Month: March 2019

Value Added with a New Bathroom: Is it a Worthy Investment?

Bathrooms are a necessity in a home, but they also have a stylistic element that buyers pay a lot of attention to while they shop for a new home. If you are looking at upgrades that will add the most value to your home in the eyes of a buyer, then take a look at improving existing bathrooms or adding a new one.

Bathroom Remodeling Could Yield an Attractive ROI

An outdated bathroom can drastically reduce your chances of getting the best price if you decide to sell your home. After all, no buyer wants to walk through a glorious home just to find an outdated bathroom all decked out in seafoam green fixtures, lacking modern shower ideas. When you upgrade the bathroom  -- even just a basic remodel to replace fixtures and primary elements -- it can make a huge difference in the home’s overall appeal. A few signs your bathroom could use a remodeling include:

• The fixtures appear outdated compared to the rest of the house
• The bathroom has the same fixtures it had when originally built several decades ago
• There are issues with functionality in the bathroom (i.e. not enough space to move)

Making a small investment into bath remodel cost could easily see a spike in your home's value.

New Bathrooms Can Yield a 60% ROI or More

According to Home Guides, a new bathroom will yield you about a 60 percent return on home value, which is a fair rate. This return can range according to location. For instance, homeowners along the east side of the country may see a lower return of just over 47 percent while homeowners along the west side of the country could see higher returns closer to 70 percent. Mid-range bathroom additions, which would include building onto an existing structure, can cost as much as $25,000. However, you could easily convert an existing space and invest a lot less money to get a new bathroom built.

Examples of Bathroom Additions & Remodels by RWC

RWC has had their hands in all kinds of bathroom builds and remodels over the years. From transforming existing spaces to doing full-on bathroom builds, we've done it all, and our work speaks for itself. Here are a few of our latest bathroom remodeling projects.

West Caldwell, NJ Bathroom Renovation

This homeowner wanted a more modern space with a spa-like feel and had to remodel on a budget. With the addition of frameless glass shower doors and a chic new layer of tile work in natural stone shades, this bathroom took on an entirely different personality.

West Orange, NJ Powder Room Renovation

This powder room was lacking personality when we were called in to do a total renovation. By the time we finished, the space was not only screaming luxury invitation, but it was also highly functional. Granite counters graced the vanity, a floating wall mirror tied everything together, and the dark wood vanity upped that traditional at-home feel.

Takeaways to Remember About Bathroom Renovations and Additions

• A renovation can be as small or large as you want and still give you a return
• Bathroom build-ons are more expensive, but bathroom integrations into existing spaces are just as functional
• ROI can vary according to where you are located

Working with the best professionals will help ensure you get the most from your bathroom remodeling or addition project. Contact RWC today for more information about how we can help.

*Note: This is an updated post of a blog published on Nov 27, 2018. Check out the original post below!*

Although most people choose a home with the features they want and are going to be happy with their purchase, very few people can find a house which is absolutely perfect and are going to want to conduct remodeling projects over the years. This is especially true with the master bathroom. Although the master bathroom renovation cost can be prohibitive for some designs, there are always going to be projects which will help the bathroom serve the needs of the current homeowners, whether they plan to live there for the rest of their lives or enjoy it for a few years and resell at a profit.

 

Using Bathroom Space

The first consideration is how to plan for the amount of space a particular bathroom entails and determine how to designate separate areas. This concept can apply to wet areas around the shower and sinks, or to his and her spaces for dual use by a couple. Better Homes and Gardens points out, there are ways for a couple to truly share a bath rather than taking turns each morning to prepare for the day. Although it's rare to see two showers, a separate shower and tub or a dual sink layout is always helpful. Having enough room for two people to maneuver and to place the toilet in a private closet will also make the bathroom more comfortable for two people to share.

Cosmetic Features

Cosmetic features are the exciting aspect of a master bathroom renovation. The bathroom can be country cozy or elegant and formal. It can take on a rather Spartan design of utter simplicity and pure function or can incorporate awe-inspiring feats of tile work and custom carpentry. Simple concepts such as adding extra mirrors or using a two-toned paint layout can add a sense of style to the room without much work, whereas building a dais for the bathtub can change the room's entire theme.

Price Expectations

It's impossible to determine an average cost for a master bath renovation, as it depends on the room in question and the plan for how much to renovate a master bathroom on a specific case by case basis. A small master bathroom renovation is going to generally be less expensive than a large one, but it depends on the tiles, mirrors, vanity, or other features decided on for the design.

