Key Takeaways
- Grey structure (PKR 3,250/sqft): you control finishing, spend in phases.
- Turnkey (PKR 4,800+/sqft): one contract, one price, move-in ready.
- Overseas owners overwhelmingly choose turnkey; hands-on local owners often prefer grey structure.
What is the difference between grey structure and turnkey?
Grey structure is the complete structural shell, foundation, RCC frame, brickwork, plaster, roof, with no finishes. Turnkey is everything: structure plus flooring, kitchen, bathrooms, electrical, plumbing, paint and woodwork, handed over move-in ready. Grey structure costs about PKR 3,250/sqft in DHA Lahore; turnkey starts at PKR 4,800/sqft.
When is grey structure the right choice?
Choose grey structure only when you live in Lahore and can supervise finishing yourself, want to spread spending over time, or have your own trusted finishing contractors. You keep control of every tile and fixture selection at your own pace.
When is turnkey the right choice?
Choose turnkey when you are busy or overseas, want one accountable team and a single warranty, or need a predictable completion date. One BOQ fixes the entire price; milestone payments mean you pay only for verified work. See our overseas building guide.
Cost comparison for common DHA plot sizes
| Plot | Grey Structure | Turnkey Standard |
|---|---|---|
| 5 Marla | PKR 58-68L | PKR 95L-1.15Cr |
| 8 Marla (IVY Green) | PKR 94L-1.08Cr | PKR 1.50-1.75Cr |
| 10 Marla | PKR 1.17-1.35Cr | PKR 1.85-2.15Cr |
| 1 Kanal | PKR 2.34-2.70Cr | PKR 3.70-4.30Cr |
| 2 Kanal | PKR 4.60-5.30Cr | PKR 7.20-8.50Cr |
Can I start grey structure and upgrade to turnkey later?
Yes. Many clients sign grey structure first and add a finishing contract at slab stage once they have seen our site discipline. Pricing stays BOQ-itemised either way. Start with a free estimate on the contact page or try the calculator.