Full home renovations are on the rise in Ontario, especially in urban centres like Toronto, Ottawa, Mississauga, and Hamilton. With rising property values and limited housing stock, more homeowners are choosing to upgrade their current homes rather than enter the competitive real estate market.
But what’s the real cost of a full home renovation in Ontario in 2025? The answer depends on multiple factors, including the size of your home, the scope of work, the materials you choose, and your location. This blog breaks it all down.
Why Consider a Full Home Renovation?
Renovating your entire home offers far more than just a refreshed look. In Ontario, where many older homes need upgrades to meet modern standards, full renovations deliver major value.
Here’s why homeowners across the province are taking the plunge:
- Modernize outdated spaces with current design trends, smart home tech, and energy-efficient systems.
- Increase resale value by appealing to today’s buyers in a competitive housing market.
- Improve layout and functionality for growing families, remote work, or changing lifestyles.
- Boost energy efficiency with better windows, insulation, HVAC, and appliances.
Beyond just convenience or style, these upgrades often translate into real financial benefits. For many Ontario homeowners, the cost of a full home renovation pays for itself through increased property equity and reduced utility bills over time.
Average Cost of Full Home Renovation in Ontario (2025)
Renovation costs are usually calculated per square foot. As of 2025, here’s a general breakdown:
Renovation Level | Cost per Sq. Ft (CAD) | Typical Home (2,000 sq. ft) |
---|---|---|
Basic Renovation | $100 – $200 | $200,000 – $400,000 |
Mid-Range Renovation | $200 – $300 | $400,000 – $600,000 |
High-End Renovation | $300 – $500+ | $600,000 – $1,000,000+ |
Note: Prices are higher in cities like Toronto due to labour demand and permit costs.
Explore our full house renovation services in Ontario to learn how we price projects based on scope and style.
Factors That Influence Renovation Cost
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to the cost of full home renovation in Ontario. Here are the top factors that affect your bottom line:
1. Size and Layout of Your Home
Larger homes naturally cost more to renovate. The bigger the square footage, the higher the labour and materials required. Also, if you’re moving toward an open-concept layout, expect more extensive structural work and more permits.
2. Age and Condition of the Property
Older homes may need hidden work like electrical rewiring, plumbing upgrades, or even foundation repair. Asbestos removal and outdated infrastructure can add thousands to your project.
3. Types of Rooms Being Renovated
Some rooms are simply more expensive to remodel than others:
- Kitchens and bathrooms are the priciest per square foot due to plumbing, cabinetry, tiling, and fixtures.
- Living rooms and bedrooms are more budget-friendly to upgrade.
Some rooms are simply more expensive to remodel than others:
4. Material Quality and Custom Features
The finishes you choose make a big difference. Premium hardwood flooring, quartz countertops, heated flooring, and custom cabinetry can quickly drive up costs. On the flip side, cost-effective materials can help keep things in check.
5. Labour and Professional Fees
Ontario requires licensed professionals for many home renovation jobs. Fees for architects, engineers, and designers should be factored into your budget. Labour can take up 30–40% of the total project cost.
6. Permit and Inspection Fees
Every municipality in Ontario has different building codes and permit requirements. Depending on the scale of your renovation, you might spend anywhere from $2,000 to over $10,000 just on permits. Need help navigating this? RM Renovation handles the entire permit process, saving you time and headaches.
Popular Renovation Services & Estimated Costs
Here’s a breakdown of typical renovation costs for different services across Ontario:
Renovation Type | Estimated Cost Range | Learn More Link |
Kitchen Renovation | $30,000 – $80,000 | Explore Kitchen Renovation Services |
Bathroom Makeover | $15,000 – $40,000 | See Our Bathroom Upgrades |
Basement Finishing | $40,000 – $100,000+ | Basement Renovation in Toronto |
Flooring & Tiling | $8 – $30 per sq. ft | Check Flooring Options |
Painting & Decorating | $5,000 – $20,000 | Browse Painting & Decorating Services |
Additional Costs to Consider
- Temporary accommodations if the home is unlivable
- Storage for furniture
- Contingency fund (always keep 10–20% extra)
- Appliance upgrades and furniture
These costs are often forgotten but can push your budget over the limit if unaccounted for. If you’re considering expanding your space instead, check out our guide on home additions to see if that’s a better fit.
How to Save on Full Home Renovation Costs
Renovations can be a major investment, but there are practical ways to keep costs under control without cutting corners.
- Bundle services (bathroom + kitchen + flooring) with one contractor
- Avoid mid-project design changes
- Use cost-efficient alternatives like luxury vinyl plank over hardwood
- Plan renovations during off-peak seasons (late fall/winter)
- Work with a trusted local contractor like RM Renovation, who offers transparent pricing and in-house design-build services
For property owners with unique needs, we also offer specialized services, including condominium renovations and commercial renovations in the GTA.
Looking for a trusted renovation contractor near you? We are a Top-Rated Home Renovation Contractor in Toronto serving the GTA for over 20 years with award-winning craftsmanship. Visit our profile and read customer reviews to see why homeowners choose us for their renovation projects.
Why Choose RM Renovation for Full Home Renovation in Ontario?
With over 20 years of experience serving homeowners across the GTA and Southern Ontario, RM Renovation has earned a reputation for quality, trust, and transparent service. We’re not just contractors, we’re full-service renovation partners.
Here’s what makes us different:
- Full design-build service: From the first sketch to the final walkthrough, our in-house team manages every detail of your renovation.
- Clear pricing and on-time delivery: No hidden fees. No vague timelines. Just honest quotes and a predictable process.
- Permit experts: Ontario’s building codes can be strict and confusing. We take care of zoning, inspections, and permits so you don’t have to.
- Personalized design consultations: Your style, your budget, your priorities, we listen first and build around you.
- Award-winning workmanship: Recognized by HomeStars and local industry leaders, our craftsmanship stands the test of time.
From living room upgrades to custom homes, we’ve transformed spaces of all sizes. We also serve specific neighborhoods throughout Toronto with dedicated services for flooring & tiling, painting & decorating, and bedroom renovations.
Conclusion: Is the Cost of Full Home Renovation Worth It?
If your home no longer meets your needs but you’re not ready to move, a full home renovation could be the smartest investment you make in 2025.
It increases value, improves quality of life, and allows you to stay in the neighbourhood you love, all while customizing your space to your taste.
Ready to get started? Contact us today for a detailed, transparent quote and personalized consultation.