A major bathroom remodel isn’t necessary to add value to your home. The national average for a shower or tub remodel is in the $1,500-$5,000 range and provides a healthy ROI. The shower and tub are focal points for the bathroom and might be a wise investment, but there are easier and less expensive ways that also add value. Consulting with your seller’s agent from Heney Realtors will help when choosing what remodeling projects will provide the best ROI. But you can start remodeling today, without digging deep. Here are some inexpensive and easy ways to add value to your bathrooms.
$500 or Less
Paint: A fresh coat of paint is recommended for all the rooms of your home. When painting your bathroom you can choose a pastel mint green to provide a spa-like experience or any number of tasteful light pastel options. Light blue is one of the most popular and rewarding choices. A 2021 study by Zillow determined buyers would increase their offering price by 1.6% on a home with light blue bathrooms. That works out to a $5,600 increase on a $350,000 home. Start painting! A gallon of paint will cost around $40 and cover 400 square feet. Depending on the size of your bathroom a gallon may be all you need to complete the project.
New Fixtures and Hardware: You don’t have to replace the entire vanity. Swapping out old outdated faucets and cabinet knobs will add value. Satin nickel and brushed nickel are popular finishes and pair well with light pastel colors when giving your bathroom a fresh coat of paint. The cost to replace a faucet is nominal, with the average being in the $150-$400 range. And don’t forget the shower head. There are many highly efficient low flow options to choose from: attractive designs that present a spa-like experience for the user. You can take on the project yourself and save a little, or put a little money back into the local economy by hiring a professional.
Lighting: Depending on the age of your home, the fixtures are probably outdated. You can add a little class with new lighting fixtures. The national average for a bathroom lighting fixture is $185 per unit. Choose the same finish when purchasing new fixtures and hardware for an appealing and balanced look.
New Toilets: The energy efficient toilets of the 21st century use less than 1.28 gallons per flush! If you have a home built before 1994 your toilet is likely using 3.5 gallons or more per flush. The national average to purchase and install a new toilet is a mere $372. It’s best to check with your seller’s agent when making energy-efficient upgrades, as interest is dependent on local markets, but this is an inexpensive upgrade that potential buyers will certainly appreciate.
Sweat Equity
Clean, Clean, Clean: You will need to clean your entire home thoroughly when getting ready to sell. The bathroom needs a very deep clean. Clean it from top to bottom and polish everything until it shines (clean brushed nickel and satin nickel surfaces following the manufacturer's recommendations). Get those grout lines looking like new. Depending on the age of your home you might be best advised to have your shower tile regrouted. The cost to regrout a shower is in the $600-$1,750 range.
Universal Design
Shower & Tub: If you do decide to upgrade a tub or shower, keep in mind that older adults and those with mobility issues would benefit from a walk-in shower or walk-in tub. A spacious walk-in shower for two will also attract anyone looking for a luxurious spa-like experience in their new home.
Heney Realtors is Montpelier Vermont’s Premier Independent Real Estate Brokerage. We have been serving Central Vermont since 1956. We recognize that every town is unique and every market is different. When choosing to work with us you are choosing a team who knows the Vermont market and the best way to sell your home. Contact us today!