Why Renovating Your Small Bathroom Can Increase Your Home's Resale Value

So, you and your partner have decided: it’s time to list your house. You’ve outgrown your starter home and it’s time for something bigger. But, you know you want to get the most value out of your home. 

As a homeowner, you’ve probably heard the terms "curb appeal," "ROI," and "resale value" dominate in the real estate world. And honestly, these terms should act as guiding lights for anyone looking to make smart investments in their property. So while updates to the exterior of your home can create a lasting first impression, nothing trumps the power of a newly finished bathroom.

I'm always one to look at the stats before making any renovation or remodelling decisions, but I discovered in my search that thoughtful, simple, and functional bathroom renovations receive upwards of 70% in returns (shoutout to Forbes for the stat). So, here are some ways that renovating a small bathroom in your home can drastically skyrocket your home’s resale value.

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What Homebuyers Are Looking For In Small Bathrooms?

Since launching Bidmii, I’ve been keeping tabs on the real estate landscape as a way of better understanding the homeowner/homebuyer situation. Over the past 3 years, I've discovered one key insight that I want to share with you: homebuyers are increasingly drawn to the allure of thoughtfully renovated small bathrooms. 

It's not just about square footage or the number of bathrooms; it's about so much more. How do you maximize the space in that bathroom? How functional is that limited bathroom space? Is the small bathroom modern, fresh, clean, and stylish? Does the small bathroom provide the spa-like qualities so many homebuyers are looking for? 

Investing in a small bathroom remodel can set your property apart in the eyes of discerning buyers. But you really need to look beyond just practical upgrades and place an equal emphasis on the bathroom’s aesthetics. When you infuse your small bathroom with modern design elements and a touch of luxury, it resonates with potential buyers who are looking for that combination of comfort and sophistication. 

According to Remodeling Magazine’s 2023 Cost vs. Value Report, the best way to maximize the return on investment is to: “Replace all fixtures to include 30x60-inch porcelain-on-steel tub with 4x4-inch ceramic tile surround; new single-lever temperature and pressure-balanced shower control; standard white toilet; solid-surface vanity counter with integral sink; recessed medicine cabinet with light; ceramic tile floor; vinyl wallpaper.”

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How Can You Renovate Your Small Bathroom On A Budget? 

Renovating a small bathroom on a budget is 100% feasible. First and foremost, I recommend prioritizing the essentials—focus on repairs and replacements that address functionality issues, such as leaky faucets or outdated fixtures (cause I mean, come on, who wants to move into a house with a toilet that can hardly flush?) Next, consider the power of a fresh coat of paint – you’d be surprised at how much noticeably brighter the bathroom will become when you touch up the walls. When it comes to fixtures, consider updating all the hardware in the bathroom to something more modern and cohesive. For example, matching gold faucets and cabinet pulls unify the bathroom’s aesthetics and bring the aesthetics up a notch. And lastly, of course, don't overlook the transformative potential of clever storage solutions. 

Upgrading your small bathroom doesn’t necessarily mean installing new showers, sinks, and tiling, honestly, even the smaller changes can go a long way.  And trust me, a well-executed budget renovation can go a long way in maximizing your home's resale value.

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How To Future Proof Your Small Bathroom’s Design

Future-proofing your small bathroom's design is CRITICAL – it’s a strategic investment that is sure to pay dividends over time. When crafting a timeless bathroom design, I recommend focusing on versatility and adaptability. You’re probably thinking: huh? Let me break it down for you: 

1. For starters, incorporate neutral colour schemes and classic materials that have withstood the test of time, allowing for you to easily update the bathroom with accessories and décor to stay in sync with evolving styles.
2. Prioritize functionality—choose fixtures that blend cutting-edge technology with practicality. This ensures that your bathroom remains relevant in the ever-changing landscape of home design. 
3. Consider the longevity of materials; investing in durable, low-maintenance surfaces not only extends the life of your design, but it will also minimize the need for frequent updates. 

So when you kickstart that next small bathroom renovation, adopt a forward-thinking approach to your small bathroom renovation.

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Different Strategies To Maximize Your Return On A Small Bathroom Renovation

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2023& 2024 Small Bathroom Design Trends 

I know you’re probably all dying to know what the current design trends are, so let’s get into it, shall we? 

