The bathroom is a crucial area in the house, making it one of the most popular and economical spaces for homeowners to update. Recent research revealed that, on average, a bathroom remodel added more than enough to the resale value of a property in all 50 states to more than cover the cost of the restoration.
Although it may seem like a good idea to splurge on a luxurious new bathroom, not all glitzy extras are worth the cost.
Bathroom design and real estate specialists were consulted to learn what renovations you should absolutely avoid doing if you don't want to end up paying the price for them years down the road.
Due to their ultra-luxurious aura, steam showers have left people breathless for years. But are they truly as good as advertised, and more importantly, do they justify the price tag of almost $12,000?
A steam shower is a popular, high-end home repair that doesn't pay off, says Freemodel's Christina Duffy. However, there is an exception to this rule in bigger luxury residences where steam rooms can be built. However, most people's budgets wouldn't stretch to the planning and installation costs, and the little square footage wouldn't justify it. The goal is to make the shower into a spa-like retreat from the stresses of the day.
Designing, permitting, and installing a steam shower might be more time-consuming and expensive than you anticipate.
Duffy warns that "there are plumbing adjustments you'll need to do to acquire enough water volume," as well as "potential electrical panel improvements necessary" to provide enough watts and power to operate the unit.
You should think twice before investing in a luxurious whirlpool tub. The average cost of installing a luxurious spa tub, or even a large soaking tub, is $35,000. The money may have been put to better use elsewhere.
Best Choice for Seniors CEO Graham Byers believes a Jacuzzi-style tub may be nice to relax in, but the added cost isn't justified. In order for them to function properly, "frequent maintenance" is also required.
A less expensive soaking tub is also unrealistic unless it is a top priority for you and you plan to stay in your house for quite some time.
While the average cost of a standard bathtub is roughly $700, a high-end one may cost upwards of $3,000.
It's not a good idea to spend that kind of money unless you want to remain in your house for quite some time. Following the advice of Homesthetics co-founder and architect Anton Giuroiu, a basic model with basic amenities will do the job without breaking the bank.
There are moments when you have to scratch your head and wonder what the engineers behind smart gadgets were thinking. Some of the best technology for your bathroom caters to a very specific audience, such as automatic toilets that wipe and flush after each use or smart mirrors that monitor your skin and report any changes to you (we don't want to know!).
"Outfitting your bathroom with too many high-tech gadgets might be a turnoff for future purchasers and contribute to higher electricity bills now," explains Giuroiu. The total price of all of these gadgets may mount up fast, so get only what you really need. Some things, like a programmable thermostat and LED lights, will never go out of style.
It's time to reevaluate your presumption that relocating a bathroom fixture, such as a sink, bathtub, or toilet, is a breeze. The expense to remove a sink or toilet and put it somewhere might easily reach $3,000.
Improve what you already have.
Larry Snider, a seasoned renovator and the vice president of operations at Casago Vacation Rentals in Tucson, Arizona, advises, "If your bath is currently suitable and can fit the typical person, do not waste the money on changing your bath fixture."
If your bathroom doesn't already have a window, Snider suggests replacing the showerhead or installing a window. Instead of relocating the toilet as part of a bathroom renovation, think considering installing a bidet or upgrading to a more plush toilet seat.
The expenditure typically outweighs the comfort of toasty toes when considering whether or not to install a heated floor.
Catherine Mack, co-owner of the House Buyer Network in Lewisville, TX, says, "Under-the-floor heating looks like a lovely addition to your house, but the cost of installing it may reach up to $20 per square foot, and upkeep can be similarly pricey." You won't be able to repay the cost of installation, even if you sell your house.
It is also important to think about other heat-related changes.
While heated flooring or towel racks may make your bathroom more comfortable during the winter, they don't contribute much to the home's selling value. Consider their overhead expenses as well," advises Martin Orefice, CEO of Rent to Own Labs in Orlando, Florida.
It may seem like an easy way to make a dramatic change to the look of a bathroom is to just replace the flooring. But unless you're dealing with pink tiles the color of Pepto Bismol from the 1970s, it's usually not worth your time.
According to Melanie Hartmann, the owner of Creo Home Buyers in Maryland, "tearing out old bathroom tiles is frequently a waste of money," unless you are looking at pastel-colored tiles or worse. Unless rearranging the bathroom will have an effect on the coverage area, tearing them out is a waste of effort and money.
Though certain additions add to an increase in value. We would love to hear some of your experiences on what has provided you with the greatest returns. Let us know in the comments below!