Bathroom upgrades are often the top priority for new rental property owners, causing them to spend far more money than they need to. There’s a misconception that a high-end bathroom will automatically lead to increased rental rates, but this is seldom the case. An expensive bathroom remodeling project usually doesn’t boost rental rates or property value as expected. To maximize rent and value, less costly and more durable options should be the focus. Avoid the “dream bathroom” approach when it comes to a rental property.
Budget-Friendly Bathroom Upgrades: Avoiding Costly Overhauls
Improving a rental property requires thoughtful, budget-conscious planning to ensure every dollar is well spent. Unfortunately, bathrooms are one of the areas where new property owners often overspend. Some think they need to overhaul every bathroom in their rental house to create an upgraded look, but this can quickly become a financial burden. 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.
A high-end bathroom doesn’t necessarily add as much value or appeal as many believe. Renters generally want rental homes with consistent quality throughout. Depending on the market, properties with luxury bathrooms but less luxurious features in other rooms may actually turn prospective renters away rather than attracting them. Inconsistent quality from room to room can signal potential maintenance issues, which is a red flag for tenants.
Affordable Bathroom Upgrades Tenants Appreciate Without the High Maintenance
Many renters don’t want high-end upgrades, as they aren’t looking for items that require constant upkeep. For instance, you may spend thousands on a whirlpool tub or other upgrades a renter may never use. High-end construction materials also tend to be fragile and more prone to damage, leading to expensive repairs compared to more durable products. Choosing materials that can withstand less-than-ideal conditions is essential for rental properties, as this minimizes potential issues from items that may leak or break down.
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.
Selecting the right bathroom upgrades that will create a rental property appealing to your target renters can be challenging. Real Property Management Bay Area has the expertise and resources to help you choose upgrades that will increase your property values and attract prospective renters in Sonomarin. We ensure the work is completed within budget and on time. For more information, contact us online or call us at 650-696-1800.
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