Most buyers have a wish list in mind when they’re shopping for a home to purchase. Updated bathrooms are almost always at or near the top of that list – so having an updated bathroom can make a big difference when it comes to selling your house.
Simple Rules for a Successful Bathroom Remodel
Updating a bathroom is a relatively easy way to add value without spending a whole lot of money. Most bathrooms already have a configuration that works well. It’s just the fixtures, lighting and flooring that need updating.
My advice? Choose your vanity first and let that be your guiding light when selecting your other design elements. With all-in-one vanity sets available at most building supply stores, it’s even easier to choose a vanity than it used to be.
Pick flooring that coordinates with the vanity you choose, but steer clear of trendy materials. Just keep it simple and classic and you can’t go wrong. This is particularly true if you have an older, historic home. You want your updated bathroom to mimic what might have been in the house originally. Subway tile shower surrounds, one inch hexagon tile flooring and porcelain pedestal sinks are relatively inexpensive but always give a bathroom a classic look with broad appeal. If you’re updating a contemporary or mid-century home, you can get a little more adventurous with large format tile, wall-hung vanities and free-standing acrylic bathtubs.
Another great thing about remodeling a bathroom is that it can be relatively easy to do yourself. That said, be careful. If you aren’t comfortable with a tile saw and/or minor plumbing work, it’s best to find a handyman to help you. A professional bathroom remodel shouldn’t cost you more than $8,000, including the tub/shower, toilet and single sink vanity. The cost will obviously be less if you do the work yourself. Either way, if you follow my suggestions, you should be able to recoup your investment and then some at the time of sale.
If you have any questions about improving your house for sale, let me know. I’m happy to share my expertise.
Jeff Williams is a top-producing Realtor with Windermere Chambers Bay, specializing in residential real estate in Tacoma, Gig Harbor, University Place and Lakewood.
Jeff Williams: (253) 303-1135
JeffWilliams@windermere.com
