Title: Budgeting for a bathroom renovation
While you want to remodel your bathroom, you also do not want to break the bank, and that is a distinct possibility with any home renovation project. The key to having a successful home renovation project is to clearly understand what it can cost. Then you can make decisions on what to include and what you can live without while still being able to live in your home! So if you are in the planning stages for a new bathroom here is what you need to know about budgeting for a bathroom renovation-
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- What is an actual remodel- Remodeling defines a mid-range bathroom remodel as putting in a toilet, tub with a tile surround, an integrated solid-surface double sink and vanity, recessed medicine cabinet, and ceramic tile floor. An upscale bathroom remodel includes expanding the room at least an additional 8 square feet into existing space, adding a window, moving fixtures such as the toilet and replacing them with high-end models, a 4- X 6-foot tiled shower with a shower wall, a bidet, stone countertops in the vanity with two sinks, linen closet, tile floor, lighting, an exhaust fan and other high end amenities.
- What it really costs-Home decorating surveys show that mid-range bathroom remodel is approximately $10,499. This can be higher or lower depending on where you live. An interesting note is that redoing your bathroom can cost less in the South and more in the West and Northeast.
- What you can get back-Real estate surveys also show that bathroom renovations can even recoup over a 100% of the cost so it may be a smart move if you have the money. Potential buyers are always looking for updated bathrooms in order to spare themselves the cost and the hassle of doing it themselves. Real estate agents also report that an upscale bathroom remodel is estimated to cost $26, 052 and homeowners can expect to recoup about 93 percent of that on resale.
- What you need to know about how it's done-Unless you are doing the renovation yourself you will use a general contractor or you will contract out the work. Keep in mind that if you do not use a general contractor you will need some know-how since you will need to get permits, oversee the work and know how to hire the right subs. If you are using a general contractor you should get bids and ask for and check references. It is crucial to see how satisfied his or her previous customers are. If you want to save some money you might consider doing the demolition yourself and you can even hold a demolition party to gather help from friends. Another way to save some money is to compare buying the materials yourself with the cost of the general contractor supplying them.
- What you should consider-Labor can be big ticket item in a bathroom remodel. Keep in mind that anyone who has to lay a hand inside your bathroom can charge you big bucks for the privilege. This runs the gamut from anyone who has to refinish the ceiling, install sconces and ceiling lights, plumb the fixtures, or lays the tile. It is important to keep this in mind when laying out your bathroom plan since moving lights or plumbing or putting in a window will cost more than sticking with the bathroom's original layout. It doe not mean you can not vary some areas, but you will need to pick and choose to avoid sticker shock.
- What goes into the bathroom-The type of fixtures you choose will also play a huge part in your budget. Picking fixtures may be a game of compromise such as if you are able to use the same plumbing (not moving it) you may be able to choose more expensive fixtures. In addition there is the cost of the fixture themselves. If you must have a high end sink then consider putting in a standard white no frills toilet. With some planning and research you can have the beautiful bathroom you really want without breaking the bank.
