: $10,000 – $30,000
When combined, these elements form your whole house renovation budget.
How to Plan Your House Renovation Budget
Planning is key to avoiding financial stress during renovations. Follow these steps:
- Define your goals: Decide whether your focus is comfort, resale value, or modernisation.
- Prioritise projects: List essential upgrades first, then optional ones.
- Get multiple quotes: Always compare detailed quotes from licensed Melbourne builders.
- Set aside contingency funds: Keep 10–15% extra for unexpected expenses.
- Track your spending: Use a renovation budget spreadsheet to stay organised.
A clear plan ensures your renovation investment delivers maximum value.
Benefits of a Complete Home Renovation
- Improved Functionality: Optimise layouts to suit modern living.
- Energy Efficiency: Upgrade insulation, lighting, and windows to reduce bills.
- Increased Property Value: A quality renovation can add 20–40% to your home’s market value.
- Modern Aesthetics: Give your home a fresh, contemporary look.
- Long-Term Savings: New materials and systems mean fewer maintenance issues later.
A professional builder can help you identify where to spend — and where to save.
Tips to Save on Renovation Costs
- Retain existing layouts: Avoid moving plumbing or major walls where possible.
- Use durable but affordable materials: For example, engineered stone instead of marble.
- DIY small projects: Painting or landscaping can save labour costs.
- Source fixtures yourself: Sometimes you can find deals from clearance or trade suppliers.
- Work with design-build teams: They manage design and construction together, reducing overhead costs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Starting without a detailed design or scope of work.
- Choosing the cheapest quote without checking builder reviews.
- Forgetting council approvals and permits.
- Ignoring long-term functionality in favour of short-term aesthetics.
Avoiding these errors helps ensure your renovation budget stays realistic and stress-free.
FAQs: House Renovation Price Melbourne
1. How much does it cost to renovate an average 3-bedroom house in Melbourne?
Expect costs between $120,000 and $200,000, depending on finishes and structural changes.
2. Is it cheaper to renovate or rebuild?
If the renovation cost exceeds 60–70% of the rebuild cost, rebuilding might be more cost-effective.
3. Do I need council approval for a renovation?
You’ll need permits for structural changes, extensions, or alterations to plumbing/electrical systems.
4. How long does a full home renovation take?
Typical timelines range from 3 to 9 months, depending on project size.
5. Can I live in my home during renovation?
For minor renovations, yes — but for major makeovers, temporary relocation is often safer and more comfortable.
Conclusion
A house renovation in Melbourne can completely transform your living experience and significantly boost property value. With careful planning, smart budgeting, and a trusted builder, your complete home makeover can stay within your whole house renovation budget while achieving stunning results.
Ready to start your renovation journey? Get in touch with a reliable Melbourne renovation expert today to receive a customised price estimate for your dream home transformation.
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