In Singapore, buying an HDB flat is a major milestone — but the renovation journey that follows can be just as significant.
For 2025, many homeowners are comparing BTO (Build-to-Order) vs Resale HDB renovation costs to decide which option offers better value.
This article provides a comprehensive, SEO-optimised guide to help you understand:
- Renovation cost differences between BTO and resale flats
- Typical renovation works required for each
- Renovation timelines & financing options
- Popular design trends in 2025
- Case studies from recent HDB projects
All insights are supported by HDBGROUPRENO.SG PTE. LTD, Singapore’s leading Group Renovation Contractor specialising in BTO and resale projects.
Cost Comparison: BTO vs Resale Renovation (2025)
Here’s a breakdown of average renovation costs in Singapore (2025):
| Flat Type | BTO Renovation Cost | Resale Renovation Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 3-Room | $25,000 – $50,000 | $40,000 – $70,000 |
| 4-Room | $30,000 – $65,000 | $50,000 – $85,000 |
| 5-Room | $40,000 – $80,000 | $60,000 – $120,000 |
🔑 Key Takeaway:
- BTO renovations are cheaper because they start from a “blank slate.”
- Resale renovations are costlier due to hacking, reinstatement, and repair works.
Why Resale Renovations Cost More
- Hacking & Removal Works
- Old tiles, cabinets, and flooring must be hacked before new works.
- Repairs & Upgrading
- Water leakage, ceiling cracks, or worn-out plumbing are common in older flats.
- Rewiring & Plumbing
- Many resale flats require a complete electrical upgrade and new piping.
- Redesigning Layouts
- Resale owners often change wall partitions to modernise the layout.
👉 On average, resale renovations cost 30–40% more than BTO renovations.
Renovation Timeline: BTO vs Resale
BTO Timeline (8–12 weeks)
- Week 1–2: Design, permit approval
- Week 3–4: Flooring, electrical, plumbing works
- Week 5–8: Carpentry fabrication (kitchen, wardrobes)
- Week 9–12: Installation, painting, final checks
Resale Timeline (12–16 weeks)
- Extra 4–6 weeks for hacking, repairs, rewiring
- Longer waiting time for approvals if structural changes are required
🚀 With HDBGROUPRENO.SG’s Group Renovation Model, timelines can be shortened since multiple units share the same carpentry production line.
Renovation Scope: BTO vs Resale
BTO Renovation Works
- Kitchen cabinets & countertops
- Built-in wardrobes & study desks
- Painting & flooring upgrades
- Electrical points & lighting fixtures
- Optional feature walls
Resale Renovation Works
- Hacking of old flooring & carpentry
- Retiling of bathrooms & kitchens
- Full electrical rewiring & plumbing
- Wall repairs & waterproofing
- New customised carpentry
Popular Renovation Styles in 2025
- Japandi Minimalist: Zen-inspired, warm wood tones, natural lighting
- Modern Scandinavian: Functional storage + airy spaces
- Luxury Modern: Marble tops, premium laminates, statement lighting
- Eco-Friendly Homes: E0 formaldehyde-free boards, water-saving fixtures
- Smart Homes: IoT lighting, automated blinds, smart appliances
👉 At HDBGROUPRENO.SG, every package includes a Free 3D Virtual Tour, so you can preview your flat in your chosen style before confirming.
Financing Options
- HDB Renovation Loan (via banks):
- Up to S$30,000 (or 6x monthly income)
- 3.5–4.5% interest, max 5 years
- Personal Loan:
- Higher borrowing limit
- Flexible repayment options
- Group Renovation Package (HDBGROUPRENO.SG):
- Lower upfront deposit
- Shared logistics & bulk carpentry savings
- Transparent milestone payments
Case Studies
Case Study 1: 4-Room BTO in Tengah (2025)
- Budget: $48,000
- Works: Kitchen cabinets, wardrobes, vinyl flooring, lighting
- Timeline: 10 weeks
- Result: Saved 15% through Group Reno
Case Study 2: 5-Room Resale in Yishun (25 years old)
- Budget: $78,000
- Works: Hacking old tiles, rewiring, carpentry, repainting
- Timeline: 15 weeks
- Result: Saved 20% via bulk carpentry order
Tips for Homeowners
- BTO owners: Prioritise essentials (kitchen, bathrooms, wardrobes) before décor.
- Resale owners: Budget at least 30% more for hacking & repairs.
- Always buffer 10–15% for unexpected costs.
- Join a Group Reno: Leverage bulk discounts and shared resources.
FAQ
Q1: Which is cheaper to renovate, BTO or resale?
A: BTO is cheaper. Resale needs hacking and repairs, which add 30–40% more.
Q2: How long does a resale renovation take?
A: Around 12–16 weeks, longer than BTO.
Q3: Can an HDB renovation loan cover resale hacking?
A: Yes, but capped at $30,000. Many owners use a mix of loans and savings.
Q4: Why are group renovations more affordable?
A: Shared logistics, bulk material orders, and efficient carpentry reduce cost.
Q5: Does HDBGROUPRENO.SG handle both BTO & resale?
A: Yes, with tailored packages for both.
Why Choose HDBGROUPRENO.SG PTE. LTD
✅ Group-Buy Savings: 10–20% lower cost than individual renovation
✅ Custom Carpentry: Kitchen, wardrobes, study desks, feature walls
✅ Free 3D Virtual Tour: See your home before committing
✅ Experienced Contractor: 30+ years in carpentry & renovation
✅ Transparent Pricing: Milestone-based payment, no hidden fees
Whether you’re moving into a brand-new BTO or upgrading a resale flat, renovation doesn’t have to be stressful or overpriced.
👉 View Our Ongoing Group Renovation Projects
👉 Get a Free 3D Virtual Tour + Quotation
Let HDBGROUPRENO.SG PTE. LTD transform your flat into a modern, functional, and stylish home at the best value in Singapore.
