5 things about renovation packages that homeowners should know

Embarking on a home renovation journey can evoke a mix of excitement and stress for homeowners. Evaluating expenses and establishing a budget can be particularly overwhelming. Renovation projects frequently exceed initial cost estimates, leaving consumers needing help with unforeseen expenses. 

To alleviate this uncertainty, there are numerous social media posts and advertisements showcasing renovation packages at enticingly low prices. The allure is clear – not only are these services budget-friendly, but they also offer comprehensive solutions, mitigating the stress for those daunted by the renovation journey.


However, despite their appeal and convenience, are renovation packages the optimal choice for individuals aspiring to achieve their dream homes? Peruse this guide to decide whether a renovation package genuinely aligns with your desires and necessities.


What are Renovation Packages?

Renovation packages are pre-arranged bundles of services offered by interior design or home improvement firms at discounted rates. These packages can encompass various aspects of home improvement, ranging from specific areas like kitchens to comprehensive home makeovers, covering design, planning and execution.


The specifics of each package, including scope and pricing, vary depending on the firm and the project.


Examples of Renovation Packages -

A. Whole House Renovation:

A comprehensive package that encompasses renovations for the entire house. It may include services such as structural changes, flooring replacement throughout the house, kitchen and bathroom renovations, painting, electrical and plumbing works, and any other necessary upgrades or repairs.


B. Kitchen Renovation:

A package that includes services such as demolition of existing fixtures, installation of new cabinets and countertops, plumbing and electrical work for kitchen appliances, flooring replacement, and painting.


C. Bathroom Renovation:

A package that usually covers the renovation of one or more bathrooms in a home. It can include services such as removing old fixtures, installing new sinks, toilets, showers, or bathtubs, tile work for walls and floors, plumbing and electrical updates, and painting ceilings.


D. Interior Design Renovation:

A package focusing on interior design services along with renovations. It may include consultation with a professional interior designer, space planning, selection of furniture, fixtures and finishes, colour schemes, lighting design and coordination of the renovation process to align with the desired design aesthetic.


Pros of Renovation Packages




1. Cost-effectiveness:

It proves to be a viable choice for homeowners constrained by strict budgets as the prices of renovation packages are trimmed down to maintain competitiveness. Thus the profit margins associated with such packages are also minimal for interior designers.


In contrast to standard quotations, where costs are itemised and quoted separately, the overall expense of a renovation package tends to be more economical.


2. Convenience and Peace of Mind: 

Firms streamline the renovation process, saving time, minimising errors and ensuring quality work as a single firm oversees the entire project. Many of these firms also offer craftsmanship guarantees, providing peace of mind to homeowners.


3. Discounted Offers: 

Renovation packages may include discounts or special deals on materials and services, further enhancing their cost-effectiveness.


Cons of Renovation Packages

1. Unforeseen Escalation in Price: 

While some renovation package primarily caters to those with stringent budgetary limitations, it's common for homeowners to exceed the initially quoted price.


This often stems from factors like the actual length of carpentry being very different from the predetermined amount, where homeowners realise they require more than initially estimated.


2. Hidden Costs: 

Renovation packages typically encompass a variety of services bundled at a fixed price. However, does this comprehensive coverage extend to every aspect of your renovation, or are there additional tasks that require attention?


Depending on the package's inclusions and exclusions, you might find yourself faced with charges for essential yet overlooked tasks not encompassed in the 'base' package (such as electrical works, conveniently omitted earlier). Stay vigilant for these concealed expenses.





3. Lack of Customisation: 

There is less room for uniqueness in terms of individual lifestyle needs as values such as personalised design and customer contentment are often compromised with generic renovation packages lacking personalisation to match the homeowner's specific requirements.


Moreover, the limited scope of renovation packages often necessitates top-ups for desired features outside the package. In such cases, opting for a standard quotation provides greater flexibility for customisation.


4. Lack of Transparency:

Conventional quotations offer clearer insights into every detail, from material selection to carpentry specifications, and are meticulously itemised for homeowners' scrutiny. 


In contrast, renovation packages tend to obscure certain details. For instance, some packages bury material options in the fine print, potentially leading to unexpected additional charges if the chosen material isn't covered.


Are Renovation Packages Worth it?

Advice for Prospective Homeowners

Before embarking on a renovation project, homeowners should consider various factors, including the project's purpose, the home's size and value, the total project cost, the chosen firm's reputation and capabilities, permit requirements, weather conditions and adjustments to daily routines.

Many homeowners mistakenly believe that a renovation package covers everything and demands minimal involvement from them. However, it's essential to investigate the market rates for various services to determine whether the package offers better value than a standard quotation. 


To avoid unexpected additional expenses, scrutinise the package details before committing. Ensure that the inclusions, such as material selections and carpentry specifications, align with your preferences. 

Renovation costs can vary widely depending on factors such as the size of the house, the complexity of the renovation, the quality of materials used and the firm's experience. Here's a rough baseline of how much common renovation projects might cost in Singapore:

• Kitchen Renovation: SGD 15,000 - SGD 30,000
• Bathroom Renovation: SGD 10,000 - SGD 20,000
• Whole House Renovation: SGD 50,000 - SGD 100,000
• Painting Works: SGD 1,000 - SGD 5,000+
• Electrical and Plumbing Works: SGD 4,000 - SGD 15,000+
• Carpentry Works:
• Built-in Wardrobes: SGD 2,000 - SGD 10,000+
• Kitchen Cabinets: SGD 3,000 - SGD 20,000+
• Customised Carpentry: SGD 500 - SGD 5,000+ per piece

Some renovation packages may prioritise cost-effectiveness over quality, resulting in lower-quality materials or workmanship. Homeowners should carefully review the reputation and credentials of the firm offering the package to ensure that quality standards are met.


Ultimately, the decision of whether you should opt for a renovation package or not hinges on your personal preferences. A renovation entails a significant investment and maximising its potential is crucial. If you're considering a renovation package, thorough research is imperative to determine if it adequately meets your requirements. If you value crafting a home that perfectly suits your lifestyle and needs, you might prefer consulting with a professional interior designer.