Giving a fresh new look to an outdated bathroom can modernise and add value to a home without costing too much, says Adrian Goslett, Regional Director and CEO of RE/MAX of Southern Africa.
He adds that renovations and contemporary remodelling of bathrooms are known to boost the marketability of a home and, in addition, bathrooms and kitchens are the two areas of a home where the cost of the renovation can be largely recouped on the sale of the property. “According to statistics on average sellers can expect to get between 65% and 75% of the renovation cost back when renovating a full bathroom and approximately 65% of the cost back when adding a new bathroom,” says Goslett.
Over the past few years bathroom renovations have become extremely popular with many homeowners opting to renovate their bathrooms before any other room in the home. “This can be attributed to the fact that bathrooms and kitchens are major focal points that buyers look at before they put in an offer to purchase a property. Additionally bathrooms are generally smaller than other rooms in the home, so the cost of renovation can be managed more effectively,” says Goslett.
While it is a good idea to use a professional contractor with the necessary qualifications for larger complex projects, homeowners will be able to complete simple updates themselves. “Depending on the project, a simple renovation can be as effective as a complete remodel. Sometimes all that a bathroom needs is modern fixtures, a tile and grout scrub and a fresh coat of paint to transform it into a completely new space. Sanitary warehouses and hardware stores are always getting new inventory, which means it is easy to for homeowners to find fixtures on sale that will suit their particular taste. It might be a matter of merely changing the tap fixtures or perhaps a bath tub. Consider changing to a double sink instead of a single one, recessed lighting, or new floor and wall tiles,” says Goslett.
According to Goslett, homeowners who are looking to do the renovations themselves can find a wealth of information on bathroom do-it-yourself projects from the local library, bookstores and of course online. There are countless books and reputable websites available that can help guide homeowners through the process, whether the primary focus is design, functionality or cost. Homeowners can check whether their local hardware store has do-it-yourself classes or seminars that they can attend, which will provide guidance and practical examples. Goslett says that DIY projects are a great way to add value to a home – provided the work is completed properly. If installed or completed incorrectly, the project could end up costing twice as much to fix as a professional would have charged in the first place.
“Homeowners, who are planning on undergoing an extensive renovation project or adding another bathroom to their home, should get proper plans drawn up. If contractors are called in to do any work on the home and require the plans, keep the original and give them copies. While renovating a bathroom may cause some inconvenience, this is a small price to pay when compared to the aesthetic appeal and value that is adds to the property,” Goslett concludes.
