Adding value to a property can be done in a variety of ways, yet many of us forget the potential of reworking the bathroom. If you are thinking about sprucing up your bathroom in the hope of increasing your property’s value, you’ll also be pleased to know that it can sometimes help to sell it faster too!
How does a new bathroom add value to a property?
If you’ve ever been in the market for a property you’ll be all too familiar with looking around online at homes within your price range and preferred area. If you’re anything like me, you’ll tend to view the images as though all the contents inside each room aren’t there and focus more on the potential. The problem is, when you find something that looks like it could be the one, scrutiny levels are turned from 1 to 11 and a bathroom can be one of the easiest places to criticise.
So, ‘what does this have to do with adding value?’ I hear you ask. First of all, it’s a buyer’s market with property, which means your home is only worth what someone else will pay for it. An outdated, cramped or dingy looking bathroom can definitely put off a potential buyer which not only potentially leaves your home on the market for longer, but can also potentially lead to reducing the price of your home too.
Let the spruce loose!
Depending on your bathroom, it may take a little or a lot of work to get your bathroom looking its best. We’re going to look at several ways you can remodel your bathroom to help add value to your property.
Complete Bathroom Suites
A complete bathroom suite will allow you to work from a blank canvas. Very old bathroom fixtures can get so grotty that they seem impossible to get back to their original state. Buying all new bathroom items will give your bathroom a brand new feel. With bathroom suites, you’ll have all matching fixtures which will give a professional designer finish. This option can be one of the highest costs, but it does have a higher potential of adding value to your home.
Small Suites
Some people find that one or two big items such as freestanding baths can be revived so if you just require a few bits and pieces, some smaller suites which just comprise of a toilet and basin may be an ideal option. This will not only allow you to keep your favourite bathroom piece but it’ll keep costs of your bathroom remodel down.
Small and Simple Changes
Remodelling a bathroom doesn’t have to be a complete overhaul though, and simply adding new towels, a lick of paint and some well thought-out accessories and decoration can really make an impact. If your bathroom isn’t too old and just needs a really good clean, then get out the cloths and mop and go to town on it. Once you’ve added a few little trendy bits and pieces you’ll be surprised how good it looks. Consider removing old, outdated wallpaper or tiles and replace with new tiles. Tiles are a popular choice for many homeowners and neutral colour and style is advised, where possible, as to cater to as many tastes as possible.
For a potential buyer, showing that you keep your place clean, tidy and stylish will speak volumes and can increase your asking price and even help sell your home. This option can be one of the cheapest ways to add value to your home by improving your bathroom.
Bathroom Replanning
Some bathrooms are just badly designed from the start. If you think that a bathroom layout could be better and more practical then do consider replanning your bathroom. Moving things around in order to create more room can really make a difference of the value of your home and it may not be as costly as you think. If the bathroom is very small then consider knocking through walls where possible and taking a portion of another room that doesn’t require as much space.
The beauty about creating a larger bathroom is that you don’t necessarily have to buy expensive fixtures for it. Restore and reuse where you can and then buy necessities to finish the job. Potential buyers will tend to want to rip out any old things anyway and do it themselves, but they’ll certainly be bowled over with a larger bathroom to work with.
With that said, whichever option you choose will in some way improve the value of your home. Each option is dependant on your bathroom, space and budget. Beware of how long some options will take to complete; if you’re looking to sell your home quickly then a complete overhaul and bathroom redesign will potentially take a longer time to finish and may not be a great option.
When deciding on a colour scheme, it’s always best practice to go for a neutral theme. Neutral colours such as grey, white or cream will get the best results as they’re aimed at a larger audience. Going for particular patterns and colours could put off potential buyers and have a reverse effect.
Written by Alan Gregory, Victorian Plumbing
