There’s an old saying that kitchens and bathrooms sell homes, but can a complete bathroom remodel really increase the value of your home? Although it may seem too good to be true, most realtors agree that a well-planned and thoughtfully executed bathroom renovation can help boost the resale value of your home and could even decrease the amount of time it sits on the market. In fact, between 2006 and 2012, the return on an average bathroom remodel investment averaged around 62 percent – in 2014, the number hovers near 72 percent. Here’s some things to consider when renovating your bathroom.
Appeal to the Masses
If you’re remodeling your bathroom with a resale in mind, remember that your taste is your taste. Just because you think striped wallpaper and a DIY vanity will look great doesn’t mean potential buyers will agree. One rule to follow: mark your taste with objects that are easily removed, like towels, rugs, and other accessories. When it comes to permanent fixtures, like bathroom vanities or tubs, stay as neutral as possible. In doing so, the towels and rugs can easily be replaced with neutral colored alternatives during an open house and potential buyers will easily be able to picture themselves living in your space.
Stick to the Basics
When it comes to a bathroom remodel, you don’t always have to go overboard to make a lasting impression. If you’re confused about where to start or what to fix, stick with the basics. The most popular bathroom improvements include those that focused on convenience and luxury: showerheads with temperature controls and adjustable settings, bathtubs with in-line heaters, adjustable jet speeds, and foot massage jets, new filtration systems, and adding new tile if you have an outdated vinyl or linoleum floor. Sometimes all you need is a little extra oomph, especially if you’re on a strict budget.
Go Big, or Go Home
In 2014, the average bathroom remodel size was between 400 and 800 square feet, so don’t stress if your bathroom is on the smaller side! Instead of knocking down walls to add more square feet, you can create the illusion of more space with a few simple tricks. By adding large mirrors, additional lighting, or extra windows you can take advantage of natural light and make your bathroom feel more spacious. If you’re planning to undergo a major renovation, consider stealing square footage from an adjoining room or adding a completely new bathroom – it can only add to the resale value of your home.
Get Expert Advice
If you’re unsure about where to start with your bathroom renovation, make an appointment with a real estate agent. Since they interact with the home-buying public on a regular basis, they’ll have a better idea of what exactly potential home buyers are looking for in a new home. Once you decide on which particular bathroom renovations you’d like to complete, get in touch with a contractor. If you don’t know where to find a contractor, ask a friend or neighbor who has recently gone through a renovation for a recommendation or read our article on how to find the perfect contractor.