Cost guide
What a home renovation costs in Salento, per square metre
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Written by Virginia Buccarella, architetto in Gallipoli, registered with the Ordine degli Architetti P.P.C. della Provincia di Lecce.
In short
Generally speaking, in Gallipoli and Salento a partial renovation starts from around €500-700/m², while a complete renovation with renovation of systems and finishes is often between €900 and €1,400/m². The real figure depends on the starting state, the level of finishes and the complexity of the systems: a realistic estimate can only be made after a site visit.
What the cost really depends on
The price per square meter is a starting point, not an answer. For the same surface area, the state of the systems (rebuilding them from scratch costs more than adapting them), the structural works, the level of the finishes chosen and the logistics of the construction site have an impact. An apartment on the upper floors without a lift, for example, has higher handling costs.
Partial or complete renovation
A cosmetic renovation (flooring, paint, a bathroom) is on the low end. A complete renovation that reviews the distribution, electrical and plumbing systems, windows and finishes brings the figure upwards, but is also the one that really changes the value and comfort of the property.
How to keep the cost under control
The most effective way is not to cut on materials, but to decide first: a defined project and a detailed bill of quantities before opening the site eliminate most of the variations during construction, which are the real source of overruns. Every euro spent on upstream planning saves several in site.
Bonuses and deductions
Some interventions can access tax deductions, which change over time. They must be verified on a case-by-case basis and in the current year, because the percentages and requirements are updated. During the project phase I evaluate which benefits are applicable to your intervention.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
In terms of order of magnitude, for a complete renovation on 80 m² we often start from around €70,000-110,000, depending on the starting state and the level of finishes. It is an indicative range: the precise figure requires a site visit and a bill of quantities.
It depends on local prices and the extent of the work. Renovating allows you to get exactly what you need and often increases value, but it requires time and management. In highly sought-after areas of Salento, a property in need of good renovation can remain a good investment.
No, the figures per square meter generally refer to the works. The fee for the project, practices and construction supervision is separate, but it is what keeps the cost of the works themselves under control: on a non-trivial intervention it tends to pay for itself.