Question 1

How much does a BTO renovation cost?

Accepted Answer

Honest ranges by flat size: 3-room $25-40k, 4-room $35-55k, 5-room $45-70k, EA/Executive $55-85k. The spread depends on carpentry scope (wardrobes alone can be $4-8k), flooring choice (vinyl is cheapest, tiles mid, marble premium), and how much custom built-in you want. We quote line by line so you can pick what stays in.

Question 2

How long does it take from key collection to move-in?

Accepted Answer

Plan for 6-10 weeks total: 1-2 weeks design + permit, 4-7 weeks build, 1 week buffer. We can start as soon as your defects liability period is sorted (HDB requires that first). Many clients do design + permit during the defects period, then start build the day defects are closed.

Question 3

Do I need to apply for an HDB permit myself?

Accepted Answer

No — we handle it. As an HDB Licensed Contractor (HB-10-5499Z) we file the renovation permit on your behalf. Most BTOs don't need hacking permits (nothing to hack — the flat comes bare). What we do file: electrical works permit, water heater installation, and any built-in carpentry above 2.4m.

Question 4

What's NOT included in the renovation quote?

Accepted Answer

Furniture (sofa, beds, dining table), appliances (fridge, washer, oven, hob, hood, aircon units), curtains/blinds, light fittings beyond basic downlights (chandeliers, designer pendants you supply). We can recommend suppliers + co-ordinate delivery if useful, but those are separate purchases on your end.

Question 5

Can we phase the renovation — do some now, more later?

Accepted Answer

Yes, and it's smart for budget-tight first-timers. Common phasing: do kitchen + bathrooms + flooring + master bedroom first (essential to move in), then second bedroom + study + entertainment built-ins six months later when cashflow recovers. We design the full plan upfront so phase 2 slots in cleanly.

Question 6

How does the deposit and payment schedule work?

Accepted Answer

Standard: 10% on contract signing, 30% on commencement (when we order materials), 30% at mid-point (after electrical + plumbing rough-in passes), 25% at completion, 5% withheld for 30 days post-handover (released after you confirm no snags). All payments via bank transfer to our company account — no cash, full invoice for each milestone.

Question 7

Can we live in the flat while renovation is happening?

Accepted Answer

Strongly recommend no. BTO reno involves dust from drilling, heavy noise from carpentry install, and 2-3 days of zero water (when plumbing is being reworked). Most clients stay with family or rent short-term for the build phase. If you must visit, mornings or end-of-day are quietest.

Question 8

What if we want to use our own ID designer?

Accepted Answer

Totally fine. We work as the build contractor — your ID provides the drawings + material specs, we execute. We're transparent on costs so your ID can budget accurately. About 30% of our BTO clients come via an ID; the other 70% use our in-house design service.

Empty BTO to home-ready.

Honest ranges, not vapour quotes.

Eight things included.

Four phases. Sign-off at each.

Site visit + scope

Design + sign-off

Build phase

Handover

First-timer questions.

Keys collected? Let's plan it.