Easy bathroom budget renovations that add value
Posted on : Wednesday, 31st August 2016
GIVING a fresh new look to an outdated bathroom can modernise and add value to a home without costing much.
Sometimes all a bathroom needs is modern fixtures, a tile and grout scrub and a fresh coat of paint to transform it into a new space.
This is according to Adrian Goslett, Regional Director and CEO of RE/MAX of Southern Africa, who says renovations and contemporary remodelling of bathrooms are known to boost the marketability of a home and, in addition, bathrooms and kitchens are the two areas of a home where the cost of the renovation can be largely recouped on the sale of the property.
Goslett says according to statistics, on average, sellers can expect to get between 65% and 75% of the renovation cost back when renovating a full bathroom and approximately 65% of the cost back when adding a new bathroom.
Over the past few years bathroom renovations have become popular, with many homeowners opting to renovate their bathrooms before any other room in the home.
“This can be attributed to the fact that bathrooms and kitchens are major focal points that buyers look at before they put in an offer to purchase a property.
“Additionally, bathrooms are generally smaller than other rooms in the home, so the cost of renovation can be managed more effectively.”
While it is a good idea to use a professional contractor with the necessary qualifications for larger complex projects, homeowners will be able to complete simple updates themselves. Depending on the project, Goslett says a simple renovation can be as effective as a complete remodel.
Sanitary warehouses and hardware stores are always getting new inventory, which means it is easy for homeowners to find fixtures on sale that will suit their particular taste.
He says sometimes all that a bathroom needs is modern fixtures, a tile and grout scrub and a fresh coat of paint to transform it into a completely new space.
Sanitary warehouses and hardware stores are always getting new inventory, which means it is easy for homeowners to find fixtures on sale that will suit their particular taste.
It might be a matter of merely changing the tap fixtures or perhaps a bath tub.
Consider changing to a double sink instead of a single one, recessed lighting or new floor and wall tiles.
According to Goslett, homeowners who are looking to do the renovations themselves can find a wealth of information on bathroom DIY projects from the local library, bookstores and online.
There are countless books and reputable websites available that can help guide homeowners through the process, whether the primary focus is design, functionality or cost. Homeowners can check whether their local hardware store has do-it-yourself classes or seminars that they can attend, which will provide guidance and practical examples.
Consider changing to a double sink instead of a single one, recessed lighting or new floor and wall tiles.
Goslett says DIY projects are a great way to add value to a home, provided the work is completed properly.
If installed or completed incorrectly, the project could end up costing twice as much to fix as a professional would have charged in the first place.
Goslett says homeowners who are planning on undergoing an extensive renovation project or adding another bathroom to their home should get proper plans drawn up. He adds if contractors are called in to do any work on the home and require the plans, keep the originals and give them copies.
While renovating a bathroom may cause some inconvenience, this is a small price to pay when compared to the aesthetic appeal and value that it adds to the property, he says.
