Bathroom Repair or Upgrade vs. Additions and Remodels

Bathroom Remodels Don’t Pay

Conventional wisdom is that bathroom additions or remodels will pay enormous dividends to homeowners during resale. Recent data shows that this belief is not true. In fact, the latest statistics applicable for the Cincinnati, Ohio area reveals some disappointing news for homeowners expecting to recoup the cost of bathroom additions and remodels. While it remains true that bathrooms represent a key component of a successful home sale, homeowners should instead invest their money in a bathroom repair or upgrade.

Bathroom Addition and Remodeling – Cost Versus Value

In Remodeling Magazine’s 2009-2010 Cost vs. Value Report, data for the region including Cincinnati, Ohio, reveals that the percentage of cost recouped during resale for a bathroom addition was only 50%.  Bathroom remodels fair slightly better than bathroom additions, returning approximately 60% of the cost during resale. Nevertheless, homeowners in the Cincinnati area must reevaluate the conventional wisdom of such large home improvement expenditures when considering resale value.

Why Bathroom Repairs and Upgrades Make More Financial Sense

According to the National Association of Realtors, “in preparing your home for the market, spend as little money as possible.” Instead, they recommend that homeowners, “focus on minor and inexpensive “polishes” and “touch-ups.” Consequently, consider addressing these items in the bathroom.

• Bathroom Plumbing: Inspect and repair plumbing lines and fittings. Replacing the toilet, lavatory faucet and shower head will give the bathroom a “new, clean feel” for as little as $1000.
• Bathroom Walls: Repair cracks in the bathroom’s drywall or plaster and paint the room in a neutral color.  Wall repairs along with a fresh coat of paint can cost as little as $500 and will eliminate stains or mold growth to make the room appear and smell new.
• Bath Fixtures: Match the towel racks, paper dispenser and light fixture to provide a consistent and modern décor. High quality, attractive fixtures may be purchased and installed for under $500.
• Bathroom Tile: Replace linoleum or worn wood flooring with a neutral-colored ceramic tile.  An average-sized bathroom can have floor tile installed for under $1,500. Combined with the other steps mentioned above, you will create the impression that the bathroom was recently remodeled.

Notice that the above recommendations do not require a full remodel, yet ensure they maximize the interior appeal of your home to any potential buyers. While the average bathroom remodel nationally costs an average of $16,000, a typical bathroom update with normal repairs described above may cost under $3,500. This may result in a net return on investment several times that of a full bathroom remodel!

Bathroom Repair and Upgrade:  A Great DIY Project

All of the bathroom repair and upgrade projects mentioned in this article are within the capability of the average Do-It-Yourselfer.  These bathroom projects typically do not require permits, specialized skills or expensive tools. Nor are they time consuming—each one could be completed in an afternoon or two by a DIY homeowner with average home repair skills.

Let ProMaster of Cincinnati Accomplish Your Bathroom Repair or Upgrade Project

ProMaster Home Repair & Handyman is a great choice for those who don’t have the time or inclination to perform their own bathroom repairs or upgrades. From bathroom plumbing repairs to drywall, paint or bathroom tile installation, ProMaster’s skilled team of professionals understand that attention to detail, artistry and precise craftsmanship are the keys to success in any bathroom repair or upgrade project. You can reach ProMaster at (513) 724-0539 or www.MasterMyList.com.