Whether you want to buy, sell or increase the value of your property, renovation work is an essential lever to improve comfort, energy performance and the value of your home. This guide walks you through the different types of renovation projects, how to organize them, their costs and the financial aid available in 2026, with the support of your Capifrance real estate advisor.
What are the different types of renovation work?
Renovating a home can take several forms depending on the condition of the property and your objectives. Do you want to improve the comfort of your home, increase the value of a property before selling, or reduce your energy bills? Each renovation project meets specific needs.
Interior renovation: bathroom, kitchen and living areas
Interior renovation includes all the work that transforms the appearance and comfort of living spaces. It includes painting, replacing floor coverings, renovating the kitchen and bathroom, or modifying partitions to redesign circulation and the layout of living areas. Decoration, plumbing and electricity are often updated during this process to meet current standards and occupants’ expectations. For homeowners who want to sell, these works are often a priority. A modern kitchen, a renovated bathroom and well-maintained living spaces significantly increase the attractiveness of a property during viewings.
Energy and thermal renovation
Energy renovation aims to reduce a home's energy consumption and improve thermal comfort. It includes work such as attic insulation, external wall insulation, replacing heating systems with high-performance equipment (heat pump, condensing boiler), installing mechanical ventilation (VMC), or replacing patio doors and windows. These improvements have a direct impact on the EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) and significantly reduce energy bills. A well-insulated home equipped with a modern heating system can gain several energy classes and avoid being classified as an energy-inefficient property. In 2026, energy renovation benefits from numerous financial aids, including MaPrimeRénov’, making these works more accessible and profitable in the long term.
Structural repair and full renovation of an old house
Full renovation goes beyond simple improvements. It concerns older houses requiring major structural work such as roof repair, facade renovation, electrical system upgrades, replacing the roof structure or treating humidity issues. Structural repair refers to restoring an existing element identically, while full renovation may involve substantial modifications and improvements. In the case of an apartment in a condominium, some work requires approval from the general assembly, particularly work affecting common areas or the external appearance of the building. These large-scale projects require careful planning, multiple contractors and a significant budget. However, they make it possible to transform an old property into a modern and energy-efficient home.
Checklist of the main types of renovation work:
Interior renovation: painting, floor coverings, fitted kitchen, modern bathroom, partitions, decoration, plumbing, electricity. Energy renovation: attic insulation, wall insulation, mechanical ventilation, heat pump, window replacement, improved EPC. Full renovation: roofing, facade renovation, roof structure, electrical upgrades, humidity treatment, restoration of old houses. To identify renovation work that increases property value, it is recommended to consult a Capifrance advisor who will guide you according to your project and the local market.
How to organize your renovation project and estimate renovation costs?
Where should you start when renovating an apartment or a house?
Before starting work, it is essential to carry out a diagnosis of the existing property. This step helps identify structural issues, outdated installations and energy renovation needs. In the case of an apartment, also check the condominium regulations, as some work requires prior authorization. An energy audit may be recommended to prioritize work and optimize your budget. Once the diagnosis is complete, define your priorities according to your real estate project. If you are preparing to sell, prioritize work that increases property value, such as renovating the kitchen or bathroom. Meeting with a certified RGE professional (Recognized Environmental Guarantor) will allow you to receive appropriate advice and benefit from available financial aid. The recommended order for organizing your renovation follows a logical construction sequence. Start with structural work (load-bearing walls, roofing, waterproofing), then move on to secondary work (insulation, plumbing, electricity, ventilation) and finish with final touches (painting, flooring, decoration). This sequence ensures smooth project management and avoids construction defects.
Price per m², quotes and renovation cost estimates
Renovation costs vary significantly depending on the scope of the work. Here is a comparison table to help estimate your budget: Type of renovation Price per m² Examples of work Light renovation 200 to 500 € Painting, flooring, refreshing Complete renovation 500 to 1,000 € Kitchen, bathroom, electricity, plumbing Heavy renovation 1,000 to 1,500 € Structural work, full insulation, restructuring These ranges include materials and labor, but several factors can affect the final price. The quality of materials chosen, the surface area to renovate, the project location and the completion timeline directly influence the total cost. In some regions, labor costs may be higher. To secure your project, request several quotes from RGE-certified companies. This certification is essential to benefit from financial aid and guarantees compliance with current standards. Compare proposals in detail, check contractors’ qualifications and make sure each quote clearly states the planned work, deadlines and guarantees provided.
What financial aid is available for renovation work in 2026?
