Collecting your BTO keys in 2025 is exciting — but what comes next is often overwhelming.
How do you plan your renovation? What should you prioritise? And how much will it cost?
This BTO Renovation Checklist (2025 Edition) is designed to guide Singapore homeowners through the entire process: from budgeting and applying for HDB permits to choosing the right design style.
At HDBGROUPRENO.SG PTE. LTD, we specialise in Group Renovation Projects that combine affordability, efficiency, and quality. Use this checklist to ensure your renovation is stress-free and on-budget.
Step 1: Budgeting Your Renovation
Average 2025 BTO Renovation Costs
| Flat Type | Essential Renovation | Mid-Range | Premium Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3-Room | $25,000 – $40,000 | $40,000 – $55,000 | $55,000 – $70,000 |
| 4-Room | $30,000 – $45,000 | $45,000 – $65,000 | $65,000 – $90,000 |
| 5-Room | $40,000 – $55,000 | $55,000 – $80,000 | $80,000 – $120,000 |
🔑 Tip: Always set aside 10–15% buffer for unexpected costs (e.g. rewiring, waterproofing).
👉 Group Renovation Packages with HDBGROUPRENO.SG help owners save 10–20% on carpentry and bulk works.
Step 2: HDB Renovation Permits
Works That Require Approval
- Hacking walls (non-structural only)
- Changing bathroom wall/floor tiles
- Moving main entrance door or windows
- Gas pipe relocation
Works That Don’t Require Approval
- Painting
- Installing wardrobes, kitchen cabinets
- Vinyl/laminate flooring on top of existing
⚠️ New BTO bathrooms have a 3-year no-hacking restriction. Always check with an HDB-approved contractor like HDBGROUPRENO.SG.
Step 3: Renovation Timeline
General Timeline for BTO Flats (2025)
- Planning & Design (2–3 months before keys)
- Budgeting, shortlisting contractors, 3D virtual tour
- Permits & Approvals (2–3 weeks)
- Submit applications, wait for HDB clearance
- Renovation Works (8–12 weeks)
- Week 1–2: Masonry, hacking (if any)
- Week 3–4: Electrical, plumbing
- Week 5–7: Carpentry fabrication
- Week 8–10: Installation, painting, fittings
👉 Group renovation projects streamline timelines by batch-producing carpentry.
Step 4: Design Checklist (2025 Trends)
Popular Styles in Singapore Homes
- Japandi Minimalism: Natural wood, neutral tones, calming aesthetics
- Scandinavian Modern: Bright, airy, functional storage
- Industrial Chic: Cement screed, exposed lights, black frames
- Modern Luxury: Marble, quartz countertops, gold accents
- Eco-Friendly Living: E0 boards, low-VOC paints, water-saving fixtures
- Smart Homes: IoT-controlled lights, automated blinds, energy-efficient appliances
📌 At HDBGROUPRENO.SG, every package includes a Free 3D Virtual Tour so you can preview these styles before committing.
Step 5: Must-Have Works for BTO Flats
✅ Kitchen Cabinets (top + bottom, quartz/laminate top)
✅ Wardrobes (master bedroom & common bedrooms)
✅ Bathroom vanity cabinets + shower screens
✅ Flooring (vinyl for cost, tiles for durability)
✅ Electrical upgrades (extra sockets, smart switches)
✅ Painting & feature walls
Step 6: Renovation Financing Options
- HDB Renovation Loan (via banks): Up to $30,000, ~3.5–4.5% interest, max 5 years
- Personal Loan: Higher limits, flexible repayment
- Group Reno Packages: Lower upfront deposit, milestone payments, bulk savings
Case Studies (2025 Projects)
Tengah 4-Room BTO – Budget $50,000
- Japandi style with vinyl flooring, quartz kitchen top
- Wardrobes for 3 rooms + TV console
- Completed in 10 weeks
✅ Saved 15% via Group Reno
Tampines 5-Room BTO – Budget $85,000
- Luxury Modern with marble kitchen island
- Walk-in wardrobe + smart lighting
- Completed in 13 weeks
✅ Group carpentry shaved 3 weeks off production timeline
Pro Tips for First-Time Homeowners
- ✅ Start planning 3–6 months before key collection
- ✅ Confirm contractor before HDB handover
- ✅ Always buffer 10–15% budget
- ✅ Don’t over-customise if you plan to resell
- ✅ Join Group Reno Projects for shared savings
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How much does a 4-room BTO renovation cost in 2025?
👉 Around S$45,000–65,000 for mid-range finishes.
Q2: When should I book my contractor?
👉 3–6 months before key collection.
Q3: Can I hack bathroom tiles in a new BTO?
👉 No. HDB imposes a 3-year no-hacking rule.
Q4: Why are group renovations cheaper?
👉 Shared logistics + bulk carpentry = 10–20% savings.
Q5: Does HDBGROUPRENO handle both BTO & resale?
👉 Yes, with customised packages for both.
Why Choose HDBGROUPRENO.SG PTE. LTD
- ✅ Group Savings: 10–20% cheaper via bulk orders
- ✅ Custom Carpentry: Kitchen cabinets, wardrobes, feature walls
- ✅ Free 3D Virtual Tours: Visualise before you commit
- ✅ 30+ Years Experience: Trusted in Singapore renovation industry
- ✅ Transparent Pricing: Milestone-based payments, no hidden costs
Don’t let your renovation journey become stressful. With a solid checklist and the right contractor, your dream home is within reach.
👉 View Ongoing Group Reno Projects
👉 Get a Free 3D Virtual Tour + Quotation
HDBGROUPRENO.SG PTE. LTD is your partner for affordable, stylish, and efficient renovations in Singapore.
