November 4, 2025
Do you really save money with a cheaper quote?
When it comes to home renovations, the age-old wisdom "you get what you pay for" often proves true.
While it's tempting to choose the lowest renovation quote, savvy homeowners understand that an attractive price tag might hide costly surprises. Many cheaper renovation quotes fail to include essential components or substitute quality materials, leading to hidden renovation costs that quickly erase any perceived savings. [1]
Industry experts note that final renovation bills typically exceed initial quotes by 10–20%. This is why renovation guides consistently recommend setting aside a substantial contingency fund for unexpected issues that arise during the renovation process. [2][3]
Before signing that seemingly budget-friendly contract, take time to consider what might be lurking beneath the surface.
In a design-build project, one firm handles both design and construction. This one-stop approach streamlines the process and aligns budgets with design goals from the start. [4] By contrast, hiring separate contractors requires piecing together multiple quotes and scopes.
Design-build teams provide an itemized quote covering all phases, from design planning and permits to carpentry and painting. While this integrated quote should include everything, homeowners must still scrutinize the details.
As Earth Interior Design's renovation checklist advises, "check what each quote includes and excludes", as some builders quote high to cover everything, while others quote low by omitting costs. [5]
Design-build specialists typically know local regulations (HDB/BCA guidelines) and can help avoid forbidden works and fines. However, always verify that permits are secured for work like hacking floors, moving structural walls, or altering ceilings. [3]
Overlooking permit fees or compliance requirements can transform a cheaper renovation quote into a costly headache later.
When a quote seems suspiciously low, ask the firm to break down the design, materials, and labor costs. A transparent design-build team in will include these essentials in their upfront pricing.
It's natural to want the best deal, but cheap contractor risks are real. Industry experts warn: "you get what you pay for," especially in renovations. A low bid typically means corners are cut.
Titan Rebuild explains that the "lowest bid comes with several hidden hiccups including inexperienced subcontractors, unlicensed or untrained workers…", placing your project in a precarious situation.
The consequences are often serious. Projects can face significant delays (one renovation promised in 1 month actually took 4 months) and numerous change orders as contractors struggle to fulfill their commitments. [6]
Together, these factors demonstrate that a cheaper renovation quote can be misleading. What seems like savings may disappear once you cover extras, fixes, or even contractor defaults.
Homeowners must weigh quality vs price renovation decisions carefully. Elpis Interior Design advises, "don't always opt for the cheapest option" as investing in slightly higher-quality materials or workmanship usually pays off with greater durability. [7]
Paying a bit more upfront can help you avoid redoing work later. For example, a slightly stronger countertop or better moisture-proofing might cost 10% more now but will spare you replacement costs in just a few years.
A smart approach is to create a list of must-haves versus "nice-to-haves." If you have a firm budget, prioritize structural essentials and be flexible on finishes. Leverage the expertise of your design-build firm, they can often suggest alternative materials that reduce costs without sacrificing quality standards.
Remember Titan's warning: "subpar quality work can break your bank in the long run". [6] Ultimately, the best value typically comes from a mid-range quote with high transparency, rather than the absolute cheapest bid.
In conclusion, a cheaper renovation quote is only a bargain if it truly reflects all the work you need. Most renovation costs are complex, and cheap bids often ignore permit fees, extra work, or material quality, turning initial "savings" into costly overruns.
Instead, focus on the quality vs price equation: work with qualified design-build professionals who provide transparent, detailed quotes.
At REGIMEN, our design-build team guarantees an itemized quote and high-quality workmanship. We handle all permits, materials, and construction, so you know exactly what you're paying for.
Don't let hidden costs or cheap contractor risks derail your renovation. Contact us today for a comprehensive quotation and experience a renovation where budget and quality are perfectly balanced.
