Toronto homeowners are renovating more than ever—whether it’s expanding older homes, modernizing interiors, or preparing properties for multigenerational living. With rising construction demand and limited housing supply, a well-planned renovation isn’t just an upgrade; it’s one of the smartest investments you can make in Toronto’s real estate market.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know about home renovation in Toronto, including costs, timelines, design trends, permit rules, and how to choose the right contractor.
Toronto’s housing landscape is changing quickly. High property values and limited lot availability mean most families are choosing to renovate instead of moving. Here’s why:
Most homes in:
Beaches
Danforth
Leaside
Etobicoke
Midtown
were built between the 1950s–1990s and require modernization—especially electrical, plumbing, insulation, and layout changes.
Toronto families need:
Basement conversions
Secondary suites
Larger kitchens
Additional bathrooms
Barrier-free designs for seniors
Renovating is often more cost-effective than selling and buying a new home. A well-executed renovation can increase resale value by 20–35%.
Transforming the entire home-layout, mechanical upgrades, finishes, insulation, and energy efficiency.
Best for:
Older homes, structural issues, beyond-cosmetic updates.
Toronto’s #1 most-requested renovation. Modern kitchens prioritize:
Open-concept layouts
Large islands
Hidden storage
High-end appliances
Upgrades include walk-in showers, floating vanities, heated floors, and luxury fixtures (TOTO, Kohler, Rohl).
Demand is driven by rental income and multigenerational living.
Legal basements often include:
Egress windows
New plumbing
Soundproofing
Insulation upgrades
Separate entrance
Older Toronto homes have closed-off rooms. Open-concept main floors improve resale value and family living flow.
Not always full rebuilds—many homeowners add:
Rear extensions
Second-storey additions
Add-a-level conversions
Interior additions within existing footprint
Costs vary based on scope, materials, and structural work, but here are industry-standard ranges:
| Renovation Type | Estimated Cost (Toronto 2025) |
|---|---|
| Full Home Renovation | $275 – $450 per sq. ft. |
| Kitchen Renovation | $45,000 – $120,000+ |
| Bathroom Renovation | $20,000 – $55,000+ |
| Basement Renovation | $55,000 – $150,000+ |
| Legal Basement Apartment | $90,000 – $170,000 |
| Home Addition | $350 – $550 per sq. ft. |
Note:
Costs are higher in Toronto due to labour demand, material pricing, architectural and engineering requirements, and city permit rules.
Renovations often require approvals from:
Committee of Adjustment (if variances required)
Heritage Conservation (if in older neighbourhoods)
You’ll need a permit if you’re doing:
Structural changes
Moving/removing load-bearing walls
Basement underpinning
Additions
Plumbing changes
Electrical changes
New basement apartments
Any work affecting life safety
Drawings + Engineering: 3–6 weeks
City Review: 3–8 weeks
Committee of Adjustment (if required): 2–4 months
Soft whites, warm greys, fluted wood, natural stone.
Automated lighting, voice-activated appliances, smart thermostats, and security systems.
Heat pumps, high-performance windows, and better insulation driven by rising energy costs.
Steam showers, freestanding tubs, heated floors, aromatherapy systems.
Home offices, convertible guest rooms, play + study rooms.
Choosing the wrong contractor is the biggest risk. Here’s what to look for:
Avoid contractors who:
give vague quotes
ask for large upfront payments
avoid written contracts
can’t show permits from previous jobs
Understanding goals, budget, and feasibility.
Drawings, engineering, and layout planning.
Permit submission, zoning review, Committee of Adjustment if needed.
Demolition → framing → plumbing/electrical → drywall → flooring → finishes → inspections.
Quality checks and warranty documentation.
Renovations that bring the highest ROI:
Kitchen remodel: 75–100% return
Bathroom remodel: 60–80%
Finished basement: 70–150% (if legal suite)
Main-floor layout change: 65–90%
Energy upgrades: High long-term value
Lawrence Park
Leaside
Annex
Yonge & Eglinton
North York (Bayview Village, Willowdale)
Etobicoke (The Kingsway)
Beaches
Danforth
These areas consistently outperform Toronto averages in renovation ROI.
Whether you’re planning a modern kitchen, luxury bathroom, legal basement suite, or full home transformation, renovating in Toronto increases comfort, liveability, and long-term property value.