How Your Atlanta Bathroom Remodel Pays YOU
You may think your Atlanta bathroom remodel is just a pipe dream. You may consider the cost and question whether it’s worth the investment. But thinking of having a fresh and modern bathroom with added comfort and space gives such a plunging good feeling. Let’s flush those worries away by examining the potential returns of such a remodel when you eventually decide to sell.
Bathroom remodels account for 80% of contractors’ jobs, second only to kitchen makeovers, and it's easy to see why. Transforming your bathroom can greatly change the atmosphere of your home. It's a space you and your guests use frequently—often multiple times each day. It's where you prepare for the challenges of the day and unwind before bed. It can even serve as your personal sanctuary. That's why homeowners and potential buyers place so much importance on their bathrooms.
But the financial aspect is just as important. Will the money you invest in your Atlanta bathroom remodel lead to a profitable return when it's time to sell?
What Is the ROI for an Atlanta Bathroom Remodel?
When Atlanta homeowners think about selling their homes, they often consider areas that could use some attention before listing—and bathrooms are a common concern. According to the Zillow Group Consumer Housing Trends Report, 26% of sellers make some bathroom improvements before listing their homes. Making the bathroom more appealing can attract more potential buyers.
Based on Zillow's data, it's clear your Atlanta bathroom remodel offers the highest return on investment (ROI) in terms of increasing a home's resale value. Even with small cosmetic updates, you can expect a $1.71 increase in your home's value for every dollar spent. These improvements include tasks like painting, refinishing cabinets, replacing mirrors, and upgrading hardware.
If you're short on time and money, focusing on bathroom improvements is often a smart strategy.
Should You Complete Your Bathroom Remodel before Selling Your House
As usual with this type of question, the answer can vary. As early as 2019, the average Atlanta homeowner spent about $64,083 on a fancy Atlanta bathroom remodel. When it was time to sell, they could get back around $42,072, which is a 65.7% ROI. With those kinds of numbers, it could be well worth it to put in the work ahead of a sale.
However, remember that all projects are unique. These calculations are based on expanding a small 35-square-foot bathroom to a bigger 100-square-foot area, all within the original design of the house.
Regardless of your goals, there are important questions to consider before starting a bathroom remodel.
Is There a Demand for Updated Bathrooms in Your Area?
To figure this out, take a look at recent comparable sales or ask your real estate agent for help. If you notice new construction happening nearby within your target listing price, a brand-new Atlanta bathroom remodel might be a great choice, especially if you're competing with newly built homes. Even if you won't get back every penny you spend, an updated bathroom can attract a wider range of buyers who might not have considered your property otherwise.
Does Your Bathroom Need Repairs?
If your bathroom is in good working condition but has slightly outdated materials, a full Atlanta bathroom remodel may not be necessary to achieve a picture-perfect look. However, if your bathroom has issues like cracked tiles, mold, water damage, structural problems, or poor electrical systems, a remodel becomes necessary. Most of these issues will come up during a buyer's inspection, and it's wise to address them before listing. When dealing with significant problems, you'll eventually have to cover the repair costs—either before listing, through negotiations after an unfavorable inspection report, or by reducing your listing price to account for the required work.
Is an Atlanta Bathroom Remodel the Most Profitable Home Improvement Project?
Having the funds for an Atlanta bathroom remodel doesn't automatically mean it's the best choice. If you've set aside a budget for pre-listing renovations, consult your real estate agent to identify the home features that hold the highest selling potential in your area. Make an informed decision based on the demands and trends of your local market.
Different Kinds of Bathroom Remodels
Taking on an Atlanta bathroom remodel is a big decision, and it's important to understand the costs and potential ROI. The Cost vs. Value Report by Remodeling magazine provides valuable insights on the expenses associated with various bathroom remodeling projects. Here are a few different types of bathroom renovations to consider.
Standard Atlanta Bathroom Remodel
This involves significant changes rather than just minor updates. A standard Atlanta bathroom remodel typically includes the following:
Ceramic tile floors
New chrome fixtures
Ceramic tile surround
Single-level shower handle
Standard white toilet
Solid surface vanity count
The national average cost for this type of remodel is $19,134, with an average return of $13,422, representing an ROI of 70.1%.
