Why Starting with Quotes Often Creates More Confusion (And What Helps Instead)

When you start looking for an interior designer in Singapore, the first question most people ask is: "What's your budget?"

It feels straightforward. Give them a number, get a quote, compare, and decide.

But here's what we've seen after working with thousands of homeowners: starting with a quote alone doesn't give you clarity. It usually creates more questions than answers.

Here's why this happens in Singapore, and what actually helps.

Why Quote-First Feels Efficient

The typical process goes like this:

1. You share your budget with a designer

2. They give you a quote to match that number

3. You compare it with other quotes

4. You try to decide based on price

   
   

On the surface, this seems like the logical way to start. But in Singapore's renovation market where regulations are strict, property types vary, and costs are significant this approach often leads to confusion.

Why Quote-First Creates Confusion

1. Hidden Costs and Add-Ons

Initial quotes are often designed to look competitive. But later, essential items like electrical rewiring, ceiling works, or additional carpentry appear as "extras" adding thousands to your final cost.

This isn't necessarily dishonest. It's just that without understanding your actual space and needs, designers quote based on assumptions and those assumptions don't always include everything you'll need.

💡 Not sure what your renovation might really cost?

Use our Renovation Cost Guide to see realistic price ranges for HDBs, condos, and landed homes based on actual projects.

2. Regulations Aren’t Accounted For

HDB and condo works require permits and follow strict rules. A quote given without reviewing your floor plan often ignores these requirements.

This can mean:

• Works that get rejected by HDB/MCST

• Additional costs for compliance you didn't budget for

• Delays while permits get sorted out

  
  

🎨 Want to see what's actually possible in your space?

Try our free AI 3D Render Tool. Preview layouts and designs that match your property's constraints before talking to anyone.

3. "Lowest Price" Can Mean Different Things

When you're comparing quotes without full context, you might be comparing:

• Different scopes (one includes hacking, another doesn't)

• Different quality levels (budget vs premium materials)

• Different assumptions (full bathroom vs partial upgrade)

The lowest number isn't necessarily the best value; it might just be quoting less work.

4. Quotation Fatigue Sets In

Comparing 5-10 quotes sounds smart. But when each one is based on different assumptions, you're not actually comparing fairly.

Instead of clarity, you end up overwhelmed, unsure which quote is realistic and which is missing things.

This Happens to Experienced Homeowners Too

Even if you've renovated before, it's still hard to know what's fair.

Why? Because renovation is something most people only do once or twice in their lifetime. The market changes, regulations update, and costs shift.

From what we've seen across thousands of homeowners:

• Budget confusion is normal

• Quote variation is expected

• Feeling overwhelmed is common

You're not behind, you just need the right information before comparing prices.

Real Cases in Singapore

This isn't theory. Singapore homeowners have experienced the cost of unclear quotes:

• $150,000 Lost in NovenaThe Straits Times reported a Novena penthouse case where $150K was paid upfront, but the contractor disappeared mid-project with incomplete works. (Straits Times).

• Renovation Scam Reports RisingCNA highlighted homeowners who paid large deposits for HDB renovations, only for firms to delay indefinitely and abandon the projects. (CNA)

• Top Consumer ComplaintAccording to CASE, renovation issues consistently rank in the top three consumer complaints every year with hidden costs and poor workmanship as the most common problems. (Today Online).

The pattern we see: a quote without context creates risk.

What You Should Ask For Instead

Before you look at numbers, get clarity on:

1. Layout Plan

How will your space actually flow and function?

2. Moodboard

What materials, textures, and style are you actually getting?

3. Scope Breakdown

What's included in the quote, and what isn't?

Once you have these, then compare quotes.

That way, you're comparing based on the same understanding, not different assumptions.

How Network Helps You Start with Clarity

We redesigned the renovation process to give you what actually helps:

1. Clarity first, quotes second

We start with understanding your space, style, and realistic scope before anyone talks about price.

2. Smart matching

You get matched with 3–5 verified interior designers who've done similar projects and understand your property type.

3. Transparent, comparable quotes

Because everyone's quoting the same scope with the same assumptions, you can actually compare fairly.

4. Tools to help you decide confidently

• Free AI 3D renders to visualize your space

• Cost guides based on real Singapore projects

• Complimentary renovation coverage when you proceed

Real Protection Included

When you proceed with a designer through Network, you're automatically covered by complimentary renovation insurance (up to $10K) through Singlife.

This covers fire, flood, theft, damage to your renovation work, and temporary accommodation if needed.

Why does this matter?

Designers who are confident in their work are comfortable being accountable. That's what coverage represents not just protection, but a signal of reliability.

Your Next Step

Renovating in Singapore isn't just abou3t choosing the lowest quote, it's about protecting your budget, your timeline, and your peace of mind.

Don't let unclear quotes create confusion. Start with clarity instead.

👉 Ready to plan your renovation the right way?

Get matched with 3–5 trusted renovators today.