Do you want to increase your home’s value? A bathroom project might be the answer. A bathroom remodels, or addition can boost your home’s value by 10% to 40%. But how do you know how much your bathroom project will add to your home value? And how do you plan and execute a successful bathroom project?
This article will answer these questions and more. We will cover:
- The factors that influence how much a bathroom adds to home value
- The best practices for a successful bathroom project
- Some examples of bathroom projects that have boosted the home value
Factors That Influence How Much Bathroom Adds to Home Value
The value of a bathroom project depends on various factors, such as:
- The location of your home
- The size and layout of your bathroom
- The materials and fixtures you use
- The design and style you choose
- The quality and professionalism of the work
Location of Your Home
The location of your home affects the value of your bathroom project in two ways:
- It influences the demand and expectations of potential buyers
- It affects the cost and returns on investment of different types of bathroom projects
For example, if you live in an area where bathrooms are scarce or outdated, adding or remodeling a bathroom can make your home more attractive and competitive.
On the other hand, if you live in an area with abundant or luxurious bathrooms, adding or remodeling a bathroom may not have as much impact.
Similarly, if you live where labor and materials are expensive, your bathroom project may cost more than in an area where they are cheaper. This can affect your project’s return on investment (ROI), the percentage of the cost you can recoup at resale.
According to Remodeling Magazine’s 2023 Cost vs. Value Report, the average ROI for a midrange bathroom remodel in the US is 54%, while the average ROI for an upscale bathroom remodel is 55%. However, these numbers vary by region.
For example, in the Pacific region (Alaska, California, Hawaii, Oregon, and Washington), the average ROI for a midrange bathroom remodel is 67%. The average ROI for an upscale bathroom remodel is 61%. In contrast, in the East South Central region (Alabama, Kentucky, Mississippi, Tennessee), the average ROI for a midrange bathroom remodel is 41%. The average ROI for an upscale bathroom remodel is 45%.
It’s important to research your local market and trends before deciding on your bathroom project. You can use online tools like Zillow or HomeAdvisor to estimate how much your project will cost and how much it will add to your home value.
Size and Layout of Your Bathroom
The size and layout of your bathroom also affect the value of your project. Generally, bigger, more spacious bathrooms add value to smaller, cramped ones.
However, this doesn’t mean that you have to add square footage to your bathroom to increase its value. You can also optimize the existing space by using smart design solutions.
For example, you can use wall-mounted, or pedestal sinks to free up floor space or use sliding or pocket doors to save space. You can also use mirrors, glass, and light colors to create an illusion of more space. You can also rearrange the fixtures to create a more functional and efficient layout.
Another factor to consider is the bathroom type you want to add. A full bathroom (with a sink, toilet, tub, and shower) can add more value than a half-bathroom (just a sink and toilet), especially if your home has more bedrooms than bathrooms.
According to a study by the National Association of Home Builders, adding a full bathroom can increase your home’s value by 20%, while adding a half-bathroom can increase it by 10.5%.
However, this doesn’t mean that you have to add a full bathroom to every bedroom. You have to balance the cost and benefit of adding a bathroom and consider the needs and preferences of your target buyers.
For example, if you have a small home with limited space, adding a half-bathroom may be more practical and economical than adding a full bathroom.
On the other hand, if you have a large home with ample space, adding a full bathroom may be more desirable and profitable than adding a half-bathroom.
Materials and Fixtures You Use
The materials and fixtures you use for your bathroom project also affect its value. Higher-quality and more durable materials and fixtures can add more value than cheaper and less reliable ones. However, this doesn’t mean that you have to splurge on the most expensive materials and fixtures available. You must choose the ones that suit your budget, style, and functionality.
For example, you can choose ceramic or porcelain tiles for your flooring and walls, as they are water-resistant, easy to clean, and come in various colors and patterns. You can also choose granite or quartz countertops for your vanity, which are durable, stain-resistant, and elegant. You can also choose stainless steel or chrome faucets and showerheads, which are corrosion-resistant, shiny, and modern.
However, you don’t have to use the same materials and fixtures for every part of your bathroom. Mix and match different materials and fixtures to create contrast and interest. For example, you can use wood or laminate for your cabinets or shelves, as they are warm, cozy, and affordable. You can also use brass or bronze for your hardware or accessories, as they are antique, classy, and charming.
The key is to choose materials and fixtures that complement each other and create a cohesive look for your bathroom. You can also use online tools like BuildDirect or Lowe’s to help you find and buy quality materials for your bathroom project.
Design and Style You Choose
The design and style you choose for your bathroom project also affect its value. Modern and trendy designs can add more value than outdated and boring ones.