Functional and Practical Considerations

Some considerations to address before you start brainstorming master bathroom remodel ideas is what types of materials are going to work best and how they match with the rest of the house. Tile floors are considered a premium standard for a bathroom, although there is nothing wrong with vinyl if it best suits the budget. Hardwood floors are also acceptable if it retains consistency with other rooms, but might require a special finish coating to assure protection against water. Paints need to be of top quality and semi-gloss is generally easier to clean and sanitize comparative to flat finishes. Interesting moldings and intricate woodworking can add a particular flair to the room but aren't especially necessary.

Conclusion

Before beginning any bathroom renovation, consider the following aspects of what you hope to achieve versus the current bathroom design:

• How do you plan to use the space?
• What type of design do you expect, and how will it match or contrast the rest of the house?
• What budget are you hoping for, and how flexible are you with that figure?

For a full-service estimate, design, and bathroom remodel project in Northern New Jersey, contact RWC to schedule an appointment with one of our professional representatives to discuss your needs and expectations.

*The post below was originally written in August of 2015 and has since been updated above.*

Master Bathroom Ideas For Renovations

Having a large bathroom is something most people dream of. It has plenty of benefits too. However, big bathrooms are not without their problems. Sometimes a large bathroom can be so big it seems cavernous and barren. If you are among the people with the fortunate problem of having too much space in your bathroom, you are in luck. The following suggestions provide ideas for filling up the extra space and making the room look cozier. Consider these fantastic master bathroom renovation ideas as you remodel this large and useful space.

Paint two-tone walls

Forgo painting the walls in the bathroom a boring stark white, particularly if the space is large. One of the better alternative master bathroom ideas is to consider your walls a canvas. Painting the walls two colors creates a cozy feeling because it makes the ceilings seem lower than they actually are. It is easy and convenient to use wainscoting as a natural divider between the colors. However, simply using painters tape as the divider and removing it when the painting is complete is a good option as well.

Have a seating area

Most people, particularly those with smaller bathrooms, tend to think that there is only one place to sit in the bathroom. However, if your bathroom is spacious, that does not need to be the case. Creating a seating area is a great way to use up some of that extra space in your master bathroom. Consider adding a plush and oversized couch that a guest can lounge on as your are getting ready to go out. The seating area does not need to be reserved for guests, though. It can also be a cozy sanctuary for you to sneak away to get some private time as well.

Install mirrors

Mirrors are a necessity in the bathroom, so they may as well be decorative as well as functional. Although it is true that mirrors will make a room look larger, they are great additions to a large bathroom. Of course, there should be a mirror above the sink in the vanity area. But, it is also a good idea to have a full-length mirror in the bathroom so you can get an entire view of your ensemble before you leave the lavatory.

Provide enough storage

Regardless of the size of a bathroom, everyone wants more storage. Those who are lucky enough to have large bathrooms should take advantage of the extra room and use some of it for extra storage. There is no shortage of items you can store in the bathroom, so storage will never go to waste. A great master bathroom renovation idea would be to provide room to store extra towels and other linens, makeup and beauty supplies, toilet paper, and even cleaning supplies.

Place functional bathroom accessories

Accessories are important in a bathroom for a few reasons. Not only do they make the space more functional, but they also make it more attractive. It’s a bonus when the same accessories can accomplish both goals. Large bathrooms are ideal for having a fancy stand-alone toilet paper holder or an ornate towel rack. If your bathroom is particularly large, you can even install a closet or cabinet, so fresh towels are always just a few steps away.

Create his-and-hers areas

Wars have started over shared bathroom spaces, so creating specific spaces for each person who is using a bathroom is ideal for large bathrooms. Install a double vanity, so each person has a personal prep space. You can even create an extended shower area with dual showerheads. Just think about peacefulness that will be created when you’re not fighting over the sink or vanity space. You will have to find something other than who gets to brush their teeth first to bicker about.

Add plants

You may think that it is odd to have plants in the bathroom, but it is a great way to take up some extra space. Plants provide a feeling of freshness and luxury to the bathroom. Tall plants fill in the vertical height in the room and also occupy seemingly wasted corner space. Be sure to only use plants that flourish in a high-humidity environment; otherwise they will not flourish. Add plants to the bathroom windowsill where they can get sunlight during the day. You can also choose to go the artificial plant route to assure you will not have any climate issues.

Create Zones

A large bathroom should be divided into wet and dry zones. The wet zone should contain the bathtub, shower, and sinks. The dry zone should have vanity storage and hanging space. With this type of layout, the bathroom is essentially cut in half. Since each zone has a specific purpose, you will never feel like you are stuck in the middle of nothingness.

Having a large bathroom is an envious problem. Those who find themselves in this predicament can take the opportunity to create the big bathroom of their dreams. RWC is your friendly neighborhood home improvement place. We can help you turn your cavernous bathroom into a beautiful and luxurious space.

