Melbourne House Renovation: Navigating Costs and Trends for 2025
The Future of House Building and Melbourne House Renovation Costs in Australia: What You Need to Know for the Next 1-2 Years
As we roll into 2025, the world of house building and renovation in Australia is undergoing some significant shifts. From rising construction costs to the push for more sustainable homes, it’s clear that things are changing fast. If you’re thinking about renovating or building a new home in the next couple of years, it’s essential to understand what trends are shaping the market—and whether now’s the right time to take on a big project.
1. What’s Happening with House Building Costs in the Next Few Years?
House building costs will keep rising in the next 1-2 years due to ongoing material price hikes. Supply chain issues may keep timber and steel costs unpredictable. Plus, there’s the ongoing issue of labour shortages. According to Master Builders Australia, the construction industry is desperately short of skilled workers, which makes it harder and more expensive to get things done. They’ve even said we’ll need an extra 130,000 workers to meet Australia’s housing targets in the coming years—so don’t expect costs to ease up anytime soon.
On the positive side, there’s a growing shift towards sustainable construction. The push for “green homes” that use energy-efficient materials like hempcrete and mycelium insulation is gaining traction. These materials might come with a higher initial cost, but they can save you money in the long run by reducing energy consumption. With more homes being built with the environment in mind, the green housing boom is helping to future-proof new builds and renovations.
2. Should You Renovate One Area at a Time or All at Once?
One of the biggest decisions when it comes to home renovations is whether to tackle everything at once or go room by room. With prices on the rise, it’s a good idea to think carefully about which option is best for your situation.
Renovating One Area at a Time
For many people, taking it slow and renovating one area at a time makes sense. This way, you can spread the costs over a longer period and avoid the financial stress of paying for everything upfront. Whether it’s starting with the kitchen, bathroom, or outdoor space, breaking your renovation into phases can help you keep things more manageable. Plus, it gives you a chance to see how the first part of your reno turns out before committing to the next stage.
The downside of this approach is that renovations can drag on for a while. You’ll have to manage the logistics of getting contractors in for each phase, and if you’re living in the house during the process, it can be disruptive. Also, each phase might require new permits and approvals, which could add extra costs and paperwork.
Renovating All at Once
On the other hand, doing everything at once has its perks, especially when it comes to saving money. If you’re tackling multiple areas of the house, you might get better deals on materials and labour because you’re bundling the work together. Contractors may offer discounts for larger projects, and you’ll only have to go through the hassle of organising everything once. If you’re planning on living in the home during renovations, this can also mean less disruption in the long run, as all the work gets done in one go.
But let’s be real—renovating your entire house at once isn’t for everyone. The upfront costs can be pretty hefty, especially when building materials and labour are at an all-time high. And if you’re planning to live in the home while renovations are happening, be prepared for a lot of noise, dust, and disruptions to your daily routine. It’s a big commitment, both financially and emotionally.
3. What Melbourne House Renovation Trends Are Australians Favouring in 2025?
The way Aussies are approaching Melbourne House Renovation is changing, too. In 2025, homeowners are looking for more than just a fresh coat of paint. They’re after flexible, multifunctional spaces that can adapt to their needs.
One big trend is the rise of open-plan living, with kitchens, dining areas, and lounges blending together to create a spacious, communal vibe. As hybrid working becomes the norm, more people are also adding dedicated home offices or flexible spaces that can easily be turned into a study, gym, or kids’ playroom.
Another trend to watch is the shift towards warm minimalism. Gone are the cold, sterile minimalistic designs of the past. People are opting for spaces that are simple yet warm and inviting, with natural materials and earthy tones creating a cozy atmosphere.
And let’s not forget about outdoor spaces. Patios and backyards are becoming an extension of the home, with stylish furniture, outdoor kitchens, and beautiful landscaping turning these areas into year-round living spaces.
4. What’s the Bottom Line? Should You Renovate Now or Wait?
If you’re thinking about House Renovation in the next 1-2 years, there are a few things to keep in mind. Yes, costs are going up, and it might be harder to find skilled workers, but there’s still plenty of demand for home improvements that boost energy efficiency and sustainability. Choosing between one area or full renovation depends on your budget, timeline, and tolerance for disruption.
Breaking your renovation down into stages can help manage costs and reduce stress, especially if you’re working with a tighter budget. However, if you’ve got the financial flexibility and want to get it all done in one go, doing everything at once could save you in the long run. Just be prepared for the higher upfront costs and potential disruption.
Planning ahead, researching options, and finding deals on materials and labour is key to managing renovation costs. With a bit of strategy, you can still get the home of your dreams without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re planning to renovate, build, or upgrade your home’s energy efficiency, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Contact 5J Building today and take the first step toward creating a home that’s stylish, efficient, and built to last! You may reach 5J Building Group by calling (03) 9886 3731, or obtain an Instant Quote Online.