Waiting for a contractor to give you a quote can feel like being in limbo. And when the quote arrives, is it fair? Is it inflated? The best defense is to know the numbers yourself. Yes, you can estimate your renovation costs with surprising accuracy, even if you’ve never held a drywall knife.
1. Cost Per Stage vs. Cost Per Square Meter
Estimates based on "Average Cost per Square Meter" are dangerous. They are too generic. A bathroom renovation costs way more per square meter than a living room because of plumbing and tiling.
The Solution: Breakdown by Stage.
Divide your project into: Demolition, Rough-in (Electrical/Plumbing), Walls/Ceiling, Flooring, and
Finishing. Assign specific costs to each bucket.
2. Counting Units, Not Guesses
Don't guess "maybe $2000 for tiles." Measure the area. Calculate precisely.
- Flooring/Tiles: Measure area + 10% waste. x Price per box.
- Painting: Wall area / Coverage per can. x Price per can.
- Outlets: Count them. x Price per unit (including installation if hiring out).
This "Unit Cost" method removes the emotion from budgeting. It's just math.
A granular breakdown exposes hidden costs before they become problems.
3. Avoiding "Quote Bias"
When you ask a contractor "How much?", they size you up. They look at your car, your neighborhood, and your desperation level. This is unconscious (or conscious) bias.
When you come to the table saying, "I have calculated 45 square meters of drywalling, and market rate is $X," you change the power dynamic. You are informed. You get better rates.
Conclusion
Knowledge is leverage. By estimating the costs yourself using digital tools and unit calculations, you protect your bank account and gain the respect of the professionals you hire.
