A renovated bathroom is one of the most positive features that you can offer in a home if you are determined to achieve its maximum value when the time comes to sell.
Buyers know that upgrading a bathroom is expensive and a significant project. And they love the idea that they can walk into their new home and immediately enjoy a bathroom fit for a five-star hotel.
The key to a successful renovation is the choice of cabinetry, tiles and fixtures. Prospective buyers currently appreciate a neutral palette rather than a striking colour scheme.
Embracing natural elements, such as wood textures for the vanity, work well at the moment. For splashes of colour, you can use fresh fluffy bold coloured or tonal towels which gives the area an additional sense of luxury.
For an inspection or walk-through, the addition of candles, scented soaps, and spectacular bath oil bottles helps achieve a memorable experience.
Given that the bathroom is such an essential element of any sale, it’s no surprise owners see it as a prime renovation goal to increase the value of their home.
So, below is a five-point guide for purchasing the most important elements of a bathroom so you can create a sanctuary that will achieve the best possible price for your home.
Vanities
This is the glamour piece of any bathroom, but be careful your selection remains in context with the rest of the design. Avoid installing an oversized model, as this will make your bathroom feel small and cluttered. Drawers rather than doors are the height of fashion right now. Take note of whether your waste pipes go to the wall or the floor to choose the appropriate internal design. Select hardwood over veneer for the cabinetry as it is more water-resistant.
Tubs
Deep, soaking baths are not quite the fashion item they once were. For many people, it feels like over-indulgence as they can take a LOT of water to fill. The decision to keep to a standard size in no way limits your options as you’ll need to decide if you want a bath that is wall fixed, stand alone and decide on the type of material your bath will be made of.
Fixtures
There are so many wonderfully attractive fixtures for a bathroom. This is the territory of you “get what you pay for”. You don’t need gold-plated, German industrial design, but buy the best quality you can afford as cheaper tapware tends to have poorer plumbing elements and so won’t last long. Keep a keen eye on the water efficiency of each fixture. In a nutshell, seek out form and efficiency.
Tiles
Be careful that you don’t fall into the trap of picking fashionable colour schemes. Stay with the classic looks that will not date in five years. Use magazines, Pinterest, Houzz or Instagram to find inspiration.
Showers
Avoid sliding or concertina doors. They’re usually at the cheap end of the market for a reason and they’re a nightmare to clean and don’t cut it for a modern bathroom. Select full-glass screens and ask your supplier about spraying them with a solution that stops soap scum and dirt sticking to the glass. You’ll pay around $100 for that little addition but think of the hours you’ll save from not having to clean the glass continually.