In Toronto, even the simplest renovation can become a full-time job—unless you know how to plan for it.

Whether it’s a downtown condo or a 1920s house in the West End, the difference between a smart reno and a stressful one is knowing what to expect… and how to get ahead of it.

So let’s walk through it together—timelines, costs, what to watch for, and how to avoid the mistakes I see people make every year.

Refer to more articles like this on my website:

• 5 Renovation Pitfalls That Can Derail a Toronto Home Purchase
• 6 Top 6 Renovation Tips for Toronto Homeowners (2025)

Renovation Timelines

If you’re renovating a condo, a full gut job usually takes 8 to 12 weeks of construction time. But that doesn’t include design, material orders, board approval, or city permits. When you factor that in? You’re looking at 3 to 5 months, start to finish.

A kitchen-only condo reno? Typically 4 to 8 weeks—longer if you’re doing custom cabinets or imported tile. Bathroom-only? If you’re lucky and everything’s in stock, maybe 2 to 4 weeks.

Now, let’s talk houses. A full gut renovation of an older Toronto home can take 12 to 18 months from start to finish—especially if you’re doing structural changes or additions. Even a main-floor kitchen and living space update can take 3 to 5 months of solid work.

City permits, contractor availability, material delays, and surprise issues in old homes can all add to your timeline. The biggest mistake I see is setting unrealistic expectations.

Renovation Costs

If you’re buying a place thinking, “We’ll fix it up for $50k,” let’s run some numbers together.

In condos, a light cosmetic refresh starts around $100/sq. ft. A full reno with kitchen, bath, flooring, and finishes? That’s $150–$250/sq. ft. A 700 sq. ft. unit update: $90k–$150k depending on finishes.

House renos cost more: full gut jobs range $200–$400/sq. ft. A 2,000 sq. ft. full reno can run $400k+.

• Kitchens: $30k–$80k
• Bathrooms: $15k–$40k+
• Flooring: $3–$8/sq. ft.
• Painting: $3.50–$8.00/sq. ft.
• Wall removal (structural): $8k–$15k

What Makes a True Fixer-Upper

An old kitchen with orange countertops? That’s cosmetic. But knob-and-tube wiring, plumbing issues, or a leaking basement? That’s a true fixer-upper—and a different budget.

If it’s a house built before 1980 and untouched, get a full inspection before committing. Don’t guess—know what you’re buying.

Solutions to Common Renovation Challenges

• Plan early and thoroughly: Choose materials, lock design, and submit approvals early.
• Book contractors in advance: Good teams book out months ahead.
• Always add 15–20% for contingency: Surprises are normal in old buildings.
• Know condo board rules: Miss a step, and you could be delayed by weeks.
• Move out if possible: Work goes faster when trades don’t have to work around you.
• Written contracts only: Scope, timeline, payment—get it in writing.

Who Works With Me & Why

My clients aren’t afraid of renovations. They’re smart buyers who want a great location and are ready to do the work—but they want a plan.

They find me through my videos and blog. I help them understand what they’re walking into—and if it’s the right move for their life and finances.

If you’re one of them and want the renovation to feel like an opportunity—not a risk—I’m here to help you make the right move.

Email me at Olena@AgentOlena.com | Call or text me at 647-294-3039