Whether you’re actively considering selling your home or are enhancing it for future resale value, bathroom renovations can pay some of the highest investment returns.Those returns come with a (relatively) high price tag. The average cost of a bathroom remodel comes in at $10,237, but if you’re particularly handy, you can lower that cost by doing the work yourself.Before you smash that tile and disconnect the water main, here are five tips to make sure this renovation (and your investment) doesn’t go down the drain.
- Have a Back-Up Bathroom
Renovations of any kind are notorious for taking longer than expected, so it’s vital that you prepare for the very real possibility that you’ll be without a shower and toilet for an extended period of time. Luckily, there’s an easy solution: Rent a porta potty. But, not the one you’re your thinking of that you see at public parks or construction sites. Find one that will be comfortable enough to replace your home bathroom for a while, since you may be using this for weeks. We recommend a restroom trailer, which features two private bathing rooms, each with a changing area, toilet, sink, and shower stall.
- Avoid Moving Your Plumbing
Unless there is a major conflict or issue with the placement of your current plumbing, relocating your tub and sink may be more trouble than it’s worth. If you’re unfamiliar with this type of work, you run the risk of removing and installing it incorrectly, or take on the financial burden of hiring a professional to do it for you.
- Install Your Hardware First
Resist the urge to skip the basics so you can put up that trendy subway tile and gorgeous new lighting you bought—this will only cause heartbreak if the piping is in the wrong position. Instead, choose and install your bath, sink, toilet, and furniture first to ensure no costly alterations need to be made.
- Make It Pop
If you can’t afford to splurge on expensive tile for the whole room, minimize your usage and instead complement it with the right paint selection. If you are remodeling with resale in mind, keep your color scheme muted and neutral so it doesn’t overwhelm potential buyers. It’s also important that you use paint that protects from humidity and moisture.
- Make It Efficient
Not only does energy efficiency benefit you and the environment, it’s a must for today’s homebuyer. Don’t give them a reason to pass on your home—install high efficiency shower heads and toilets, low flow toilets, and LED light fixtures to turn your “green” bathroom into green profits.
Now you’re ready to begin your renovation!