Whether you are considering selling or remaining in your home for years to come, investing in home improvement just makes sense. How can you go wrong by improving something that you own, regardless of the current economic climate? If for no other reason, your home remodel project will make your home more comfortable and enjoyable for your personal use. Most people do remodel purposely with the intent of getting a good return on their investment; however, this cannot be expected right away. It typically will take at least an additional year or two to realize a return of 80% to 90%. Of course, the longer that you remain in your home, the more money you can make on the initial investment in your improvements, as you allow the real estate market time to increase your property values.
For an overall return on investment, the Wall Street Journal rates bathroom remodeling as one of the top home remodel improvements to do. Is it worth the money to remodel your bathroom? Remember that the bathroom is one of the busiest, most used, space in your home; as such, the constant use (combined with moisture) contributes to the development of structural concerns, like water damage, over time. The potential cost in loss of value to your home, should needed repairs go unaddressed, would, of course, be counterproductive to any discussion of return on your investment.
Do some research, set a realistic budget, and look through books and magazines to get some ideas. Also, check with a professional. Your local plumbing contractor can help with wading through all of the options available to you, and with helping you define exactly what you would like to accomplish.
