Gold Coast Renovation Costs 2025: Guide & Hidden Fees

Renovating your Gold Coast home in 2025 is an exciting project—but nailing down a realistic budget can be tricky.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the average Gold Coast home renovation price ranges for different types of projects, point out hidden renovation costs gold coast homeowners often overlook, and help you feel confident about how much you’ll need to set aside.

This information should serve as a starting point before diving deeper into quotes, designs, and your personal “must-haves.”

Why Renovation Costs on the Gold Coast Can Vary

Renovation costs aren’t one-size-fits-all—especially here on the Gold Coast, where homes range from beachside apartments to sprawling hinterland properties.

Factors like location, home age, materials, and scope of work all influence how much to renovate house gold coast.

For instance, homes closer to the coast might require specific weatherproofing, while heritage properties often need compliance checks and special materials.

Average Renovation Costs: An Overview

Basic Renovations

  • Painting, light landscaping, and cosmetic fixes usually cost between $15,000 – $40,000.
  • Ideal for homeowners looking to refresh a space without major structural changes.

Mid-Range Renovations

  • Ranging from $40,000 – $100,000, this category can include updating a few rooms, modernising fixtures, and possibly minor layout changes.
  • Think an updated kitchen or bathroom plus a few smaller projects, such as new flooring and upgraded lighting.

Major Renovations & Extensions

  • From $100,000 – $300,000+ and up, you’re looking at structural changes, multiple room overhauls, and high-end finishes.
  • For larger families looking to add extra rooms or completely gut and remodel, this is where things get more complex—and can be more costly.

The above figures are just ballpark estimates. Every project is different, and material costs and labour rates fluctuate over time. A detailed quote based on your specific requirements is always essential.

If you’d like a clearer idea of these ballpark ranges for your unique home, check out our Home Renovations page where we break down more detailed cost scenarios.

Specific Cost Breakdowns

Kitchen Renovation Costs

Kitchens are one of the most popular renovation projects for Gold Coast homeowners.

A simple facelift (new cabinets, countertops, and appliances) can start around $15,000 – $30,000, whereas a full luxury remodel with high-end fittings can soar well above $50,000.

Curious about the full range of options? Check out our Kitchen Renovations page for inspiration and more specific pricing.

Bathroom Renovation Costs

Bathrooms might be one of the smallest rooms in your home, but they can be among the most expensive to upgrade.

On the Gold Coast, basic bathroom renovations can cost around $10,000 – $20,000, while more upscale designs (think marble tiles or custom vanities) often reach $30,000+.

If you’re after a spa-like bathroom retreat, make sure to visit our Bathroom Renovations page to see what’s possible.

Structural Extensions & Layout Changes

Adding a new room or significantly altering your layout usually requires council approvals, structural engineering, and architectural designs—costs that can drive up the overall budget.

Expect these more substantial projects to begin at $100,000 and easily exceed $300,000 if you’re adding multiple rooms or floors.

Commercial & Investment Properties

Renovating an investment property or commercial space on the Gold Coast?

You’ll want to keep tenant and/or customer needs top of mind, as well as any commercial building codes.

Budgets can vary widely, often starting around $30,000 for small shop fit-outs and climbing into the six figures for larger scale projects.

If you’re exploring options for a business space or a property flip, our Commercial Renovations page is a great resource.

The “Hidden” Renovation Costs You Need to Know

Even the most carefully planned project can come with surprise expenses. Let’s look at the hidden renovation costs gold coast residents should be aware of:

Council Fees & Permits

  • Depending on the scope, you may need planning permits or building approvals. Budget anywhere from $1,000 – $5,000+.

Strata & Body Corporate Approvals

  • If you own an apartment or townhouse, you’ll likely need special permissions that can add time and fees.

Site Preparation & Demolition

  • Removing old materials or dealing with structural repairs often exceeds initial expectations.

Asbestos Removal

  • Older Gold Coast homes might contain asbestos. Removal and disposal fees vary, but it’s a regulated process that can be pricey.

Unexpected Water Damage & Mould

  • Coastal conditions can lead to hidden water damage or mould issues behind walls, requiring extra repair work.

Upgrades to Meet Current Codes

  • If your home’s electrical, plumbing, or insulation is out of date, you may be required to bring it up to current building codes.

Planning Your Renovation Budget (And Avoiding Surprises)

1. Use a Gold Coast Renovation Calculator

Looking for a quick ballpark figure? Check out our Gold Coast Renovation Calculator below.

It’s a convenient tool that can help you estimate your renovation cost based on project type, square footage, and design preferences.

While it’s not a substitute for a professional quote, it’s a great way to start mapping out potential expenses.

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2. Add a 10–20% Contingency

No matter how detailed your plan, unexpected costs can pop up. By building a contingency into your budget, you’ll have peace of mind when minor (or major) surprises arise.

3. Choose Quality Where It Counts

While it’s tempting to cut corners with cheaper materials, remember that Gold Coast’s coastal conditions can be harsh on a home. Invest in quality in areas like roofing, waterproofing, and structural integrity.

4. Work with a Professional Builder Who Understands the Area

A local builder with experience on the Gold Coast (like our team here at JL Coastal Projects!) can help you navigate local conditions, council requirements, and trusted suppliers—often saving you time and money in the long run.

Tailoring Your Project to Your Suburb

Whether you live in Broadbeach or Runaway Bay, each suburb has its own nuances in terms of property style, council requirements, and lifestyle priorities.

If you’re after suburb-specific information, be sure to visit our location services page and check out other local location pages for insights on renovating in your exact area.

Final Thoughts (And How We Can Help)

Renovating can be both thrilling and nerve-racking—especially when it comes to budgeting.

By understanding renovation costs gold coast trends, preparing for hidden renovation costs gold coast issues, and keeping your goals front and centre, you can enter the renovation process informed and ready to succeed.

At JL Coastal Projects, we’re all about putting you first. From concept to completion, our job is to make your vision come to life without the stress of second-guessing “what ifs.”

Ready to kick off your 2025 renovation journey?

Feel free to reach out for a personalised consultation or to learn more about our Home Renovations, Kitchen Renovations, or Bathroom Renovations services. Let’s bring your envisioned Gold Coast home to life.

Final Thoughts (And How We Can Help)

How much does a typical home renovation cost on the Gold Coast in 2025?

Projects can range from a simple cosmetic update around $15,000 to major structural renovations exceeding $300,000. Your exact cost will depend on scope, materials, and labour.

Common hidden expenses include council approvals, dealing with asbestos, and upgrading old utilities to current codes. A 10–20% contingency in your budget is wise.

Even small renovations can quickly become complex. A local, experienced builder helps ensure compliance, quality, and a stress-free process.

Absolutely. Many homeowners tackle the most urgent or highest-impact areas first—like the kitchen or bathroom—then move on to other spaces later.

We hope this comprehensive Gold Coast home renovation price guide sheds light on budgeting in 2025.

By combining transparent cost discussions, local expertise, and a genuine focus on user-friendly guidance, we aim to empower you to make the best decisions for your home and lifestyle.

When you’re ready to plan your next step, JL Coastal Projects is here to help from start to finish. Let’s build something beautiful—right here on the Gold Coast.