Whole House Renovation 101: How to Survive and Thrive
Changing Your Home: The Whole House Renovation Journey
A whole house renovation is a comprehensive project that transforms your entire home, often involving structural changes, system upgrades and complete interior redesign. Unlike partial remodels that focus on single rooms, a whole-home approach creates cohesive design and function throughout your living space.
What is a whole house renovation?
Complete change of an entire home
Typically costs $48,600 on average (range: $17,700-$79,400)
Takes 2-8 months to complete
Includes structural, electrical, plumbing and cosmetic updates
Can be done while living in the home or may require temporary relocation
When planned properly, a whole house renovation can breathe new life into an ageing property while preserving its character. Many homeowners choose whole-home renovations over building new because they love their location or unique architecture, while others view the project as an investment that can recoup 50-95 % of costs at resale.
I’m Brent Goschnick, Director of G&M Craftsman Cabinets. For more than 23 years I’ve guided Sunshine Coast families through successful renovations, delivering bespoke cabinetry built with premium hardware from Furnware Dorset, Silestone, Blum, Titus Plus, Kethy, Hettich and Häfele.
What Is a Whole House Renovation?
A whole house renovation goes far beyond a fresh coat of paint. It can be anything from an extensive interior update to a full gut renovation where we strip the building back to the studs. By treating the entire home as one project, we ensure every space feels connected, maximise construction efficiency and often achieve greater value than piecemeal updates.
A comprehensive renovation may include:
Removing or adding walls for modern layouts
Upgrading electrical, plumbing and HVAC systems
Improving insulation, windows and doors for energy efficiency
Re-flooring, repainting and installing bespoke cabinetry in every room
Key Benefits
• Space optimisation – Open-plan living, better storage and improved traffic flow.
• Energy efficiency – Upgraded insulation, windows and appliances can cut energy use by 30-40 %.
• Modern systems – New wiring and plumbing deliver safety and peace of mind.
• Liveability boost – Thoughtful lighting, temperature control and custom joinery improve day-to-day comfort.
• High ROI – Strategic upgrades such as kitchen joinery, garage doors and quality siding regularly return 60-102 % of their cost at resale.
Renovate or Build New?
Renovation is usually more economical when the existing structure is sound, preserves heritage charm that would be costly to recreate and can be simpler to approve under local council rules. It’s also kinder to the environment because we reuse much of the original building fabric.
2025 Costs, Budgeting & ROI
Across Australia, whole house renovation budgets in 2025 range from about $48 k for modest updates to $200 k+ for high-end overhauls (roughly $10-$150 / m²). Kitchens average $15-$40 k and bathrooms $7-$28 k because of their specialised fixtures.
Unexpected costs crop up—especially in older homes—so we always advise a 15 % contingency fund.
Financing Options
HELOC – Flexible borrowing against equity.
Home-equity loan – Lump sum with fixed rate.
Cash-out refinance – Replaces your mortgage with a larger one.
Construction loan – Converts to a standard mortgage when finished.
Government grants – Rebates for energy-efficient upgrades.
Smart Budgeting
Track every dollar in a spreadsheet and plan a realistic hardware allowance for premium components from Furnware Dorset, Blum and Häfele. For deeper financial guidance, see our detailed guide to residential renovations.
Step-by-Step Whole House Renovation Process
A successful renovation unfolds through clear, sequential stages:
Planning & Design – Define goals, budget and drawings (4-6 weeks).
Permits & Approvals – Secure council sign-off before work begins.
Demolition – Remove what no longer serves the design.
Structural Work – Modify or reinforce framing and foundations.
Services Rough-In – Electrical, plumbing and HVAC installed.
Insulation & Drywall – Close the walls and create a blank canvas.
Flooring & Painting – Establish the home’s visual foundations.
Cabinetry & Fixtures – Bespoke joinery, benchtops and fittings.
Appliances & Finishes – Lighting, handles, hardware and styling.
Final Inspections & Cleaning – Compliance checks and sparkling hand-over.
Most projects span 2-8 months, but careful scheduling keeps everything moving.
Our 6-Step Craftsmanship Pathway
At G&M, we live by “Quality Craftsmanship Throughout”. Find our full process here: https://www.gmcraftsmancabinets.com.au/our-process.
Budgeting & Consulting – We ensure plans are achievable and cost-effective.
Planning & Design – Our consultants match the right hardware and finishes—Furnware Dorset, Silestone, Blum, Titus Plus, Kethy, Hettich and Häfele—to your goals.
Manufacture – Hand-built in-house by experienced craftsmen.
Installation – Precise, respectful tradespeople finish each project to perfection.
Project Management – We coordinate all trades and keep you up-to-date.
Maintenance – From sticky drawers to accidental dents, we keep your joinery like new.
Room-by-Room Scheduling
We often start with the kitchen (the most complex space), follow with bathrooms and laundry to share trades, then finish bedrooms for a cosy retreat while other works continue. Exterior projects fit best in the dry season.
Working With Pros, Permits & DIY Decisions
Building the Right Team
Collect at least three quotes, check references from projects 1-2 years old, verify QBCC licences and ensure clear, written contracts with milestone payments. Communication styles matter—choose professionals who respond promptly and explain changes clearly.
Using Project Management Tech
Many builders employ software that lets you track progress and approve variations in one place—don’t be shy about requesting access.
Permits & Regulations in Queensland
Structural work, additions and major renovations need formal building approval. Licensed plumbers and electricians must lodge compliance notices, and heritage overlays bring extra conditions. Homes built before 1990 often contain asbestos; those before 1978 may have lead paint—professional testing and safe removal are mandatory.