Contact us today to see what design ideas you like and how RWC can help you.

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by RWC

How Much Value Does a Bathroom Add: Does Adding a Bathroom Increase My Home’s Value?

Homeowners have many reasons to consider adding a third bathroom in the home. Families grow, basements are converted into recreation rooms, or the home's bathroom layout just doesn't suit entertaining guests. And if you think a bathroom remodel doesn't give you a return on your investment - think again! According to HGTV:

"When buyers tour homes for sale, they're taking a close look at the bathrooms. For some, the sheer number of bathrooms in a home is critical—they must have a master, a family bathroom (full bath) and a half bathroom (powder room) for guests. "

And what better way to utilize the refund from your yearly taxes. Consider it a win-win situation when homeowners can recoup up to 60% of the cost of a bathroom addition, because this is one home improvement project that will greatly increase the value of your home.

Cost of Adding a Third Bathroom

A bathroom addition is a great way to convert underutilized space into a third bathroom. And with today's modular, walk-in shower stalls and vanities, a smaller bathroom can be added with only 30 square feet of space. Almost any home can accommodate a third bathroom in places you may not have thought about:

• A walk-in closet
• Converted pantry
• Basement Area
• End of a hallway
• Repurposed laundry room
• Under a staircase

Adding a Modest Third Bathroom

So, how much value does a bathroom addition offer to your home's resale price? It depends on the extent and scale of the remodel. Consider two bathroom remodeling options - a midrange bathroom addition can cost $47,000, with an increase in your home's market value of about $28,000.

This bathroom mid-range price point considers a bathroom of about 6 x 8 feet with poured concrete walls, all new electrical wiring, and other nice bathroom features like:

• Stone-top vanity and molded sink
• Standard chrome faucets
• Fiberglass tub/shower
• Low-profile toilet
• General and spot lighting fixtures

An Upscale Bathroom Addition

Often, it is the addition of a master bathroom for the homeowner's private bedroom or a luxury bathroom that can be enjoyed by the entire family that makes the most sense. This is especially true for homes that already feature a powder room or enough standard bathrooms.

An upscale bathroom has its rewards both while living in the home and when the home is sold. Expect to spend about $87,000 for adding an upscale bathroom to your home - but this could increase your home's resale value by $51,000. Here are some features of what a luxury bathroom would entail:

• About 100-square-foot master bath
• Neo-angle shower with frameless glass enclosure
• Rain shower or body-spray fixtures
• Freestanding soaker tub or whirlpool bath
• Double-sink with stone countertop
• Matching floor and wall ceramic tile
• Custom cabinetry

Adding a Half Bathroom

Half bathrooms only need enough space for a toilet, along with a sink and mirror. Yet, converting a small space into a powder room is not only great for guests, but is essential for homes without a bathroom on the main level. You can make the most out of a small amount of floor space by incorporating a pedestal sink or a modern, wall mounted sink.

The main factor to consider when adding a half bathroom is the cost associated with extending plumbing and wiring into the space. Partner with a professional kitchen and bath renovations firm that can determine the best location for a new powder room, closest to the home's water pipes and drainage system.

Takeaways

• An upscale bathroom addition can add $51,000 to your home's value
• A mid range bathroom can increase in your home's market value by about $28,000
• Adding a main level, powder room is a popular home improvement project for older homes.

For all your residential bathroom remodel and additions in New Jersey, visit RWC Windows, Doors, and More for design consultation and professional installation services.

Note: This is an updated post of a blog published on Dec 18, 2018. Check out the original post below!

Every homeowner and certainly every investor understands the need to not just conduct routine maintenance and repairs but in order to maintain and increase a home's value renovations are usually needed. It goes without saying that renovating a bathroom or adding one is going to make the house more desirable and therefore more valuable. A better question is to ask is,  ‘how much value does a bathroom add?’. The fact is, not all bathrooms are equal and not all renovations are the same, so if you want to know if a bathroom increase home value, it depends on what the owner is willing to put into the house and the abilities of the contractor who conducts the job.

Understanding Home Value

There is more to home value than the house itself, or the amount of materials and labor used to build it. The area affects the homes value, as does the upkeep and any renovations which occur over the years. Some renovations might seem like a good idea, but might not be ideal as they add too much to the house which, because of other factors, can't truly take on the value the renovations are worth. For example, adding a bathroom in home is always going to improve the function of the house for the family who lives there, and will add value to the house, whereas adding a deck might not be worth as much if the lot is too small to enjoy it in private. An experienced contractor will always be able to help determine what types of renovations are going to best suit your situation, and what will provide the most additional value to the house.

