Timeline and hidden costs for a full renovation of an old 60-70 m² apartment

A full renovation of an old 60-70 m² apartment is rarely just “new paint and flooring”. The real work often starts with removing old layers, finding weak walls, checking installations, carrying waste, and preparing surfaces that have accumulated problems for years.

Realistic timeline

The timeline depends on the scope, access, condition, and decisions that are already made. An old apartment can take longer than a new-build apartment because the team first has to reveal and correct hidden problems.

Demolition, waste removal, drying times, installation changes, leveling, plastering, sanding, primer, paint, flooring, and final details all need their own time.

Typical hidden costs

Hidden costs usually come from work that is not visible in the final photos: carrying materials, removing old layers, taking out waste, repairing weak plaster, closing channels, leveling floors, and preparing walls.

Demolition and waste

In old apartments, demolition is not only about breaking. Waste must be packed, carried, loaded, and removed. If there is no elevator or access is difficult, this becomes a real part of the budget and schedule.

Walls and surfaces

Old walls often need more than paint. They may require plaster repair, mesh, primer, gypsum plastering compound, fine plastering, sanding, and careful preparation before latex paint can look good.

Skipping this stage usually creates a cheap-looking finish even if the final paint is expensive.

How to plan better

Start with realistic expectations. Send photos and videos, clarify the desired scope, and be ready for the first inspection to reveal extra preparation work. A good offer should separate visible finishes from the hidden work needed to make those finishes last.