However, this doesn’t mean you must blindly follow the latest fads and fashions. You must choose a design and style that reflects your personality, taste, and lifestyle.
For example, you can choose a minimalist design for your bathroom if you like simplicity, clarity, and functionality. Use neutral colors, clean lines, and geometric shapes to create a sleek, sophisticated look.
Alternatively, opt for a rustic design with warmth, coziness, and nature. Embrace natural materials, earthy colors, and organic shapes for a cozy, inviting ambiance.
However, you don’t have to stick to one design or style for your entire bathroom. Mix and match different designs and styles to create contrast and interest.
For example, you can use industrial elements like metal pipes or exposed bricks for your walls or shelves and pair them with vintage elements like clawfoot tubs or pedestal sinks for your fixtures.
You can also use eclectic elements like colorful tiles or quirky art for your accents or accessories and pair them with classic elements like white subway tiles or marble countertops for your background.
The key is to choose a design and style that suits your preferences and needs and matches the overall theme of your home.
You can also use online tools like HGTV or Better Homes & Gardens to get inspiration and ideas for your bathroom project.
Quality and Professionalism of the Work
The quality and professionalism of the work done for your bathroom project also affect its value. Well-done and flawless work can add more value than sloppy and faulty work.
However, this doesn’t mean you must do everything yourself or hire the most expensive contractor. Before starting your bathroom project, you must research, plan, and hire a reputable, experienced contractor who can deliver quality workmanship and avoid potential problems.
For example, you can do online research to determine the average cost and duration of different bathroom projects, the best practices and tips for a successful bathroom remodel or addition, and the common mistakes and pitfalls to avoid.
You can also ask for recommendations from friends, family, or neighbors who have done similar projects. You can also check online reviews, references, portfolios, and quotes from different contractors before hiring them.
Before hiring, you should also check their license, insurance, and warranty policies. You can use online tools like Angie’s List or Thumbtack to help you find and hire a reliable contractor for your bathroom project.
Best Practices for a Successful Bathroom Project
Now that you know the factors that influence how much a bathroom adds to home value, you might be wondering how to plan and execute a successful bathroom project.
Here are some tips and suggestions that can help you achieve the best results:
- Plan ahead
- Hire a reputable contractor
- Choose durable and water-resistant materials
- Optimize the lighting and ventilation
- Match the style and color scheme of your home
Plan Ahead
Planning is crucial for a successful bathroom project. Before starting the work, you should decide on the type, size, layout, design, style, materials, and fixtures of your new or improved bathroom. You should also set a realistic timeline and budget for your project and stick to them as much as possible.
Planning can help you save time, money, and hassle by avoiding unnecessary changes, delays, or mistakes during work. It can also help you achieve your desired outcome by ensuring everything is aligned with your vision and goal.
You can use online tools like HomeZada or HomeAdvisor to help you plan and manage your bathroom project.
Hire a Reputable Contractor
Hiring a reputable contractor is essential for a successful bathroom project. A trustworthy and experienced contractor can help you ensure quality workmanship and avoid potential problems.
You should research and compare different contractors based on their credentials, reviews, references, portfolios, and quotes. Before hiring, you should also check their license, insurance, and warranty policies.
Hiring a reputable contractor can help you save money and time by avoiding costly mistakes, delays, or disputes during the work. It can also help you achieve your desired outcome by ensuring everything is done according to your specifications and expectations.
You can use online tools like Angie’s List or Thumbtack to help you find and hire a reliable contractor for your bathroom project.
Choose Durable and Water-Resistant Materials
Choosing durable and water-resistant materials is important for a successful bathroom project. Materials that withstand moisture and wear and tear can help maintain your bathroom’s condition and value.
You should choose materials that are easy to clean, repair, and replace if needed. You should also choose materials that are eco-friendly, energy-efficient, and safe for your health.
Choosing durable and water-resistant materials can help you save money and hassle by avoiding frequent repairs or replacements during or after work. It can also help you enhance your bathroom’s appearance and comfort by ensuring everything is in good shape and function.
You can use online tools like BuildDirect or Lowe’s to help you find and buy quality materials for your bathroom project.
Optimize the Lighting and Ventilation
Optimizing the lighting and ventilation is crucial for a successful bathroom project. Lighting and ventilation can help you enhance your bathroom’s appearance and comfort.
You should choose lighting fixtures that are bright, adjustable, and flattering for your bathroom. You should also choose ventilation systems that are quiet, powerful, and moisture-resistant for your bathroom.
Optimizing lighting and ventilation can help you save energy and money by reducing the need for artificial lighting or heating during the day or night. It can also help you improve your bathroom’s health and hygiene by preventing mold, mildew, or odors from developing.