Our decades on the Sunshine Coast mean we can anticipate council requirements and keep your renovation on schedule.
Saving Money, Avoiding Pitfalls & Maximising ROI
Hidden surprises (termites, rotten sub-floors, outdated wiring) are common, so keep that 15 % contingency handy. Order key materials early to dodge supply delays, and salvage original features—timber floors or decorative cornices—when they add character and save cash.
High-ROI Upgrades
• Kitchen cabinetry – Bespoke joinery built with premium hardware delivers everyday joy and strong resale appeal. See recent projects in our portfolio.
• Bathroom joinery – Well-designed storage turns functional rooms into luxurious retreats.
• Energy efficiency – Insulation, LED lighting and solar preparation cut bills and attract modern buyers.
• Curb appeal – A new garage door or refreshed entryway is a cost-effective value booster.
Money-Saving Hacks
Selective DIY demolition (non-structural), off-season scheduling for trades and buying ex-display appliances can trim thousands without compromising quality. If you’re self-managing, many suppliers will extend trade pricing to savvy owner-builders—especially when you specify trusted brands like Kethy, Hettich and Titus Plus.
Frequently Asked Questions about Whole House Renovations
How long does a typical whole house renovation take?
The timeline for a whole house renovation varies considerably based on your specific project. Most renovations take between 2 and 8 months from start to finish, though this window can shift based on several factors.
Your renovation's scope plays the biggest role in determining timeline—are you mostly updating surfaces, or are you moving walls and changing floor plans? Structural changes naturally extend the project timeline, as do unexpected findies that often happen once walls are opened up.
Weather can also impact your schedule, particularly for exterior work or projects requiring open walls. One Sunshine Coast family found their renovation extended by nearly three weeks due to an unusually rainy season delaying their roof work.
Permit approvals represent another variable that's somewhat outside your control. Heritage homes or properties in special overlay zones often face longer approval processes. We've seen heritage Queenslander renovations where the permitting phase alone took several months—patience is definitely required when working with older homes with historical significance.
Is it cheaper to renovate or build new?
This question comes up in nearly every initial consultation, and the honest answer is: it depends on your specific situation. Generally speaking, renovation tends to be more cost-effective when your home's structure is fundamentally sound.
By renovating, you're able to preserve the existing foundation, frame, and certain systems that would otherwise need complete replacement in a new build. This approach also eliminates significant demolition and disposal costs, which can add up quickly with a complete teardown.
The equation changes, however, when dealing with homes that have serious structural issues or layouts that simply don't work for modern living. In these cases, the cost of addressing major structural problems might approach or exceed the cost of starting fresh.
Location factors heavily into this decision too. If you love your neighbourhood and couldn't afford to buy in the same area today, renovation often makes more financial sense even if it costs a bit more upfront. As one of our Sunshine Coast clients put it, "We'd rather spend a bit more renovating our modest home in a neighbourhood we love than build new somewhere we don't want to live."
How do I live in my home during the works?
Living through a whole house renovation is challenging but entirely possible with thoughtful planning. Many of our clients successfully stay in their homes throughout most or all of their renovation process.
The key is strategic staging—completing one section of the home before moving to the next. This approach creates livable zones that allow you to maintain some normalcy amid the chaos. For instance, completing bedrooms and a bathroom first provides a comfortable retreat while the rest of the work continues.
Setting up a temporary kitchen is essential if you're staying put during a kitchen renovation. We've seen clever setups ranging from converted laundry rooms to outdoor cooking stations (weather permitting). The basics include a microwave, electric kettle, portable cooktop, and small refrigerator.
Dust containment becomes critically important when living onsite. Professional-grade plastic barriers with zipper doors can separate construction zones from living areas, while HEPA air purifiers help maintain air quality.
For particularly disruptive phases—like when plumbing is completely disconnected or during major demolition—consider a short holiday or staying with friends. These intense periods typically last only 2-4 weeks of the overall timeline.
One creative Sunshine Coast family converted their detached garage into a mini-apartment with a basic kitchenette and bathroom. This temporary solution allowed them to remain onsite throughout their six-month renovation while maintaining their sanity and family routines.
Living through a renovation requires flexibility and a good sense of humour. As one client wisely advised, "Set up your coffee maker first—everything else becomes more manageable with caffeine!"
Experience True Quality – Start Your Project Today
A whole house renovation is a significant undertaking, but the rewards of changing your existing house into your dream home are immeasurable. At G&M Craftsman Cabinets, we take pride in being part of this journey with our clients across the Sunshine Coast.
Our portfolio showcases the exceptional quality and attention to detail we bring to every project. From stunning kitchen changes to custom storage solutions throughout the home, our work speaks to our commitment to craftsmanship.
Take a moment to explore our project gallery and see how our bespoke cabinetry solutions have helped transform homes throughout Maroochydore, Noosa, Brisbane, Buderim, and beyond.
Once your beautiful renovation is complete, proper maintenance ensures it stays looking its best for years to come. Visit our care and maintenance guide for expert tips on preserving your investment.
With 100 years of combined experience and a passion for exceptional craftsmanship, G&M Craftsman Cabinets is ready to help you steer your whole house renovation with confidence. Our focus on honesty, transparency, and friendly service ensures your renovation journey is as smooth as possible.
Ready to transform your home? Contact us today for a consultation and find how our bespoke cabinetry solutions can lift your whole house renovation project.
Quality Craftsmanship Throughout – it's not just our promise, it's our passion.