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Small Bathroom Mindset Shift To Sustainability:

Somewhat of a no-brainer. Given the current state of our planet, the average homeowner and homebuyer is transitioning to a more sustainable, eco-conscious mindset. When thinking about your upcoming small bathroom renovation, consider incorporating eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient fixtures. 

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Design Your Small Bathroom WIth A Minimalist Approach:

The 'less is more' philosophy trumps. Minimalist design with its clean lines, neutral tones, and streamlined fixtures creates an open, clean, and fresh feel. This is the perfect design style to go for if you have a small bathroom space. 

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Incorporate Organic Textures Into Your Small Bathroom:

Texture is really huge in today’s current trends, especially more natural-looking textures. Find organic-looking textured tiles and natural materials to add depth and visual interest to the space. 

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By understanding and implementing these current design trends into your small bathroom renovation, you're not just keeping up with the times; you're setting the stage for increased resale value and a bathroom that resonates with the tastes of discerning homebuyers.

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Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: How much value can a small bathroom renovation add to my home?

A: The added value can vary, but a well-executed small bathroom renovation will more than likely yield a positive return on investment. Different factors will impact the extent of that return, like local real estate market conditions, and the quality of materials used.

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Q: What are the key elements to focus on when renovating a small bathroom for value?

A: Key elements include sleek and modern fixtures, efficient space utilization, high-quality materials, a neutral colour palette, and a bonus if you add smart technology solutions.

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Q: Can I undertake a small bathroom renovation on a budget?

A: 110%. A budget-friendly small bathroom option definitely exists. Consider a new paint job, updated hardware, cost-effective fixtures. If you are smart in the planning and prioritization stages, you will be able to achieve a noticeable transformation without breaking the bank.

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Q: How important is the choice of fixtures and finishes in a small bathroom renovation?

A: Small details may be small, but they often have the largest impact. Opting for modern, durable, and stylish fixtures can significantly enhance the look and feel of the bathroom, which contributes to the perceived value of the  overall property.

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Q: Should I hire professionals or attempt a DIY renovation for my small bathroom?

A: This is a tough question to answer because it depends on your skills, the complexity of the renovation, and the time you're willing to commit to the project. While some DIY projects can be cost-effective, hiring professionals ensures a high-quality result and may be necessary for more complex tasks. Definitely hire a professional if your small bathroom renovation involves any plumbing work... especially if you've never handled plumbing before.

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Q: Are energy-efficient features in a small bathroom renovation worth the investment?

A: Always. Energy-efficient features, such as LED lighting and water-saving fixtures, not only contribute to environmental sustainability but can also appeal to eco-conscious buyers.

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Q: How can I make my small bathroom renovation appeal to a broad range of potential buyers?

A: Stick to neutral colour palettes, timeless design elements, and features that enhance functionality. You may be compelled to incorporate that fun wallpaper, but if you're trying to appeal to broader audiences, it's best to stay simple.

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Q: Will a small bathroom renovation increase my home's resale value even if the rest of the house is not updated?

A: It can definitely help, but it's also essential to consider the property as a whole. We definitely recommend taking a balanced approach to home improvement - if multiple rooms in your house need sprucing up, figure out the best way to go about this. Is it simply repainting and refinishing? Allocate budget where you feel your house needs it most.

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Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid during a small bathroom renovation for property value?

A: Common mistakes include neglecting proper ventilation, overspending on unnecessary features, and choosing overly trendy designs that may quickly become outdated. It's important to balance aesthetics with practicality. Check out our blog post about the Top 5 Mistakes To Avoid During Your Small Bathroom Renovation.

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About The Author

Phillip Stack

CTO at Bidmii

As Bidmii's CTO, Phillip is basically the force behind the platform. Bug need to be fixed? Phillip will handle it. New feature need to be implemented? Phillip will handle it. But not only that, he'll get it done in about 5 seconds. Seriously, we've never met a developer as fast and strategic as this guy. Phillip is the proud dad of 2 lovely little bambinos (the cutest!), and he is also the proud owner of a brand new fitness watch (which now controls a lot of his life). Connect with Phillip on LinkedIn if you want to hear him talk about how his fitness watch has transformed his routine.
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