One of the most common questions Singapore homeowners face is: “Should I renovate a brand-new BTO or buy and renovate a resale HDB?”
Both options come with different costs, timelines, and challenges. In 2025, with construction costs on the rise, it’s important to understand the real differences between BTO and resale renovations before making a decision.
This guide by HDBGROUPRENO.SG PTE. LTD breaks down renovation costs, timelines, loan options, pros & cons, and expert tips for both BTO and resale HDBs.
Cost Comparison: BTO vs Resale Renovation in 2025
Here’s an overview 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 |
Why are resale renovations more expensive?
- Hacking & Dismantling: Resale flats usually require hacking of old flooring, tiles, and carpentry before new works begin.
- Upgrading Electrical & Plumbing: Older flats often need complete rewiring and pipe replacement.
- Repainting & Repairs: Additional costs for fixing wear-and-tear issues like cracks, waterproofing, and ceiling leaks.
👉 On average, resale renovations cost 30–40% more than BTO renovations due to hacking and reinstatement works.
Renovation Scope: BTO vs Resale
Typical BTO Renovation Works
- Kitchen cabinets and countertops
- Wardrobes and storage systems
- Painting & lighting installation
- Vinyl or tile flooring (if not provided by HDB)
- Optional feature walls and décor
Typical Resale Renovation Works
- Hacking of old flooring, tiles, and built-in carpentry
- Re-tiling of bathrooms and kitchens
- Repainting entire flat
- Full electrical rewiring and plumbing upgrades
- New carpentry (wardrobes, cabinets, TV console)
Renovation Timeline: Which Takes Longer?
- BTO Renovation Timeline (8–12 weeks)
- No hacking required (unless you want to reconfigure layout).
- Works focus on carpentry, flooring, painting, and lighting.
- Resale Renovation Timeline (12–16 weeks)
- Extra time needed for hacking, waterproofing, and rewiring.
- Some projects extend to 4 months for older flats.
👉 With HDBGROUPRENO.SG Group Reno Projects, even resale renovations can be streamlined with shared logistics and bulk carpentry production.
Financing Options: BTO vs Resale
Both BTO and resale flat owners can use renovation loans:
- HDB Renovation Loan (via banks): Up to S$30,000, max 5 years repayment, ~3.5–4.5% interest.
- Personal Loan: Higher limit, flexible terms, slightly higher interest.
- Group Renovation Package (HDBGROUPRENO.SG): Lower upfront deposit, shared savings, milestone payments.
2025 Renovation Trends
Whether for BTO or resale, these styles are trending in Singapore:
- Japandi Style: A mix of Japanese minimalism & Scandinavian warmth.
- Modern Luxury: Marble countertops, gold accents, cove lighting.
- Eco-Friendly Homes: Low-VOC paint, water-saving fixtures, E0 boards.
- Smart Homes: Automated lighting, voice-controlled appliances, energy-saving systems.
Pros & Cons: BTO vs Resale Renovation
| Aspect | BTO Renovation | Resale Renovation |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Lower (no hacking needed) | Higher (hacking, repairs required) |
| Timeline | Faster (8–12 weeks) | Longer (12–16 weeks) |
| Flexibility | Easier to customise from scratch | Limited by existing layout |
| Condition | Brand new, clean | May require major repairs |
| Resale Value | High for new developments | Depends on flat age & location |
Case Studies (2025 Projects)
4-Room BTO in Tengah
- Cost: $48,000
- Works: Kitchen carpentry, wardrobes, vinyl flooring, painting, lighting
- Timeline: 10 weeks
- Group renovation discount saved ~15% for owners
4-Room Resale in Yishun (25 years old)
- Cost: $72,000
- Works: Hacking old tiles, retiling bathrooms, full electrical rewiring, new carpentry
- Timeline: 14 weeks
- Group project reduced cost by ~20% on carpentry materials
Renovation Tips for Homeowners
- BTO Owners: Focus on essentials (kitchen, wardrobes, bathrooms). Add décor later.
- Resale Owners: Budget at least 30% more for hacking & repairs.
- Plan Early: Engage a contractor before key collection.
- Set a Realistic Budget: Always add 10–15% buffer.
- Join Group Reno: Save more through bulk orders and shared resources.
FAQ
Q1: Which is cheaper to renovate, BTO or resale?
A: BTO, because resale requires hacking & repairs.
Q2: How long does a resale flat renovation take?
A: Around 12–16 weeks, depending on condition.
Q3: Can a renovation loan cover resale hacking?
A: Yes, but capped at S$30,000. You may need extra financing.
Q4: Why is group renovation better?
A: Shared logistics, bulk discounts, and shorter timelines.
Q5: Does HDBGROUPRENO.SG cover both BTO & resale projects?
A: Yes – with customised carpentry and group-buy cost savings.
Why Choose HDBGROUPRENO.SG PTE. LTD
✅ Affordable Packages: Save 10–20% through group-buy renovation
✅ Custom Carpentry: Kitchen, wardrobes, space-saving designs
✅ Free 3D Virtual Tours: Visualise before you commit
✅ Trusted Contractor: 30+ years of carpentry & renovation experience
✅ Transparent Pricing: Milestone payments, no hidden costs
Whether you’re moving into a brand-new BTO or a resale flat, renovation doesn’t have to be stressful or overpriced.
👉 View Ongoing Group Reno Projects
👉 Get a Free 3D Virtual Tour + Quotation
Transform your HDB into a stylish, functional home with HDBGROUPRENO.SG PTE. LTD – Singapore’s trusted Group Renovation Specialist.
