Renovation Cost Guides

Kitchen renovations in Vancouver span from $15,000 for cosmetic refreshes (paint, hardware, countertop swap) up to $72,000 for full custom-cabinet rebuilds with quartz islands and appliance upgrades. Material choice drives the biggest cost swing — stock cabinets vs custom millwork can mean $20K of difference on the same footprint.

Bathroom renovations run $10K–$20K for budget-friendly tile + vanity swaps, $20K–$35K for mid-range tub-to-shower conversions with custom vanity and frameless glass, and $40K+ for high-end curbless showers, freestanding tubs, and structural changes. Plumbing relocation alone adds $2K–$6K.

Whole-house renovations in Vancouver typically run $150–$400 per square foot, putting most projects between $50K (cosmetic refresh of a 2-bed condo) and $200K+ (full gut + addition on a SFH). Pre-1975 homes add 20–25% for asbestos and lead paint remediation. Design-build saves 10–15% vs hiring designer + contractor separately.

Basement renovations start at $30K for basic finishing (drywall, flooring, lighting), $60K–$80K once you add a full bathroom, and $80K–$120K+ for legal rental suites with separate entry, fire separation, and permit-ready plumbing. Vancouver permit fees alone run $2K–$5K. Ceiling height matters — under 6'8" needs structural work.

Commercial renovation cost varies by use type and permit complexity: small office refreshes from $50K, retail build-outs $100K–$300K, full restaurant kitchens $300K–$800K, and clinics with medical-grade plumbing $400K–$1M+. Off-hours scheduling and permit-handling are usually included in higher tiers.

Cabinet refinishing runs $4K–$7K (paint or stain existing cabinets), refacing $7K–$12K (new doors and drawer fronts on existing carcasses), and full replacement $12K–$15K+. Timeline 1–2 weeks vs 4–6 weeks for full kitchen replacement. Best ROI move when the cabinet boxes are still structurally sound.

Legal basement suite conversions cost $60K–$150K depending on existing layout, ceiling height, and municipal requirements. Vancouver, Burnaby, and Surrey all have different legalization paths. ROI is strong — typical Metro Vancouver suite generates $1,800–$2,400/month and lifts property value by 10–15%.