👉 “When should I start planning my renovation?”
Whether you’ve just received your BTO keys or are moving into a resale HDB flat, renovation timelines in 2025 are not something you can leave to the last minute.
With contractors’ schedules filling up fast and carpentry factories running at full capacity, understanding the right timeline is crucial.
At HDBGROUPRENO.SG PTE. LTD, we specialise in group renovation projects, helping homeowners save both time and money by coordinating schedules and carpentry production.
BTO vs Resale: Renovation Timeline Overview
| Stage | BTO Flat | Resale Flat |
|---|---|---|
| Planning & Design | 3–6 months before key collection | As soon as Option-to-Purchase (OTP) is signed |
| HDB Permit Approval | 2–3 weeks | 3–4 weeks (extra permits for hacking) |
| Renovation Works | 8–12 weeks | 12–16 weeks (longer due to hacking & repairs) |
| Move-In | 2–3 months after key collection | 4–6 months after completion of sale |
When to Start Planning Your Renovation
For BTO Owners
- 6 months before key collection: Shortlist contractors or IDs, set a realistic budget.
- 3 months before key collection: Confirm designs, apply for HDB permits, lock in carpentry production slot.
- Upon key collection: Renovation works can start immediately if contractor is ready.
For Resale Owners
- Right after signing OTP: Engage contractor for site measurement.
- Before resale completion: Finalise design, confirm hacking scope, apply for permits.
- After handover: Renovation starts immediately — usually longer than BTO due to dismantling old finishes.
Detailed Renovation Process & Timeline
1. Planning & Design (2–3 months)
- Budgeting, inspiration boards, site measurement (resale)
- Choosing styles: Japandi, Modern Luxury, Industrial, etc.
- Getting a 3D Virtual Tour (offered free by HDBGROUPRENO.SG)
2. HDB Permits (2–4 weeks)
- Required for hacking walls, re-tiling bathrooms, moving windows/doors.
- Faster for BTO (since no hacking), longer for resale flats.
3. Renovation Works
- Week 1–2: Hacking & masonry works (resale only)
- Week 3–4: Electrical & plumbing installations
- Week 5–7: Carpentry fabrication (kitchen, wardrobes)
- Week 8–10: Carpentry installation, painting, lighting
- Week 11–12: Final touch-ups & handover
🚀 With Group Reno, multiple flats share the same carpentry production batch, reducing waiting time.
Common Mistakes Homeowners Make
- Starting too late – Waiting until after key collection to look for a contractor = delayed move-in.
- No budget buffer – Unexpected works (rewiring, waterproofing) can add 10–15%.
- Ignoring HDB guidelines – Risk of fines or forced reinstatement.
- Over-customising – May hurt resale value in future.
2025 Renovation Trends in Singapore
- Japandi Minimalism: Clean lines, wood finishes, neutral tones.
- Smart Homes: Voice-controlled lights, aircon, and blinds.
- Eco-Friendly: E0 low-formaldehyde boards, water-saving fixtures.
- Compact Space Solutions: Storage beds, hidden wardrobes, foldable dining tables.
Financing Your Renovation
- HDB Renovation Loan: Up to S$30,000, 3.5–4.5% interest, 5 years max.
- Personal Loan: Higher limit, flexible terms.
- Group Reno Packages (HDBGROUPRENO.SG): Lower deposit, milestone payments, bulk savings.
Real Homeowner Stories
- Tampines BTO (4-room, 2025): Family started planning 6 months early, renovation completed in 10 weeks. Saved 18% through group package.
- Yishun Resale (25 years old): Couple engaged contractor at OTP stage, renovation took 14 weeks due to hacking. Saved 20% on carpentry via Group Reno.
FAQ
Q1: When should I book my contractor for a BTO renovation?
👉 At least 3–6 months before key collection.
Q2: How long does a resale renovation take in 2025?
👉 Around 12–16 weeks.
Q3: Can I hack bathroom tiles in a new BTO?
👉 No, HDB restricts hacking bathroom tiles for the first 3 years.
Q4: Why are group renovations faster?
👉 Carpentry is fabricated in bulk, saving production and logistics time.
Q5: Does HDBGROUPRENO handle both BTO & resale flats?
👉 Yes, with tailored packages for both categories.
Why Choose HDBGROUPRENO.SG PTE. LTD
- ✅ Group Savings: 10–20% cheaper via bulk orders
- ✅ Custom Carpentry: Kitchen, wardrobes, study desks, feature walls
- ✅ Free 3D Virtual Tours: Visualise before you commit
- ✅ 30+ Years Expertise: Trusted by thousands of Singapore homeowners
- ✅ Transparent Pricing: Milestone payments, no hidden costs
Don’t wait until it’s too late — plan your renovation timeline early.
👉 View Ongoing Group Reno Projects
👉 Get a Free 3D Virtual Tour + Quotation
With HDBGROUPRENO.SG PTE. LTD, your BTO or resale renovation will be on-time, affordable, and stress-free.
