Next to the kitchen, bathroom upgrades are often a major focus for new rental property owners. However, they often spend far more money than they need to, believing that a high-end bathroom will translate directly into increased rental rates. In reality, this is seldom the case. More often than not, an expensive bathroom remodeling project does not improve your rental rate or property value as much as you might hope. To maximize rent and value, it’s smarter to focus on less costly and more durable upgrades that make sense for a rental property. Building a dream bathroom might sound appealing, but it is a mistake you can easily avoid.
Budget-Friendly Bathroom Upgrades: Avoiding Costly Overhauls
Improving a rental property calls for budget-conscious planning to get the best return on your investment. Without it, you may end up spending on upgrades that don’t deliver a meaningful return. Bathrooms are often one area where new property owners overspend, thinking they must remodel every bathroom in their rental house to achieve an upgraded look. According to Remodeling Magazine’s “Cost vs Value” report, an average full remodel of a bathroom costs around $25,000, while an upscale remodel can cost $75,000 or more.
The problem is that a high-end bathroom doesn’t add as much to your property’s value or appeal as you’d think. Tenants are looking for rental homes that have a consistent level of quality throughout.
But a high-end bathroom rarely adds as much to your property’s value or appeal as you might assume. Tenants generally look for rental homes that offer a consistent level of quality across all rooms. If your property has luxury bathrooms but lacks comparable finishes in other rooms, you risk turning away prospective renters. Inconsistent quality from room to room may suggest maintenance and repair issues, leading renters to question the property’s upkeep.
Affordable Bathroom Upgrades Tenants Appreciate Without the High Maintenance
Interestingly, many renters don’t actually want high-end upgrades, as they often require more time and effort to maintain. Tenants prefer durable, low-maintenance materials that can withstand regular use. For example, a whirlpool tub or other luxury features may go unused by renters and could incur costly repairs if damaged. Opting for durable products that can hold up under less-than-ideal conditions is typically a smarter choice for a rental property.
Creating a bathroom with an upgraded feel (without the upgraded price tag) can be reasonably easy. The trick is to focus on the upgrades that will make the bathroom feel updated without needing a complete overhaul. For example, a quality paint job and some new fixtures will go a long way toward creating a fresh and modern bathroom, as will simply replacing the grout and caulking. Light fixtures, drawer pulls, and towel racks are minor upgrades that give a room a high-end feel.
Consider installing a new one-piece tub and shower surround unit for bathtubs and showers that are ugly or not fully functional. Durable and affordable, they are quick to install and easy to maintain. Higher-end units can give a bathroom an upgraded feel without needing a custom tile job.
Identifying which bathroom upgrades will help you create a rental property that appeals to prospective renters can be a challenge. Real Property Management Quest has the experience and resources needed to guide you in choosing upgrades that will increase property values and draw renters in Desoto. We ensure projects are completed on time and within budget. For more information, contact us online or call us at 214-550-9311.
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