Renovating a 1,200 square foot home in Toronto can be exciting, but it can also feel a bit overwhelming, especially when it comes to figuring out costs. Prices can vary widely depending on the type of work, the materials you choose, and whether the home is newer or has older systems that need updating.
In this guide, we’ll break down what you can realistically expect to spend, explain what different renovation budgets cover, and share tips to help you plan a smooth, stress-free renovation.
Average Cost for a 1,200 Sq Ft Renovation in Toronto
Renovation costs in Toronto are usually calculated per square foot. Here’s a simple overview for 2026:
| Renovation Type |
Cost per Sq Ft |
Estimated Total Cost |
| Cosmetic / Minor Updates |
$100 – $150 |
$120,000 – $180,000 |
| Mid-Range Renovation |
$150 – $250 |
$180,000 – $300,000 |
| High-End / Full Renovation |
$250 – $400+ |
$300,000 – $480,000+ |
These estimates include labour, materials, and permits, typical for Toronto homes.
What Each Budget Covers
Cosmetic Renovation
This is a lighter renovation focusing mostly on the look and feel of your home.
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Painting walls and ceilings
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Replacing or refinishing flooring
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Updating lighting fixtures
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Small trim and door improvements
Who it’s for: Great for newer homes or homes that don’t need major work, and for those looking to refresh their space without changing the layout.
Mid-Range Renovation
A mid-range renovation is perfect if you want noticeable improvements without tearing everything down.
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Kitchen updates (cabinets, countertops, appliances)
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Bathroom upgrades
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New flooring throughout
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Some electrical or plumbing updates
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Minor layout changes (non-load-bearing walls)
Who it’s for: Families looking to modernize an older home or improve functionality and style.
Full Renovation / High-End
This is the most extensive type of renovation, often called a full gut.
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Complete interior demolition
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Structural changes (like removing walls or adding beams)
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New plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems
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Custom kitchens and luxury bathrooms
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Premium finishes and millwork
Who it’s for: Older homes, century homes, or homeowners looking to completely transform their space.
Cost Breakdown by Area
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Kitchen: $35,000 – $75,000+ depending on cabinetry, countertops, and appliances
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Bathrooms: $15,000 – $30,000 each for fixtures, tiling, and waterproofing
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Flooring: $12,000 – $25,000 depending on material choice
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Electrical & Plumbing Upgrades: $15,000 – $40,000 if systems need updating
Why Toronto Renovations Can Cost More
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Labour Costs: Skilled tradespeople in Toronto are in high demand.
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Permits & Inspections: Required for plumbing, electrical, structural changes, and some basement work.
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Older Homes: Some properties need extra work like rewiring, plumbing updates, or asbestos removal.
Tip: Always include a 10–20% contingency in your budget for surprises.
How Long Will a Renovation Take?
| Renovation Type |
Typical Timeline |
| Cosmetic |
4–6 weeks |
| Mid-Range |
8–12 weeks |
| Full Renovation |
4–6+ months |
Keep in mind, design, permits, and material availability can affect timelines.
Budgeting Tips
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Make a list of must-haves vs. nice-to-haves
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Avoid moving plumbing or walls unless necessary
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Choose durable, mid-range finishes to balance quality and cost
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Get multiple itemized quotes from contractors
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Include contingency funds to cover unexpected issues
Renovating a 1,200 sq ft home in Toronto can cost anywhere from $120,000 to over $400,000 depending on the level of work. By planning carefully, knowing what to expect at each budget level, and working with experienced professionals, you can create a home that’s both functional and beautiful.
You can contact Grand Design Build to get started with your project.
