Visual and Financial Impact: Bathroom Remodels that Drive Value

An average bathroom remodel costs around $10,000. However, it's possible to budget a remodel, with plenty of return on investment, for as little as $3,500. In fact, a bathroom remodel can produce some of the highest home-resale value, making it an especially popular place to upgrade among those looking to put their house on the market. If this sounds like you, start listing the alterations and improvements you want to make, pricing them, and talking with contractors (unless you plan to make this  DIY project). Once you have the basics mapped out, you will be able to use the following tips to ensure your bathroom remodel upgrades drive the most value possible.

Budgeting

If your aim is to focus on budget items that make a real difference in your bathroom—but won't necessarily cost you a lot of money—start by thinking through which changes make sense from a personal style standpoint, as well as from a budgetary perspective. The idea is to balance visual impact with financial good sense. If you're looking to inject some color and personality, you may want to accent the space with colored tile. Tiling an entire bathroom can be very expensive. Consider using tile as an accent, something to be installed around the sink or bathtub only, and color-coordinate with grout for maximum effect.

Switching out light fixtures is another cost-friendly way to upgrade without overspending. Try changing to a modern minimalist look if you're looking for something new and different. This concept can be applied to bathtub and sink fixtures by using a lever-style rather than traditional knob design. Real estate agents insist a fresh coat of paint is the best way to earn ROI while revitalizing a home's look. If your current wall treatments are a little too institutional, make the space really pop with a bold new color, such as a vibrant shade of teal, copper, or even neon yellow. Bear in mind that you can do something more ambitious, such as installing a new bathtub, toilet or sink for under $1,000 each. High-quality frameless shower doors generally cost between $700 and $1,200, though this upgrade can sometimes cost considerably more.

Counter tops

Many Americans are opting for a more expensive countertop material, such as granite, since it's for a smaller space and costs less to install. Consider a broad range of colors, taking into account the highly popular earth tones of beige, brown and tan tend to be more expensive. If you're into a renovation that's a little "out there"—something that will be as much a conversation piece as utilitarian feature—why not install an old clothing dresser as a sink pedestal? It's easier than it sounds; just cut out the top of the dresser for a sink, remove drawers as needed, and cut holes in the back panel to accommodate the plumbing. It's fun and makes a great DIY project that can earn considerable ROI.

Grout and caulk

It can be easy to overlook something as simple as the grout and caulking in the bathroom, especially when it gets dirty and worn down. But it's surprising how much light and color is created by replacing grout and caulk. Not only is it a visually beneficial improvement, but it's also a healthy upgrade, since caulk that's covered by mold and mildew represents the threat of infection and can lead to poor pulmonary health. Best of all, it's something you can easily do yourself, though it's important to do so carefully. Consult a YouTube instructional video if you need a little help getting started.

A great deal of your home's value is tied up in its bathrooms, so it makes sense to upgrade in ways that offer high ROI and allow you to boost sales price. With care and careful planning, it's possible to do this without blowing up your budget and going deep into debt. 

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