A bathroom remodel is a top way to increase your home's value. If you are looking to give your master ensuite, guest bathroom, or kids' bathroom a new look, you can complete a bathroom remodel for less than $20,000. According to the Remodeling 2014 Cost vs. Value Report*, a midrange bathroom remodel costs on average, $16,128, and you can recoup 72.5% of the remodeling costs during resale. Use the tips below update your space and to add value to your home.
Photo: Keller & Keller
1. Create a design plan. The layout and functionality for your new bathroom should be determined by who will be using it the most.
-Kids bathroom: Consider a double sink to help mornings and bedtime go faster, a pullout stepstool built in to the vanity so little ones can reach the sink, and no-slip tile to avoid any bath time accidents.
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-Guest bath: Help guests feel at home by incorporating extra shelving so they have a place to store their items without feeling intrusive. Consider built-in shower shelves, and a vessel sink to allow for more under vanity storage space.
-Master ensuite:If you're looking to incorporate a spa-like quality into your home, this is the place to do so. Consider adding a heated marble floor (the small space will keep the cost down), a walk-in shower, and plenty of natural light.
2. Assess your skill set. While you may have the vision, be honest with yourself regarding your skill set and knowledge. Do you have the plumbing, flooring and general contracting experience to successfully complete your remodeling project? If you could use a professional hand, visit Porch.com to find remodeling professionals in your area.
3. Select appropriate finishes. Bathrooms can become dated in as little as five years. If you go trendy, consider looking into IKEA to keep your investment to a minimum. If you are looking for higher-end finishes, consult a designer to help select neutral, timeless finishes.
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4. Keep plumbing and ventilation in place. Two of the most important functional features of a bathroom are the plumbing and the ventilation. Surprise plumbing incidents can be costly, so base all renovations around the existing plumbing. Avoid blocking the main ventilation source such as a vent fan or window. If your bathroom doesn't currently have a source of ventilation, this should be at the top of your remodeling to-do list, to be proactive about preventing mold.
5. Think about storage capabilities. Does your home have adequate linen or hall closet space, or does your bathroom need to serve as the primary storage hub for towels, linens, toiletries and cleaning supplies? Consider built-in wall shelves, or wall-to-wall ceiling storage with built-in recessed lights.
Are you looking to expand your remodeling plans to the kitchen? Check out these Kitchen Remodeling Dos and Don'ts.
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*According to the Remodeling 2014 Cost vs. Value Report a mid-range bathroom update to an existing 5-by-7-foot bathroom. Replace all fixtures to include 30-by-60-inch porcelain-on-steel tub with 4-by-4-inch ceramic tile surround; new single-lever temperature and pressure-balanced shower control; standard white toilet; solid-surface vanity counter with integral sink; recessed medicine cabinet with light; ceramic tile floor; vinyl wallpaper.
A version of this story originally appeared on HomeFinder.com, a digital real estate site that offers an easy to navigate home search experience. Whether you are at home or on-the-go, HomeFinder.com makes it simple to find your new home.