You can use online tools like Lamps Plus or The Home Depot to help you find and buy suitable lighting and ventilation products for your bathroom project.
Match the Style and Color Scheme of Your Home
Matching your home’s style and color scheme is vital for a successful bathroom project. Style and color schemes can help create a cohesive and attractive look for your home.
You should choose a design and style that reflects your personality, taste, and lifestyle but also matches the overall theme of your home. You should also choose a color scheme that is pleasing, relaxing, and complementary to your bathroom.
Matching your home’s style and color scheme can help you increase your home’s appeal and value by creating a harmonious and consistent look. It can also help you enhance your bathroom’s mood and atmosphere by creating a pleasant and inviting feel.
You can use online tools like Houzz or Pinterest to help you get inspiration and ideas for your bathroom project.
Examples of Bathroom Projects That Have Boosted Home Value
If you need some inspiration or motivation for your bathroom project, here are some examples of real-life bathroom projects that have increased home value:
Full Bathroom Addition: A Luxurious Master Suite with a 40% Value Boost
A full bathroom addition added 40% to the home’s value by creating an extra bedroom suite with a sink, toilet, tub, and shower. The homeowners converted an unused attic space into a spacious, luxurious master suite with a modern design and high-end materials.
The new bathroom featured a double vanity with granite countertops, a whirlpool tub with jets, a separate shower with glass doors and body sprays, and heated floors with tile flooring.
The new bathroom also had skylights, recessed lighting, and a vent fan with a heater. The project cost was $120,000, and the added value was $168,000.
Midrange Bathroom Remodel: A Cost-Effective Update with a 54% Return
A midrange bathroom remodel that recouped 54% of the cost at resale by updating the sink, toilet, tub, shower, flooring, lighting, and paint. The homeowners replaced the old and worn-out fixtures and materials with new and improved ones that matched their homes’ style and color scheme.
The new bathroom featured a ceramic tile floor, a porcelain-on-steel tub with a ceramic tile surround, a single-lever shower control, a solid-surface vanity top with an integrated sink, a recessed medicine cabinet with a light bar, a low-flush toilet, and chrome faucets and towel bars. The project cost was $27,000, and the recouped value was $14,580.
Upscale Bathroom Remodel: A Spa-Like Retreat with a 55% Recoupment
An upscale bathroom remodel that recouped 55% of the cost at resale by adding a double vanity, a whirlpool tub, a separate shower with body sprays, heated floors, custom cabinets, and granite countertops.
The homeowners expanded their bathroom by 100 square feet to create a spa-like retreat with a contemporary design and premium materials. The new bathroom featured a heated towel bar, a frameless glass shower enclosure, a thermostatic shower valve, a stone accent wall, a skylight, and a bidet. The project cost was $83,000, and the recouped value was $45,650.
You can see the before-and-after these projects in the following table:
| Project | Before | After |
|---|---|---|
| Full bathroom addition | [Attic space] | [Master suite] |
| Midrange bathroom remodel | [Old bathroom] | [New bathroom] |
| Upscale bathroom remodel | [Small bathroom] | [Large bathroom] |
These examples show how a bathroom project can increase your home’s value. Of course, your results may vary depending on your specific situation and preferences.
But with some planning, research, and creativity, you can achieve your bathroom project success story.
Conclusion
In this article, we have learned how much a bathroom adds to home value and how to plan and execute a successful bathroom project. We have covered:
- The factors that influence how much a bathroom adds to home value, such as the location of your home, the size and layout of your bathroom, the materials and fixtures you use, the design and style you choose, and the quality and professionalism of the work
- The best practices for a successful bathroom project, such as planning ahead, hiring a reputable contractor, choosing durable and water-resistant materials, optimizing the lighting and ventilation, and matching the style and color scheme of your home
- Some examples of bathroom projects that have boosted home value, such as a full bathroom addition that added 40% to the home’s value, a midrange bathroom remodel that recouped 54% of the cost at resale, and an upscale bathroom remodel that recouped 55% of the cost at resale
I hope this article has been helpful and informative for you.
FAQ
A bathroom remodel can cost anywhere from $12,000 to $90,000, depending on the project’s size, scope, and quality.
According to Remodeling magazine’s Cost vs. Value report, a bathroom remodel can add about 53-58% of the cost to your home value.
The ideal number of bathrooms depends on the size and layout of your house, as well as your personal preferences and needs. However, most buyers prefer at least two full bathrooms in a house.
Some low-cost ways to improve your bathroom are painting the walls, updating fixtures, adding crown molding, installing shelves, and recaulking the tub and tiles.
Some features that buyers look for in a bathroom are natural light, ventilation, storage space, neutral colors, modern fixtures, and quality materials.
