Everyone wants an updated bathroom (or is dreaming up bathroom renovation ideas). Putting money into the loo is not only pretty on the eyes, it can actually give you a solid return on your investment. The average midrange bathroom remodel costs $27,164, according to the latest Remodeling Cost versus Value report, and it’s projected that you will recoup 58.9% of that cost when reselling your home. Even if your new resale value doesn’t skyrocket, a home with a dated bathroom can work against you. Buyers may lowball your offer or even skip putting in a bid altogether.
When it comes to choosing materials and finishes, those focusing on resale value should consider timeless design. “Nickel tones are the most popular for a bathroom,” says Shoshanna Shapiro, the owner and principal designer at Sho and Co. in Washington, DC. Shapiro also recommends avoiding trends and choosing a more timeless look for retail value. “Real stone tile from places like Floor&Decor and the Home Depot are reasonable in price.”
Even without a full upgrade, you can still make sizable improvements on any budget—whether it’s $100, $1,000, or $10,000. See how these bathroom renovation ideas could give your whole house a run for its money.
Spend $100
Even if you’re on a tight budget and only have $100 to spend, you can change the look of your bathroom and avoid common bathroom renovation mistakes. “Hands down the easiest and most inexpensive bathroom upgrade a homeowner can make is replacing existing drawer pulls and vanity hardware,” says Devin Shaffer, lead interior designer at Decorilla in New York. “Believe it or not, this simple swap of the pulls and knobs can give the look of a $1,000-plus light remodel project.” In fact, Shaffer says you can purchase bathroom hardware for as low as 50 cents per piece, and he recommends that you get 5 to 10 returnable options to take home and test them out.