Your HDB BTO renovation is a crucial and life-changing endeavour. While it's exciting to splurge on this once-in-lifetime experience, you don't want to go too far and spend a fortune on things that may not even be worth your investment. This means not splurging on an oh-so-expensive armchair that can cost you weeks' worth of meals.
Ultimately, a good-looking home should not take away your budget for food and other essentials. It should also NOT lead you to so many loans. This is where proper budgeting comes to play.
Here are some tips to achieve a successful home renovation without busting your budget.
Practical HDB BTO Renovation Budgeting Tips
Before Anything Else, Plan
When it comes to renovating your HDB BTO flat in Singapore, proper planning is crucial. From interior design to renovation goals and furniture choices, having a clear vision can help you make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary expenses.
Set a Realistic Renovation Budget
A general guideline is to keep your renovation costs less than six times your monthly household income. This helps ensure that your renovations are financially sustainable and don't put undue strain on your finances.
Determine how much you can comfortably spend and allocate funds accordingly. Remember that unexpected costs may arise, so it's wise to set aside a contingency fund.
You Don't Need to Renovate the Whole House at Once
Renovating your entire space in one go can be overwhelming and costly. Instead of planning for a massive HDB or BTO renovation, focus on renovating one area or room at a time.
Prioritise Key Areas
Your home isn't going anywhere, so you don't have to rush. If you have a limited budget, prioritise renovating the key areas that impact your HDB space the most. Focus on upgrading the living room, kitchen, and bathroom since these contribute the most to the aesthetic appeal and practicality of your flat.
We recommend starting with your kitchen renovation, especially if you are a home chef who cooks and entertains a lot. While the living room is a focal point showcasing your unique style, kitchen renovations can significantly alter your daily convenience.
Make Big-Ticket Purchases Separately
If you're eyeing expensive furniture or appliances for your flat, consider making these purchases in stages. Start with essential items and gradually add the larger pieces over time.
Swap Built-Ins with Freestanding Furniture
While built-in furniture can provide a seamless and custom look, it often comes with a higher price tag. If you're planning to save more while making your home more flexible and timeless, opt for more affordable freestanding furniture with multifunctional purposes and classic designs.
Look for Furniture and Appliance Sales
Keep an eye out for promotions, discounts, and clearance sales when shopping for furniture and appliances. Furniture stores in Singapore offer regular deals and special offers, so take advantage of them to snag great bargains without compromising on quality.
Save on Deep Cleaning Services
After the renovation process, your HDB space may require a thorough cleaning. Instead of hiring professional deep cleaning services, consider doing it yourself or asking for the help of friends and family. With some elbow grease and the right cleaning products, you can achieve a fresh and sparkling home without incurring additional costs. Plus, it can be a fun activity to bond with your loved ones!
Don't Engage with "Under the Table" Contractors
While hiring contractors who offer significantly lower prices may be tempting, it's essential to exercise caution. Engaging "under the table" contractors can lead to various risks, including poor quality, lack of legal protection, and potential legal consequences. Choose reputable HDB licensed contractors, as they provide quality work and adhere to industry standards.
Check Previous Resale Flat Works that You Can Retain
If you're renovating a resale HDB flat, assess the existing renovations done by the previous owners. Determine if these works are still in good condition and align with your design preferences.
Opt for a Renovation Loan
If you require financial assistance for your renovation, consider opting for a renovation loan. These are specifically tailored for home renovations and often have lower interest rates than other loans. However, be mindful of your monthly loan repayments and ensure they do not exceed 40 percent of your monthly income.
Increase Efficiency, Not Size
We understand the challenges of working with space constraints in households in Singapore. However, instead of focusing solely on expanding your HDB space, we highly recommend optimising its efficiency. Innovative storage solutions, space-saving furniture, and smart layouts can help maximise your available space without costly extensions.
Skip Trends and Go Timeless
It's often tempting to follow the latest trends. However, a practical approach to saving more on your renovation and ensuring that your theme stays relevant is to skip trends and opt for an interior design that will stand the test of time.
Think Long-Term Investment, Not Short-Term Gains
When planning your renovation, take into account the long-term costs associated with your design choices. Opt for energy-efficient appliances, sustainable materials, and low-maintenance features that can help reduce utility bills and minimise the need for frequent repairs or replacements.
Thinking ahead and considering the long-term implications of your renovations can save you money in the future.
Is it Practical to Hire an Interior Designer in Singapore?
Yes, hiring an interior designer in Singapore can be a practical and beneficial decision for many homeowners. While it is possible to tackle a renovation project on your own, especially if you have a clear vision and the necessary skills, an interior designer brings valuable expertise and experience to the table.
Save Thousands on Your Home Renovation
With smart decision-making and a focus on cost-effective solutions, you can achieve a beautiful and personalised home without breaking the bank.
Discover affordable luxury for your home at Megafurniture. Explore our wide range of high-quality furniture, appliances, and home decorations in Singapore. Visit our website or showroom today to find the perfect pieces for your budget!