MaPrimeRénov’ 2026 and government aid
MaPrimeRénov’ remains in 2026 the main financial aid for energy renovation of housing. Managed by Anah and accessible via the public service France Rénov’, it has undergone significant changes this year. The income thresholds have been revised according to reference tax income, with four distinct profiles (Blue, Yellow, Purple, Pink). Priority is clearly given to major renovations that allow at least two energy classes improvement on the EPC. Aid ceilings can reach €30,000 for a two-class improvement, and up to €40,000 for a three-class improvement or more. Support from a Rénov’ advisor becomes mandatory for major renovation projects. Local authorities also offer additional financial aid depending on your location. To know your eligibility and simulate your rights, visit the France Rénov’ website and discover MaPrimeRénov’ 2026: the new criteria.
Reduced VAT rate applicable to renovation work
If your home was completed more than two years ago, you may benefit from a reduced VAT rate of 5.5% for energy renovation work. For improvement and maintenance work that does not fall under energy renovation, an intermediate rate of 10% applies. Be careful, these reduced rates are subject to the work being carried out by an RGE-certified professional. If you purchase materials yourself, only the installation service will benefit from the reduced rate.
Eco-interest-free loan and other financing solutions
The eco-interest-free loan (eco-PTZ) allows you to finance your energy renovation work without paying interest. This loan can reach €50,000 and be repaid over a maximum period of 20 years. It is accessible without income conditions, provided the property was completed at least two years ago and is used as a primary residence. The eco-PTZ can be combined with MaPrimeRénov’ subject to compliance with accumulation rules and ceilings. Energy Savings Certificates (CEE) are another financial aid offered by energy suppliers (gas, electricity, fuel oil). Their amount varies depending on the type of work and the supplier chosen. You may also benefit from tax credits in certain specific cases. The good news is that it is possible to combine several financial aids to significantly reduce your remaining costs. To optimize your financing and benefit from personalized support for your renovation projects, make an appointment with a Capifrance advisor near you.
Renovation company or Capifrance advisor: which support should you choose?
When you are considering renovation work as part of a real estate project, two types of support complement each other. The renovation company carries out the work, while the Capifrance real estate advisor helps you make the right strategic decisions. Before starting a house renovation or apartment renovation, a Capifrance advisor can estimate your property value before and after the work. This support allows you to identify renovations that will truly increase your property value during a sale or purchase. Your local advisor also directs you to qualified professionals and helps you build your financial aid application file. Capifrance offers free valuation tools and personalized support for both buyers and sellers. Making an appointment with a Capifrance real estate advisor means benefiting from local expertise to optimize your renovation project and maximize your return on investment.
FAQ about renovation work
What is the difference between renovation and structural repair?
Structural repair consists of restoring a property identically, without modifying its structure or equipment. It mainly aims to restore damaged or worn elements. Renovation, on the other hand, includes improvements and modifications that transform the property, both aesthetically and energetically. The nature of the work determines the legal obligations and applicable financial aid. Thus, energy renovation allows you to benefit from MaPrimeRénov’, while simple structural repair may not be eligible.
Which renovation works are tax deductible and how should they be declared?
For your primary residence, routine maintenance work generally does not provide a direct tax advantage. However, energy renovation work may benefit from MaPrimeRénov’, which replaces the former tax credit. Elderly or mobility-impaired individuals may qualify for a 25% tax reduction for accessibility equipment. To declare these works, keep all invoices and report the corresponding amounts in your annual tax return. The work must be carried out by RGE-certified professionals to be eligible for aid.
Should you carry out renovation work yourself?
Doing your own renovation work can save labor costs. However, this option presents significant risks: loss of the ten-year construction warranty, ineligibility for financial aid such as MaPrimeRénov’, and risk of poor workmanship if you lack expertise. For major work, especially those related to energy renovation or the building structure, it is strongly recommended to hire RGE-certified professionals. You will benefit from guarantees, work compliant with standards and access to financial aid programs.
Which works are eligible for MaPrimeRénov’?
Eligible works include thermal insulation (attics, floors), installation of heat pumps, replacement of efficient heating systems (condensing boilers, for example), ecological domestic hot water production and mechanical ventilation. In 2026, major renovation projects are prioritized, with aid ceilings reaching €30,000 for a two energy class improvement or €40,000 for three classes or more. The work must be carried out by RGE-certified professionals.
What is the role of France Rénov’ in a renovation project?
France Rénov’ is the free public housing renovation service managed by the National Housing Agency (Anah) in partnership with Ademe. It is the single entry point for all your renovation projects. France Rénov’ guides and advises you throughout your project, from defining your needs to completing the work. You can access information, financial aid simulators and a directory of RGE-certified professionals via the france-renov.gouv.fr platform or by calling the national free number. A network of more than 450 advisory offices is also available throughout the country.
