As families grow, more and more people are looking for bigger homes. Incidentally, buyers with big families also look for a comfortable bathroom, both in size and functionality.
Since different members of the household have different needs, a bathroom plays a big role in meeting such demands. For this reason, a bathroom adds value to a home in so many ways. So, if your property has more than one bathroom, then you are a step away from the competition.
Can an En Suite Bathroom Add Value to a Home?
Absolutely yes. Having an en suite bathroom in your home can absolutely add its value for so many reasons. An en suite bathroom gives you the privacy of using it without sharing it with others. This is also advantageous for big families with children, as an en suite can also serve as an additional bathroom when kids need to use the comfort room all at the same time.
Also, an en suite bathroom is very important for the elderly since it can specially be designed for their comfort and easy access. This avoids people with special needs and assistance to compete with the rush of using the main bathroom with the other members of the household.
Even if your space is limited, an en suite bathroom can still be installed, as long as it has enough space to fit a sink, toilet and shower comfortably. In addition, choosing a location in fitting an en suite bathroom is no longer a problem.
Installing an en suite bathroom even far away from the main pipeline is now possible. This can now be done with the help of some modern machines and appliance. You can read more information in my previous article about installing an en suite bathroom even in a small space with this link.
Do you Need to Make Renovations to Increase your Bathroom’s Value?
While major remodeling may be made, it’s not encouraged during the timeline wherein your purpose is to immediately resell your property. This is because your total renovation costs may not be instantly realized. Be reminded that your bathroom remodeling cost is only a parcel of the total price of your property. This being said, your return of investment may not totally cover your major bathroom renovation costs.
However, a minor renovation can be done to your bathroom. Clever innovations to your old bathroom can do the trick. Making your bathroom look updated and modern can make a big difference without sacrificing your budget. You just need to know what simple things can help your bathroom look current and updated, and thereby help increase its value.
What are the Things that Help Add Value to a Bathroom?
Depending on your budget, the following bathroom renovations can increase the value of an old bathroom. The following tips both cover minor and major renovations.
Minor renovations.
If you cannot make major changes in your bathroom due to time and budget constraints, there are still ways to go about it.. Simple renovations or additions to your existing bathroom can be made to made it look modern. as with the following tips below:
1. Replace old fixtures.
An old faucet usually acquired some water spots as a result of hard water in the course of time. And we all know that the calcium mineral mixed in hard water can ruin your bathroom fixtures, including your plumbing. The white scums appearing on your faucet is not only an eye sore, but also a testament to its long age use.
Also, hard water mixed with soap can damage your shower. These hard deposits may accumulate in your shower head which can ultimately clog it. In addition, your shower may have a hard time in attaining optimal water pressure.
Replacing old toilets must also be considered. Since toilets endure the heaviest burden of constant wear and tear, it needs to remain functional. And nothing beats the functionality of a new toilet which will never come near an old one. At present, there are a lot of toilets that can give you not only the best flushing performances but also boast of water efficiency.
In addition, your bathroom must have a toilet that looks presentable. However, in the course of time, old toilets can easily be spotted by the appearance of stains and discoloration. This is an exact opposite to new shiny, polished white toilets which appears clean and smooth – just like what you see in the glossy pages of a home improvement magazine.
Also, installing new countertops or toilet vanity can add a touch of a modern theme in your bathroom. This is especially so, since the counter or vanity is the first you see upon entering a bathroom so make them appealing. As they say, first impression count.
2. Embrace modern technology.
Installing fixtures and essentials in your bathroom with smart features is indeed a smart move. Compared to conventional ones, fitting sensor powered or voice activated faucets, digital showers, and most especially, smart toilets will truly increase your bathroom’s value by a mile.
3. Add/Replace bathroom appliance.
If your bathroom radiator has seen better days, it’s about time to replace a new one. Since rust cannot be avoided in a humid environment, your radiator may not be an exception. Rust problems can affect the performance of an appliance. So better decide on updating your radiator. This will give your bathroom a good impression that it is not only modern but also well-kept.
This same concept applies to other appliance you normally add in your bathroom like the towel warmer, dehumidifier, and exhaust fan.
In addition, if your exhaust fan is starting to give you more sound than air, then it’s advisable to pick a new one. Modern exhaust fans now come not only in compact designs and colors, but especially with silent motors.
4. Update with modern lightings.
Give your bathroom an updated look by installing modern lighting fixtures. Complement your bathroom with drop lights, scones, task lights, or even a small chandelier. This will not only help make your bathroom look brighter, but perfect illumination can also make it appear bigger.
5. Add functional shelves.
While your bathroom may already have existing shelves, adding some will do good in your favor. Plan where to put your additional shelving so as not to make your bathroom feel cramped. You can cleverly put it behind your door, under the basin, or even on top of your toilet. You can find more storage ideas in my previous article on how to unclutter your bathroom by clicking this link.
6. Re-paint with bright vibrant colors.
A new paint always makes a surface look fresh and clean. So, if you’re bathroom hasn’t undergone repainting for quite sometime, then it’s time that you do. While you’re at it, you can opt for brighter or neutral tones for a more appealing and relaxing effect. Plus, it will make your bathroom look brighter and your space feel bigger.
7. Make your bathroom look luxurious.
A bathroom, by any size can look luxurious by adding some fixtures and accessories that are simple and classic. Surprisingly, there are items that need not be expensive, but their unique design, material, and features make them appear luxurious. My previous article will give you a number of simple ideas to help your bathroom look luxurious without damaging your budget.
Major renovations.
If your budget permits and you have the time to undergo some main renovations, then the following upgrades can surely increase your bathroom’s value.
1. Install new tiles.
Installing new tiles for your wall or floor maybe a bit costly but you will reap the benefit. You can opt for anti-bacterial tiles, anti-slip, even subway tiles, and more. But choosing the right kind of tiles in your bathroom will work wonders for you especially if it goes well with your bathroom theme and design. If you have a narrow bathroom, placing the tiles in a horizontal layout can help stretch your bathroom’s size.
Also, installing anti-slip floor tiles in your bathroom is a bonus. Buyers with kids or the elderly consider safety a primordial factor. And your bathroom’s anti-slip flooring may work as a great asset for them.
2. Two sinks are better than one.
We have discussed that a property with more than one bathroom will give your home greater value than just one. This is because sharing the bathroom is a need for most families. This being said, double sinks can also do a similar job. With two persons being able to do their hygiene routine both at the same time, installing a twin basin or sink is very functional and time-efficient. However, since not all homes maintain twin bathroom sinks, being able to find one is an added plus.
3. Replace the bathtub with glass showers.
A bathtub is commonly preferred by families with kids – and pets. But replacing one with a glass shower may still be a good idea for a bathroom update. Glass is a proven material that may increase the value of a property, which includes the bathroom. Also, glass showers may give the illusion of additional visible floor space which is lacking with a tub.
So, it’s all up to you as to what direction you will take. Whether you will place a bathtub which will be appealing to families with kids, or opt for a glass shower for a contemporary and sleek design appealing to modern-day buyers.
4. Let the natural light come in.
There is always something appealing with a bright bathroom. This is because light adds more space to any room, than a dim one. Also, letting natural light come inside a bathroom helps lower the chances of moisture buildup in nooks and corners. If you decide to put a plant in your bathroom, the natural light from the sun will make your plant healthy and your bathroom alive and fresh.
However, if you have a windowless bathroom, there’s no need to fret. Installing transom window in your door, or choosing translucent bathroom doors, or even going all out with a skylight can add light to a dim room. For more ideas how to make a windowless bathroom brighter, you can check my previous article by clicking this link.
