Former Big Brother contestant Skye Wheatley has publicly disclosed that financial constraints have significantly delayed the completion of her extensive Gold Coast property renovation. The 31-year-old influencer candidly addressed her budgetary struggles during a recent online question-and-answer session, highlighting the ongoing challenges she faces in finishing the project.
Renovation Progress Halted by Money Shortages
In a series of Instagram Stories posts, Wheatley appeared to inadvertently reveal that she has exhausted funds necessary for completing key exterior elements of her property. "Still need to do all the landscaping and the pool house," she wrote alongside an image showcasing an elaborate garden water feature. The social media personality further emphasized her financial limitations when sharing a photograph of a compact built-in pool surrounded by timber decking, commenting: "We'll probably do something like this because of budget."
Extended Timeline for Completion
Throughout her social media updates, Wheatley admitted that the renovation would not reach completion "for ages," indicating a substantially prolonged timeline. She also posted video content to her Instagram grid documenting furniture being moved into her common room, while simultaneously revealing she has been assisting with improvements to her mother's nearby property.
Years of Renovation Drama and Emotional Strain
Wheatley has consistently shared renovation progress updates since purchasing the dilapidated Spanish-inspired mansion in 2019, with many installments featuring considerable drama and emotional turmoil. In July 2025, the influencer confessed to experiencing an emotional breakdown related to the project, writing: "Wait till I update you on the latest reno disasters. I actually started crying and walked out when the trades were asking me questions."
At that time, Wheatley and her partner Lachlan Waugh were struggling to finalize their dream home in Tallai after acquiring the property for approximately $975,000. The couple has faced numerous obstacles including budget overruns, construction delays, and significant stress throughout the six-year renovation journey.
Design Compromises and Controversial Features
In another social media exchange, Wheatley humorously addressed concerns about her staircase design—previously criticized by followers as "too big for the space"—and dismissed worries about pendant lighting that some observers suggested resembled inappropriate shapes. Responding to a follower who commented that the light fixture appeared undersized, Wheatley wrote: "Hahaha that's what Lachy said and I agree. But I'm at the point now where I don't even give a flying f**k if there's a penis pendant hanging from the ceiling after five years of reno."
Living Through Unfinished Renovation
The renovation saga has extended through particularly challenging personal circumstances, including a period when the couple resided in a partially renovated section of the house while Wheatley was pregnant with their second child. Despite these difficulties, Wheatley continues to provide regular updates to her 647,000 Instagram followers and has hinted at potentially offering a comprehensive house tour once the renovation eventually reaches completion.
The prolonged project serves as a cautionary tale about the realities of major home renovations, particularly regarding budget management and timeline expectations. Wheatley's transparency about her financial struggles and emotional experiences provides followers with an authentic glimpse into the often stressful process of transforming a property, while her determination to continue sharing the journey maintains engagement with her substantial social media audience.
