Renovating an apartment always takes time, money, and nerves. That’s why the “all‐inclusive renovation with materials” service is becoming increasingly popular in Georgia: one contractor, one estimate, one result. But is it really that simple? Where is the convenience, and where are the hidden markups? Let's take a look at the practical side of things — with prices, deadlines, and real‐life cases from Tbilisi, Batumi, and Kutaisi.
What does “apartment renovation with materials” mean?
All‐inclusive renovation is a format in which one company takes on:
- renovation work;
- purchasing and delivery of materials;
- monitoring deadlines and quality;
- final handover of the property.
What is usually included in the package
- Rough materials (cement, plaster, drywall, electrical work);
- finishing materials (tiles, laminate flooring, paint — by agreement);
- labor;
- waste removal;
- technical supervision.
Important: the contents of the package always vary—this is the main source of misunderstandings.
Pros and cons of all-inclusive renovations
Advantages
- Time savings — no need to go shopping.
- Single point of responsibility — no buck‐passing between contractors.
- Fixed price — if the contract is drawn up correctly.
- Convenient for remote clients (investors, homeowners abroad).
Disadvantages
- Higher price than if you buy the materials yourself.
- Limited choice of materials.
- Possible hidden markups.
- More difficult to control quality without a detailed estimate.
How much does renovation with materials cost in Georgia?
Average prices per m²:
- Cosmetic: $180—250/m², 3—5 weeks;
- Major: $300—450/m², 1.5—2 months;
- Designer: from $500/m², 2—3 months.
- Tbilisi has the widest selection of companies.
- Batumi has higher prices due to demand for new buildings.
- Kutaisi has lower costs but fewer contractors.
Where markups are hidden
Typical “traps”:
- materials without brand names and specifications;
- phrases such as “analog” or “economy class”;
- no breakdown of the scope of work;
- additional charges for “unforeseen” work;
- inflated volumes (extra square meters, linear meters).
Tip: always ask for a detailed estimate before signing a contract.
Mini‐case: how to choose a renovation company
A 62 m² apartment in a new building in Tbilisi. Two offers:
- Company A: $22,000, without a breakdown of materials.
- Company B: $24,500, with brands, photos of stages, and a guarantee.
Result: the client chose the second option and did not pay any extra charges.
What to look for
- Fixed‐price contract;
- Photos and videos of previous projects;
- Real reviews (not just on Instagram);
- Warranty on work (from 6 months);
- Contact details for the foreman, not just the manager.
Stages of turnkey renovation
- Measurements and technical specifications.
- Cost estimate and approval of materials.
- Signing of the contract.
- Rough work.
- Finishing work.
- Final acceptance.
Facts
- Up to 30 % overpayment — in the absence of a detailed estimate.
- Average delay — 7—14 days without penalties in the contract.
- 80 % of problems — due to low‐quality materials.
- The most popular format — turnkey major repairs.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is renovation with materials always more expensive?
Yes, but it is often cheaper in the end due to the absence of rework and downtime.
Can I choose my own materials?
Yes, if the company is flexible and specifies this in the contract.
What should I do if the price increases during the process?
Check the contract: additional payments are only allowed for additional work.
How long does it take to renovate a 50—70 m² apartment?
On average, 1.5—2 months for a major renovation.
Do companies work with new buildings?
Yes, this is the main segment in Tbilisi and Batumi.
Is it possible to do renovations remotely?
Yes, if there are photo reports and a responsible foreman.
All‐inclusive apartment renovation is a convenient solution if:
- you want predictable results;
- you value your time;
- you are willing to pay for control and responsibility.
The main thing is not to believe “pretty numbers,” but to understand the details. Competent renovation begins not with construction, but with the right choice of contractor.