Types of Upgrades

The fact is, there are all sorts of upgrades and renovations, and many different levels of work, which can be done with your bathroom. Simply painting it can freshen the room and provide a better feeling of luxuriousness. Another simple way to give the bathroom a new feel is to replace the lights and cabinet hardware, improving the cosmetic aspects of the room. For an older home, or if the original builder skimped a bit with less expensive fixtures, you may also want to consider adding a custom vanity or sink and countertop, or replace the toilet with a more efficient modern version. Floors are also a relatively simple way to add value by upgrading from vinyl to tile.

Adding a Bathroom

In addition to renovating a bathroom, depending on the house you might be able to actually add a new bathroom. It depends on the design of the house, but perhaps a walk-in closet can have plumbing added, or an area in the basement can potentially be turned into an extra bathroom. Alternatively, if a room is large enough, you might be able to add a wall to separate an area to be turned into an extra bath. You wouldn't typically want to take down an exterior wall just to add an extension for an extra bathroom, but it isn't out of the realm of possibility if you really need to, and certainly if you're adding a den, office, or extra bedroom it would be worth considering adding a new bathroom as well.

Final Considerations

• Determine what you hope to achieve with your bathroom, whether as a convenience for your family or an investment in the home's value.
• Set a realistic budget to determine how much and what types of renovations are appropriate.
• Discuss the project with a contractor as their knowledge and experience can be invaluable to your final decisions.

Takeaways

If you're considering conducting bathroom renovations or adding a bath to your house, give us a call at RWC in the West Caldwell, NJ area. You'll find our representatives to be friendly and helpful, ready to work toward your needs and goals.

*The blog post below was originally written in March 2018 and has since been updated.*

Adding a bathroom to your home will not only help cater for the growing needs of your family or worries of who gets to take a shower first in the morning, but also boost its resale value. Many homeowners often as the question, does a bathroom addition add value? And if it does, by how much?

While it’s not easy to pin down exactly how much a new bathroom will increase the value of your home, factors such as your location,  the real estate market, your home’s condition, and the size and style of your new bathroom play a role in determining ROI.

How much value does a bathroom remodel add?

According to a report by Remodeling Magazine, the average cost of adding a bathroom across the nation in 2017 was $43,232. Such bathroom additions boosted a home’s value by an average of $23,283, giving a 53.9% return on investment. This means that for every 1 dollar spent on a bathroom addition project, a homeowner can expect a return of 0.54 cents during resale.

The same report also showed that upscale bathroom addition projects cost around $81,515 on average, and homeowners recouped $46,507 of that money in home resale. That is a 57.1% increase in the home’s value. Homeowners on the East Coast recouped around 50%; slightly less than their West Coast counterparts who recouped around 60%.

Increasing your Home’s Value

As a resident of New Jersey, you should first determine if your project will be feasible by determining the type of bathroom addition you want and hiring an expert remodeler or appraiser to give you an estimate of how much your bathroom project will cost. You may also want to ask a realtor to compare your home’s value with that of your neighbors and help you determine the scope of work.

Opt for a full or ¾ bath

If the project is worth it, consider going for a three-quarter or full bath instead of a half bath for much better returns on your investment. If you have space, a bath with a shower stall or a tub will significantly increase your home’s value. But if space is an issue, a half bathroom will still give you a considerable increase in your home’s resale value. A basement bathroom, for example, is an extemporary addition.

Leverage a higher ROI with stylish-inexpensive finishes

According to many realtors, a typical buyer is often looking for a home with a master bath, family bath, and half bath for guests. Buyers are highly attracted to stylish, spacious and functional bathrooms, and are often willing to pay higher for such. To get maximum returns on your bathroom addition, consider paying key attention to final touches. You can leverage more return on stunning finishing touches by hunting for bargains and discounts on fixtures and accessories. A professional, experienced bathroom builder and remodeler can guide you on this.

Keep your bathroom addition to scale

Although bathroom addition is guaranteed to increase your home’s value, you have to be keen in matching it to the home’s current value. For example, adding an $80,000 upscale bath to your home is supposed to increase your home’s value by at least $40,000. However, adding a bathroom to a home worth $110,000 won’t raise the property’s value by $40,000.

Takeaway:

• National average ROI for bathroom additions in 2017 was 53.9%
• ROI for bathroom addition depends on location, home condition, size and style of new bathroom
• A feasibility study is important
• A full bath offers a higher home resale value
• Stylish bathroom finishes also give a higher home value

Professional advice and construction work is imperative when making a bathroom addition. Contact RWC today for advice on whether a bathroom addition in your home will increase its value and start planning your new bathroom remodeling project today.

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by RWC