One of the easiest and most budget-friendly ways to increase the resale value of your home is to remodel the bathroom. Even if you do not plan to sell, updating the bathroom appearance and features will increase the satisfaction you have in using the space, whether it is a guest vanity tucked into a hallway, a large bathroom used by the entire family, or a his and hers bathroom connected to the master bedroom suite.
Despite the benefits of remodeling the bathroom, the project is a little intimidating. If we are being honest, then we might say the project is downright overwhelming. You do not have to be a plumbing and construction expert to remodel your bathroom. A lot of homeowners are choosing to tackle the project themselves – and you can, too. Here are some things to ask yourself before you start the project.
1. Is time on your side?
Sometimes we are forced to remodel due to life events. For example, you may have a new baby on the way, or an elderly family member who plans to move into your home. You might need to get the bathroom done before that event happens. Speaking of time, how long will the project take? And more importantly, where will you stay while the bathroom is under construction? If this is the only bathroom in your home, then you can see the importance of this last question especially.
2. Do you know what you want?
Have you sat down with the other people who live in your home and talked about what you want in the new bathroom? You will need to discuss lighting, tile, vanity cabinets, sinks, toilet, tub, shower, sinks, and anything else you might find in a bathroom. You may even find yourself moving a wall in your home to make room for an added feature that was not there before, such as a garden tub or a stand-alone shower.
3. How much money do you have to work with?
Sit down with your spouse or other partner, if necessary, and work out a budget for how much this will cost. And then go through and add in a little wiggle room as you never know what surprises could pop up during your bathroom remodeling project.
4. Do you have a professional to call for help?
If you plan to hire someone, then you will need to know about them. Use resources like your local government resources as well as the Better Business Bureau to check for bad reviews. Online places like Yelp and social media pages are also a great source of help in this area. If you plan to DIY the project, then have a professional on standby in case you run into a problem too big to fix on your own.
5. Are you using stock or special order materials?
It is okay to think ahead when considering a bathroom remodel job. In fact, you should think ahead because if you have to special order anything, then it could hold up the timeline for getting the job done.
6. Did you consider the small details?
Do you want an outlet that is convenient for hair dryers, curling irons, or electric razors? Maybe you have your eye on some special lights to go over the sink. Speaking of the sink, did you plan to put a mirrored medicine cabinet over it? Or maybe you plan to just go with a mirror in an ornate, vintage looking frame. Be sure to write out everything. You might even keep a small note pad just for this one project as you go along.
Why You Need a Back-up Plan
Most likely, everything will run smoothly and in the end you can enjoy your newly remodeled bathroom. Unfortunately there are times when the “what if” situations in a job like this come true. When that happens, will you be able to pick up and go to a hotel? Do you have friends who can let you bunk in their guest room until your water gets turned back on, for example?
However do not let this stop you from remodeling your bathroom. Worst case scenario situations are few and far between. Just make a list and check it twice. Answer all the above questions. You should be prepared for the worst – but that does not mean that you cannot hope for the best possible outcome. Start planning away, because when the job is done you are going to be thrilled with the results.