Remodeling the bathroom is a big project. However, it offers plenty of possibilities for homeowners looking to create value in their property. Not only that, but you get a great new space to enjoy, so there’s nothing to lose. Of course, some renovations will add more value than others. In this guide, we’ll look at eight projects that should be on every list.
Before we do that, though, let’s go over how to improve the return on investment (ROI) on your bathroom remodel so that you can maximize your project in every way possible.
How to Improve Your Bathroom Remodel ROI?
Your bathroom remodel ROI is the amount of money you get in return for what you spend. For example, if you spend $25,000 on a bathroom renovation and it gets you an increase of $15,000, your ROI is 60%. That’s the average in the U.S. right now (expected 60% ROI).
How can you improve yours? Here are a few pointers:
- Talk to a Real Estate Agent: Your local realtor will know everything about market values, home improvements, and which bathroom essentials and design features are trending in your area.
- Prioritize Repairs: Repairs should always be prioritized over cosmetic issues if you’re trying to improve your ROI. Cosmetic upgrades are great, but function is essential in the bathroom.
- Keep Your Design Neutral: Everyone has different tastes. If you are going to live in your home forever and aren’t worried about value, a unique, eclectic bathroom could be ideal. However, if you’re looking for resale and property value, neutral colors and designs are always the best choice.
- Focus On DIY and Low Cost Upgrades: There are a lot of smaller ways that you can make changes and get a big return. Something as simple as bathroom organization can make a space look cleaner and more appealing and can sway a buyer’s opinion more than you might realize. Research DIY and budget-friendly bathroom upgrades to see what fits your project.
Related: Tips for Hiring a Bathroom Remodeling Contractor
60 Inch Blue Double Sink Wall Mounted Bathroom Vanity
Top Bathroom Remodel Projects That Add the Most Value
Now that you have a better idea of what you’re looking for in terms of ROI, here are the essential upgrades for your bathroom remodel.
Vanities, Mirrors, and Counters
Vanities, mirrors, and counters are the first places to look for simple upgrades that can greatly impact your home’s value. Even modernizing the vanity and mirror alone will do wonders if you’re on a limited budget and timeline. However, this should be just the start of your renovation.
If you’re looking to upgrade your bathroom vanity mirror, you will find that there are plenty of different options to choose from today. There are traditional, modern, and even totally unique designs that will accent your vanity and create a great focal point for any space.
Balkan Modern Gold Wall Rectangular Mirror
A vanity usually includes a counter and a sink, although some will let you pick and choose your own. The prefab vanity is a great way to get an affordable upgrade with one purchase. You get a new vanity and a sink and can even find mirrors and medicine cabinets to go with your design.
Counter upgrades also get a lot of attention. Upgrading from basic materials to marble, granite, or travertine can make a big impression. Plus, bathroom counters are smaller, so even premium materials aren’t going to cost a fortune.
Related: Bathroom Vanity and Sink Buying Guide
60 Inch Double Sink Bathroom Vanity in Walnut with Electrical Component
Lighting
Bathroom lighting upgrades are another affordable option. Consider changing the current lighting to improve its function and style. You have plenty of options in the bathroom, starting with the main lights. Soothing warm lights will be better than stark bulbs, and a dimmer could be a great way to create ambiance for those relaxing baths.
Choose pendant lighting or another unique style of vanity lighting to create a finish that accents your space perfectly. You can also add accent lights such as wall sconces, extra vanity lights, etc. Add a light in the shower if you want to take things up a notch. This lends to both style and safety.
Related: What Makes A Good Chandelier?
Campester 1 Light Watered Glass Mini Pendant
Upgrade to a Walk-In Shower
If you’ve got one of those tried-and-true budget and space-friendly tub/shower combination units, get rid of it. You’re far more likely to get value from a walk-in shower with updated fixtures and features like a bench seat or glass surround with matching hardware. A walk-in shower is much more desirable than a combination unit or bathtub.
The exception is if you’re outfitting the master bath and want to include a walk-in shower and a separate bathtub for soaking and relaxing. People aren’t always looking for bathtubs, but they’re always looking for a high-quality, modern shower that offers all the luxuries of a hotel right at home.
