Introduction
Thinking of giving your entire home a makeover? Whether it’s a decades-old property needing a modern update or a recently purchased fixer-upper, a whole home renovation in Burlington is an exciting yet major investment.
The question on every homeowner’s mind is: how much will it cost?
In this comprehensive guide, we break down the typical whole home renovation cost in Burlington, Ontario. We’ll explore pricing per square foot, what affects your budget, how contractors estimate jobs, and what kind of return on investment (ROI) you can expect. You’ll also learn how to navigate the renovation journey with transparency—and when to bring in a trusted professional like Saveska.
What Is Considered a Whole Home Renovation?
Before diving into costs, it’s important to define what a full home renovation involves.
A whole home renovation typically includes:
- Kitchen and bathroom remodels
- Flooring replacement
- Electrical and plumbing updates
- Wall removals or reconfiguration
- Painting and finishes
- Energy efficiency upgrades
- Sometimes, structural work or additions
This type of project transforms both the form and function of your home—inside and out—and requires careful planning, budgeting, and coordination.
Average Cost of a Whole Home Renovation in Burlington
In Burlington, a full home renovation generally costs between $100 to $300+ per square foot, depending on the level of finishes, materials used, and complexity of the work.
Here’s a basic breakdown:
| Renovation Quality | Cost per sq. ft. | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | $100–$150 | Cosmetic upgrades, standard finishes |
| Mid-Range | $150–$225 | Moderate upgrades, custom cabinetry, moderate reconfiguration |
| High-End | $225–$300+ | Premium materials, layout changes, luxury details |
So, for a 2,000 sq. ft. home, your whole home renovation may cost:
- Basic: $200,000
- Mid-range: $300,000–$400,000
- High-end: $450,000+
Keep in mind these are ballpark estimates. Every renovation is unique, and a formal contractor estimate will provide greater clarity.
Factors That Affect Renovation Costs
1. Size of the Home
Larger homes naturally cost more to renovate, especially when square footage increases across multiple levels or includes a finished basement.
2. Scope of Work
Are you just updating finishes or reconfiguring the entire floor plan? The more extensive the changes, the higher the cost.
3. Material Selections
From flooring to fixtures, materials can make or break your budget. Custom cabinetry, natural stone, and imported tiles all come at a premium compared to more budget-friendly options.
4. Labour & Contractor Experience
Hiring experienced professionals ensures quality but can also affect cost. A licensed, insured contractor with a track record of whole home remodels in Burlington may cost more—but saves you in stress, delays, and costly rework.
5. Timeline Requirements
Tight timelines require more trades on-site at once or even overtime hours, which can significantly raise your renovation budget.
6. Permit & Design Costs
Building permits, architectural drawings, and design consultation fees are often additional line items.
To see how all these elements come together, explore our recent home renovation projects for real examples and transformations.
Creating a Realistic Renovation Budget
Setting a clear renovation budget is essential for staying on track throughout the process. While the numbers may feel overwhelming, a transparent approach makes things manageable.
Here’s how to structure your budget:
- 70–80% for construction (labour + materials)
- 10–15% for design and permits
- 10–15% for contingency (unexpected repairs, product delays, etc.)
Example:
For a $250,000 renovation, you might allocate:
- $190,000 for construction
- $30,000 for design and approvals
- $30,000 for contingency buffer
It’s also wise to explore itemized pricing tools and curated finish packages. Saveska offers helpful planning through its online renovation shop to help clients visualise costs early on.
How Do Contractors Estimate a Whole Home Renovation?
A proper renovation estimate isn’t just a single number—it’s a process. Here’s how reputable contractors like Saveska approach it:
- Initial Consultation: Discuss your goals, timeline, and expectations.
- Site Assessment: Evaluate structural elements, utilities, and existing conditions.
- Scope of Work Drafted: Define what’s being updated, removed, or built.
- Itemised Quote: Materials, labour, timelines, and allowances are outlined.
- Fixed Price or Cost-Plus Contract: Depending on how flexible the project is.
This process ensures clarity and avoids surprise costs halfway through your remodel. If you’re in Burlington and curious about next steps, you can request a consultation through our whole home renovation page.
How Long Does a Whole Home Renovation Take?
Whole home renovations in Burlington typically take between 3 to 9 months, depending on the complexity and scope.
Common Timeline Milestones:
- Design & Permits: 1–2 months
- Demolition & Prep: 1–2 weeks
- Structural & Mechanical Work: 4–8 weeks
- Interior Finishing: 4–12 weeks
- Final Touches & Clean-up: 1–2 weeks
Delays can occur due to material backorders, permit approvals, or unexpected structural discoveries. This is where having a local expert team matters. Saveska’s project managers stay on top of the schedule, adjusting where necessary to meet agreed timelines without compromising quality.
What’s the ROI on a Whole Home Renovation?
Many homeowners ask whether the investment is worth it—and in most cases, the answer is yes.
On average, a well-executed whole home renovation can deliver 60% to 75% ROI at resale, depending on the market and quality of work. But more than resale, the real return is in lifestyle improvement—how the space functions, feels, and fits your needs.
Strategic upgrades like:
- Modern kitchens and bathrooms
- Energy-efficient windows or insulation
- Open-concept layouts
- Upgraded lighting and flooring
—tend to boost both market value and daily enjoyment.
For a better sense of what to expect, take a look at our full home renovation portfolio to see transformations and outcomes across different property types in Ontario.
Final Thoughts
A full home renovation isn’t just a construction project—it’s a transformation of how you live. Whether you’re updating a heritage home or modernising a dated layout, knowing your costs and planning accordingly ensures a smoother experience.
At Saveska, we bring craftsmanship, clarity, and commitment to every renovation we complete. Our goal is to make your home more functional, beautiful, and reflective of who you are. From initial consultation to project completion, we partner with you every step of the way.
Ready to explore your home’s full potential?
Visit our whole home renovation services to get started, browse our project portfolio, or check out planning resources in our renovation shop.
Let’s build your dream home—right here in Burlington.