Mid-Range Atlanta Bathroom Remodel
An intermediate-level Atlanta bathroom remodel may include structural adjustments and enhancements. This could include these items:
Large ceramic floor tiles
Heated floors
High-end faucets
New lighting
Stone countertops with double sink
Frameless glass doors for showers
Rain shower fixtures
Shower niches
Tiled shower walls
You may also consider adding a freestanding tub. The national average cost for this type of remodel is $61,662, with an average return of $34,644. That means you’ll get an ROI of 56.2%.
Accessible Design Atlanta Bathroom Remodel
This specialized Atlanta bathroom remodel focuses on making the bathroom more accessible for wheelchair users and people with mobility issues. It often includes the following features:
Widened doorways (at least 32 inches)
Accessible storage
Push-button locks
Walk-in shower flush with the floor
Fold-down shower seat
Taller toilet
Open-base vanity
Support bars throughout the bathroom
The mid-range accessible design remodel offers the highest return with an ROI of 70.6%. The national average cost for this type of remodel is $16,393, with an average return of $11,581.
Atlanta Bathroom Additions
In some cases, adding a new bathroom may be a better option than an Atlanta bathroom remodel. This is particularly true if your home has only one bathroom or an imbalanced ratio of bedrooms to bathrooms.
A mid-range bathroom addition typically involves creating a complete 6-by-8-foot bathroom with features similar to a mid-range Atlanta bathroom remodel. This usually includes these elements:
Ceramic tile floors
New chrome fixtures
Ceramic tile surround
Single-level shower handle
Standard white toilet
Solid surface vanity counter
Fiberglass tub/shower with a ceramic surround
The national average ROI for this type of project is 59.9%. Average costs are around $44,717, and returns are $26,769.
In an upscale bathroom addition, the new bathroom should be at least 100 square feet and include upscale features similar to those in an upscale bathroom remodel. Additionally, the HVAC system should be extended into the new space. The national average ROI for this type of project is 54.6%, with an average cost of $83,869 and an average return of $45,752.
Maximize ROI on Your Atlanta Bathroom Remodel
As you approach your Atlanta bathroom remodel, it's important to prioritize your ROI and stay within budget. Follow these tactics for a cost-effective renovation that enhances your space without going overboard.
1. Focus on What Matters
Start your Atlanta bathroom remodel by addressing noticeable functional issues that can impact a buyer's impression during a home tour or inspection. Fix problems like a shoddy paint job, cracked tiles, peeling caulk, water stains, and dirty grout. Opt for durable and waterproof materials, as porous options like marble may not stand the test of time. Consider installing proper ventilation, such as a quiet fan or a window to bring in natural light and transform the space.
2. Make It Practical
When making layout changes, prioritize functionality. Ensure there's enough clearance for shower and cabinet doors. Avoid placing the toilet right next to the bathtub if possible. Also, provide a designated spot for a toilet paper holder. Don't forget to have conveniently located electrical outlets near the countertop. Depending on local market preferences and your home's layout, a water closet (where the toilet is in a separate room within the bathroom) can be an attractive feature for potential buyers.
3. Keep It Neutral
In full bathrooms, it's wise to stick to a neutral and well-lit design to appeal to a wider range of buyers. According to Zillow, light blue bathrooms featuring a gray tint can potentially increase a home's selling price by an average of $2,786 compared to other paint colors.
4. Consider Budget-Friendly Strategies
Small and affordable Atlanta bathroom remodels can have a significant impact on buyers. Here’s a quick list to help you make your project as cost-effective as possible.
Deep clean the bathroom to eliminate rust stains, scrub surfaces, and recaulk to make a significant aesthetic difference.
Refinish or paint cabinets instead of replacing them.
Install a new toilet, preferably in white, with comfort height and an elongated bowl.
Incorporate new lighting fixtures, like sconces, for an upscale look for less.
Add a new mirror or a recessed mirrored-front medicine cabinet.
Update hardware, ensuring a consistent style across knobs, pulls, vanity light, faucets, and towel bars.
Replace scratched or cracked countertops. (Prefabricated vanities with integrated counters offer convenience and affordability here.)
These strategies will help you achieve an Atlanta bathroom remodel that is not only appealing but also practical and budget-friendly.
Yes, Your Atlanta Bathroom Remodel Is Worth It
Judging by the statistics, it's safe to say that the investment you make in your Atlanta bathroom remodel is likely going to return value when you're ready to move on. If you're ready to take the plunge and give your bathroom a truly transformative, modern update, then be sure to connect with experts who can provide trustworthy assistance. You’ll be able to maximize your space and comfort with quality fixtures and top-notch materials.