A bathroom update can be one of the most expensive changes you can make to your home. However, it can also add the most value. If you want to reap the benefits of an upgraded bathroom but find yourself questioning the financial viability of such an investment, then it’s only natural that you should consider your less pricey options. Should you redecorate, or remodel, your bathroom? Here are some things to think about:
Making a Huge Impact with some Smaller Changes.
You might be pleasantly surprised at how dramatic a change you can make to your bathroom space with some simple redecoration. If you need convincing, try giving your walls a new coat of paint. Some other minor redecorating projects that can make a major difference include reframing the mirrors, installing new lighting, laying tile floors, equipping your cabinets and drawers with new knobs and pulls, refinishing your cabinets, and changing out the faucet fixtures.
Going All the Way.
Of course, there’s no way around remodeling if you want or need to change the structure or layout of your bathroom. Some examples of common bathroom remodeling jobs include bathtub and/or shower installation, laying in a sunlight, raising the ceiling, moving (or removing) walls, changing/moving the plumbing, and installing new windows. It is likely that, unless you are a building contractor, taking on any of these major projects will require that you hire a professional and take out the proper permits.
Getting your Money’s Worth.
While you and your family will benefit from a bathroom remodel primarily, it’s important that you consider the big picture before you fork out the big bucks for such a change. You should expect that your home’s value will go up accordingly with the amount of money you spend; however, when it comes down to it, the real estate market must support the kind of upgrade you want to make. You need to speak with an experienced realtor in your area to determine if the renovations you plan for will actually result in a home that can ultimately sell for a price that is reflective of your investment.
The Best of Both Worlds.
It is advisable that you sit down and take inventory of the things you most want out of your bathroom update. It’s likely that through this process you can devise a plan that involves a little bit of redecorating and a little bit of remodeling. Decide what’s most important to you and work around that. For example, if what you really want more than anything is a new claw foot bathtub, then you can devote the majority of your budget to that big ticket item, and then dedicate more of your budget to less expensive redecorating projects (like new paint, for example).
You have a lot of options when it comes to giving your bathroom a new look and feel. When it comes to choosing between remodeling and redecorating, chances are your ideal bathroom update will involve some of each.