HDB vs Condo Renovation Cost in Singapore: What Really Differs

The HDB vs condo renovation cost question has no single answer, because the two are priced differently and the work involved is different. HDB renovations are usually quoted by flat type and specification, while condo renovations are usually quoted per square foot. This guide shows how the numbers line up, what changes the bill, and the extra deposits and rules condo owners should plan for.

Figures are indicative ranges quoted by Singapore renovation guides in 2026. They are not quotes. Always get itemised quotes for your own home.

HDB vs condo renovation cost at a glance

How much does an HDB renovation cost?

HDB renovation budgets are usually quoted by flat type. At a standard specification, commonly quoted ranges are about S$30,000 to S$45,000 for a 3-room BTO, S$40,000 to S$55,000 for a 4-room and S$45,000 to S$67,000 for a 5-room. Resale flats tend to cost more because old floors, walls and bathrooms may need to be replaced. For the detail, see our HDB renovation cost guide and 4-room vs 5-room breakdown.

How much does a condo renovation cost?

Condo renovation is usually priced per square foot. Commonly quoted bands are:

• Cosmetic refresh (little hacking): from about S$40 per sq ft.
• Full renovation: about S$50 to S$120 per sq ft.
• High specification (stone, feature joinery, smart home): from about S$150 per sq ft.

So an 800 sq ft condo might land around S$40,000 to S$96,000 for a full renovation, before the extra costs below. Our condo renovation cost and rules guide covers the approval steps in more detail.

Why the two are not like for like

• Size. A 4-room HDB flat is often roughly 90 sq m (about 970 sq ft), while many condo units are smaller. A per-square-foot rate on a smaller unit can still add up to a similar total.
• Condition. A new-launch condo often arrives with floor finishes and fittings, so the work can be lighter. A resale condo or resale HDB flat can need much more.
• Specification. Condo owners often choose higher-specification finishes, which raises the rate per square foot.
• Layout work. HDB flats have structural walls and rules about what can be removed. Condos have their own limits, set by the building and management.

Extra costs and rules for condo owners

Condo renovations come with costs that HDB owners do not usually face:

• Renovation deposit. Many management corporations ask for a refundable deposit before works begin, returned if the common areas are left undamaged.
• Protection of common areas. You may need to protect lifts and corridors, and the contractor may bear the cost.
• Approval time. Submit drawings and contractor details early. See our condo renovation approval guide.
• Rules on hours, deliveries and noise. These are set by the condo and can affect your schedule.

Ask the management office for the renovation rules before you finalise your quote.

Costs both types of home share

Whatever you own, remember these:

• A buffer of about 10 to 15% for changes and surprises.
• Furniture, appliances and curtains, which are often outside the renovation quote.
• Renovation loans or financing, if you need them. See our guide to how renovation loans work.
• Hidden costs in older homes, covered in our resale HDB hidden costs guide.

So which costs more?

For similar size and specification, a condo often costs more per square foot because of higher-specification choices and extra approvals, while an HDB resale can cost a lot when walls, floors and bathrooms are redone. Compare by getting itemised quotes. Our renovation cost calculator gives a quick range for either type, and you can browse HDB designers or condo designers to request quotes.

Frequently asked questions

Is it cheaper to renovate an HDB or a condo?

It depends on size, condition and specification. An HDB BTO at standard specification is often cheaper in total, but a heavily renovated resale HDB flat can cost as much as a condo.

Why are condo renovations quoted per square foot?

Condo units vary widely in size and finish, so firms price by floor area. HDB renovations are more standardised by flat type, so they are usually quoted that way.

Do I pay a deposit to renovate a condo?

Many condo management corporations ask for a refundable renovation deposit and may charge other fees. Check the rules with the management office early.

How much buffer should I keep?

Many guides suggest 10 to 15% of the renovation budget for changes and surprises, and more for older homes.