If you’ve got more than one bathroom in the home, it’s even easier to omit the tub in the main bathroom in favor of a modern, upgraded walk-in shower. Choose glass surrounds to keep the space open, or consider a corner unit to save space. The options are nearly endless, and it will greatly impact how much return you get on your investment.
Photo by Corr Contemporary Homes
New Flooring
Again, flooring in the bathroom is usually an affordable upgrade. Even if you choose premium tiles and materials, there’s only so much space to cover. Therefore, you can often get higher-quality materials here than in other areas of the home. Choose stylish marble or stone tile floors for an upscale finish. Make sure that you stick with colors that lend to your design.
If you want to enhance the look of the space or embrace modern trends, consider installing oversized tiles. Trying to create a unique design? Consider an intricate finish with smaller mosaic or stone tiles. Whatever you choose, make sure that it’s something other buyers are looking for (i.e., laminate floors are outdated and off the list).
Add a Double Vanity
If you have the space in the bathroom, adding a double vanity will more than double your return on your investment. People like functional spaces and most families have multiple people competing for bathroom space. This is especially a good decision in master bathrooms and Jack and Jill bathrooms where people will share the space.
However, even a longer single vanity can also make a statement and provide you with the counter space you need. However, 60 to 84 inches bathroom vanities leave ample room for two sinks and tons of counter space. If you still want to save space, consider a narrow depth vanity or floating vanity, which allows you to get the width without taking up as much space in the room.
Twin sinks are the selling point here, so add them if possible.
Related: Picking The Right Color Vanity To Go With Your Gray Walls
72 Inch Double Sink Bathroom Vanity in White with Electrical Component
Accessibility Upgrades
Accessibility is another area where you can gain big value. Today’s homeowners are looking for homes where they can age in place and not have to rely on assisted living facilities just because their mobility is hampered or limited at some point. Accessibility upgrades include:
- Floating vanities and counters with room for wheelchairs and other accessibility aids.
- A safety tub or shower that makes getting in and out easy.
- A seamless tub or shower for easy entry and exit.
- Shower seats for safety and comfort.
- Pedestal sinks for easier access.
- Custom sink and counter heights.
- Pocket doors to eliminate clearance issues.
- Widened doorways and pathways (32 inches at minimum).
These are just a few examples of how you can add accessibility to your bathroom renovation to enjoy it for many more years and know you’ll get your money’s worth when you decide to sell.
60 Inch Blue Double Sink Wall Mounted Bathroom Vanity
Skylights Instead of Windows
If you want to modernize your bathroom and get a great return on your investment, a skylight is a must-have upgrade. Skylights offer that natural light but from a much better angle for bathroom needs. Plus, they still give you privacy, so there’s no compromise as there might be with windows.
A skylight should be installed by someone who knows what they’re doing. Find a local professional to help you choose a style that fits or design a custom skylight. You might be surprised how much you can increase the natural light and eliminate that pesky window.
Related: 2023 Color Trends For Kitchen And Bath
Photo by Steinberg Custom Designs
Upgrade Your Toilet
Too often, the toilet gets overlooked in a bathroom remodel. It’s seen as merely functional, so the details rarely matter as long as it matches the color scheme. However, there’s a lot that you can do to the value of your bathroom remodel by getting a nicer toilet.
Options include toilets that have low-flow and other water-saving features, as well as toilets that double as bidets or that can even have a hidden tank to save space and add style. If you’re not an expert in toilets, talk to someone who is and find out the best toilets for your project.
One Piece Dual Flush Toilet with Soft Close Seat
Final Thoughts
As you can see, bathroom remodeling gives you a lot of opportunities to make changes, big and small, no matter your budget. If you’re trying to make a space that will give you the biggest ROI, these are the things that you need to consider. It’s also helpful to let your bathroom renovation team know that you’re looking for better values and ROI in your design choices so that they can assist you in creating the perfect new bathroom space.
Related: Mirror Buying Guide for Your Entire Home
Resources
https://www.bhg.com/bathroom/remodeling/planning/bathroom-remodeling-ideas-add-home-value/
https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/bathroom/high-value-bathroom-renovations/
https://www.gehmanremodeling.com/bathroom-upgrades-can-increase-homes-value/
https://www.homesandgardens.com/news/bathroom-features-that-add-value
https://www.thespruce.com/improvements-for-next-bathroom-remodel-4008849