With many homeowners opting to stay in their existing homes rather than move, updating your home living spaces may be on your mind. When you think of remodeling an existing room in your home to improve your lifestyle, what comes to mind? You may think of the kitchen or living areas, which are both central to home life. Before you decide where to put your remodeling dollars, consider the state of your bathrooms. If they have seen better days, a bathroom remodel could be an ideal way to give your home a fresh start. A fresh bathroom design is also a major selling point if you do decide to move on to a new home.
According to Remodeling magazine’s annual cost vs. value report regional data for the East-North-Central region in 2019, a mid-range bathroom remodel costs on average $21,098 while an upscale remodel averages $66,499. However, a basic update to a small bathroom design or powder room can cost much less. Why do these figures vary so widely and how can you make sense of what goes into a bathroom remodel? The mid-range bathroom design is based on keeping the existing footprint and replacing all fixtures using standard models. The upscale remodel on the other hand includes expanding and altering the footprint (perhaps by moving a wall to extend the available space), relocating fixtures, adding extra features and installing high end fixtures throughout.
Here are several factors to consider that may impact your overall cost:
The size and type of bathroom.
While most homes only have one kitchen, we typically have multiple bathrooms. The cost of a bathroom remodel will vary greatly depending on whether it is a small powder room vs. your master bathroom design. The price will also fluctuate depending on the size of your space. Not every master bathroom design is the same, and a larger one will naturally require more tile or possibly a larger vanity, both a tub and shower, and two sinks.
Partial vs. complete renovation.
Look around your bathroom and decide what works and what does not. If it all needs replacing, then it is time to rip out everything and start fresh. If, however, your bathtub or toilet is still good as new, but your vanity, sinks, faucets, or other fixtures need replacing, then you may be able to minimize costs by retaining some items. Just remember that sometimes replacing one item makes the other parts of the room seem dated, so make sure you are happy to keep any fixtures in your new bathroom design. Also, consider the impact new products will have on your bathroom layout. If you are going for a larger or different shaped vanity cabinet, make sure it will still fit with your existing footprint.
Remodeling for yourself vs. for resale value.
Is your end goal to get a new bathroom design that you will use for years to come, or a basic bathroom remodel intended to make it more attractive for resale? If you plan to stay in your home, it is worthwhile to maximize your budget to get the bathroom you love that will enhance your life for years to come. If, however, you are updating to improve resale value change only those elements that really need it. Use a neutral color palette and classic style, since potential buyers may not share your love of turquoise or ultra-modern fixtures! Look at homes for sale in your area to see what features are popular or talk to a local real estate agent for advice.
What do you want to spend?
While this may sound obvious, when it comes to a bathroom remodel you can spend as much or as little as you want. However, you will get what you pay for, so remember that a limited budget will not get you a complete overhaul with top of the range luxury features. Decide how much you are able and willing to spend and determine what features you really want to change in your bathroom. Then prioritize your requirements to help focus your budget dollars.
Work with an experienced bathroom design professional to make sure you get the most out of your available budget. A design expert will help you achieve the design that meets your needs and navigate product choices to find ones that fit your style and budget. Most importantly, their experience in planning and implementing a bathroom remodel means you will not have unexpected issues arise that can have a costly impact on your overall budget.
Staying power.
If you want to maximize the value of your budget, choose a style and color scheme with staying power. The last thing you want is to choose tile in a trendy color, only to tire of it next year. Bold colors are fine, but make sure you include either colors you will be happy with long-term or incorporate colors in small accessories that are more easily replaced. Also, while you may be tempted to cut your budget by selecting cheaper products, you often pay for these choices in the long run. Choose the best products you can afford within your budget and you will thank yourself when they last longer.
Need advice on how to budget for a bathroom remodel? Our experts are ready to help you with your bathroom design, product selection, and budgeting process. Get inspired in our gallery and then contact us to get started!
