Georgia has become one of the most attractive destinations for real estate investment in Eastern Europe. Affordable property prices, growing tourism, and simplified ownership laws make it especially appealing for foreigners. But if you’re buying a home or apartment here, there’s one key question to ask before moving forward:
How much does a renovation cost in Georgia?
In this article, we’ll break down typical renovation prices, explain the factors that affect costs, and share practical advice for budgeting and working with local renovation companies — especially if you’re managing your project from abroad.
1. Understanding the Georgian Renovation Market
Renovation costs in Georgia vary depending on location, project size, design complexity, and material quality. Tbilisi, Batumi, and Kutaisi are the main cities where most renovation projects happen, each with slightly different labor and material costs.
Compared to Western Europe or the U.S., Georgia offers significantly lower renovation expenses — often 40–60% cheaper — while maintaining good craftsmanship and access to imported materials. That’s why many foreign homeowners choose to purchase older apartments and fully renovate them rather than buying new, finished ones.
2. Average Renovation Costs per Square Meter
While prices can fluctuate, here’s a general overview of average renovation costs in Georgia (2025 estimates):
Type of Renovation Approx. Cost per m² (USD) Description
Basic / Cosmetic Renovation $150 – $250 Painting, flooring, tiling, minor updates
Standard / Medium Renovation $300 – $450 Plumbing, wiring, kitchen, bathroom, new doors/windows
Premium / Full Renovation $500 – $700+ High-end finishes, custom furniture, full design project
For a 70 m² apartment in Tbilisi, a standard renovation typically costs around $20,000–$30,000, depending on materials and design complexity.
These numbers usually include labor and standard materials, but exclude furniture, appliances, or major structural changes unless specified in the contract.
3. What’s Included in the Price
A professional renovation company in Georgia typically provides a comprehensive package that includes:
• Demolition and debris removal
• Electrical and plumbing installation
• Wall plastering and painting
• Flooring (laminate, parquet, or tile)
• Ceiling finishing (drywall or stretch ceiling)
• Bathroom and kitchen setup
• Project management and cleanup
You can also request turnkey renovation — meaning the company handles everything from design to furnishing — ideal for foreign homeowners who can’t be present in Georgia during construction.
4. Factors That Affect Renovation Costs
Several factors influence the final price of a renovation project in Georgia:
a. Size and Type of Property
A small studio or 1-bedroom apartment will naturally cost less overall, but the cost per square meter can be slightly higher due to minimum labor expenses. Larger properties benefit from scale efficiency.
b. Quality of Materials
Choosing locally made materials reduces expenses, while imported finishes (from Italy, Spain, or Germany) can double or triple the cost. Georgia has many local suppliers offering good quality at competitive prices.
c. Design Complexity
A simple minimalist design requires less labor, while a custom layout or luxury finish demands more time, precision, and expertise — increasing the total budget.
d. Location
Renovation in Tbilisi tends to be slightly more expensive due to higher labor demand, while prices in Batumi or Kutaisi are often 10–15% lower.
e. Project Management and Communication
If you’re living abroad, you’ll likely rely on a renovation company that provides remote supervision, progress reports, and bilingual contracts. This professional service adds value and ensures peace of mind, though it may slightly increase costs.
5. How to Budget for a Renovation in Georgia
When planning your budget, keep these essential points in mind:
• Add a 10–15% contingency fund for unexpected expenses (hidden plumbing issues, material shortages, etc.).
• Request a detailed estimate before work begins — listing materials, labor, and schedule.
• Agree on a fixed-price contract when possible to avoid cost overruns.
• Verify whether furniture, lighting, and appliances are included in the quote.
• Don’t forget permits or design fees if major structural changes are involved.
A transparent contract in both Georgian and English helps protect your interests and prevent misunderstandings.
6. Managing a Renovation from Abroad
Many foreign homeowners successfully manage their renovation in Georgia remotely. Choose a trusted renovation company in Tbilisi or Batumi that offers:
• Weekly photo or video progress reports
• Dedicated project manager (English-speaking)
• Secure online payments
• Access to digital folders with invoices and updates
This approach allows you to control your project from anywhere in the world while ensuring that everything moves according to plan.
7. Tips to Save Money Without Sacrificing Quality
• Use locally available materials — Georgian and Turkish suppliers often offer great value.
• Simplify the design — clean, minimal interiors are both affordable and timeless.
• Plan early — ordering materials in advance avoids costly delays.
• Work with a company that offers design + build packages for better pricing and coordination.
Conclusion
Renovating a home in Georgia can be both affordable and rewarding, especially compared to many Western markets. Depending on your design and materials, renovation costs typically range from $150 to $700 per square meter.
By partnering with a reliable local renovation company, setting a clear budget, and maintaining open communication, foreign homeowners can easily manage the process — even from abroad — and transform their Georgian property into a beautiful, modern home.