Thinking about remodeling your bathroom? You’re not alone. For many homeowners, updating an outdated bathroom feels like a no-brainer—especially if you’re considering putting your house on the market.
A fresh, modern bathroom can definitely increase the appeal of your home, and it might even help it sell faster. But is it financially worth it if your only goal is to sell?
Let’s break it down.
Is a Bathroom Remodel a Good Investment?
On the surface, remodeling your bathroom seems like a smart move. After all, buyers love updated spaces, and a beautiful bathroom can leave a lasting impression.
But here’s the catch: The average bathroom remodel costs around $20,000, and most homeowners only recoup about 66% of that when they sell. That means you might spend $20,000 and only increase your home’s value by about $13,000.
So if you’re remodeling just to sell your home, you could actually lose money in the process.
When a Bathroom Remodel Makes Sense
While the return on investment isn’t always strong if you’re selling right away, a remodel might still be worth it if you plan to live in your home for a while longer.
Why?
Because you’ll get to enjoy the benefits of your new bathroom—more space, better functionality, and a fresh aesthetic—before eventually passing that value on to a future buyer.
Think of it as a lifestyle upgrade and a partial investment.
Tips for a Successful Bathroom Remodel
If you decide to go ahead with the remodel, here are a few things to keep in mind to get the most bang for your buck:
🧾 1. Create a Budget (And Stick to It)
Before you do anything, set a realistic budget. Bathroom remodels can spiral quickly when you’re choosing tile, vanities, fixtures, and finishes. Know how much you’re willing to spend—and build in a buffer for unexpected costs (because there will be some).
👷 2. Hire a Professional
Unless you’re an experienced contractor, it’s best to leave bathroom remodeling to the pros. A poorly executed renovation can hurt your home’s value rather than help it—and plumbing mistakes in particular can become very expensive very quickly.
A licensed contractor will help ensure:
- The work meets local codes
- The project stays on schedule
- The final result looks polished and professional
🪵 3. Choose Durable, High-Quality Materials
When selecting materials, aim for durability and longevity, especially in a moisture-prone space like a bathroom. It might be tempting to cut costs with cheaper materials, but you’ll thank yourself later for investing in quality.
Examples:
- Choose ceramic, marble, or granite over laminate countertops
- Go for porcelain or stone tile instead of vinyl
- Opt for water-resistant finishes and mold-resistant paint
These choices will not only make your bathroom look better—they’ll help it last longer.
Should You Remodel Just to Sell?
Here’s the bottom line:
If your bathroom is functioning fine but just a little outdated, and you’re planning to sell your house soon, it might not make sense to invest in a full remodel.
However, you can still make smaller cosmetic upgrades that provide a boost without breaking the bank:
- Re-grout tiles
- Replace hardware (faucets, drawer pulls)
- Install a new mirror or light fixture
- Paint the walls with a fresh, neutral color
These simple touches can freshen up the space and attract more buyers—without the $20,000 price tag.
Want to Skip the Repairs and Sell As-Is?
If the thought of investing time and money into a bathroom remodel just to sell your house sounds overwhelming, you have another option.
At PineCone Properties, we buy houses as-is, no repairs or upgrades required. Whether your bathroom needs a full renovation or just a few touch-ups, we’ll make you a fair cash offer in as little as 48 hours.
You won’t have to:
- Hire a contractor
- Schedule showings
- Clean or stage your home
- Wait months for the right buyer
We’ll handle everything and close on your timeline—even in as little as two weeks.
Final Thoughts
A bathroom remodel can be a wonderful investment—if you’re planning to enjoy it yourself for a few more years. It adds comfort, style, and functionality to your home. But if you’re thinking about remodeling just to sell, be cautious: the financial return might not justify the expense.
And remember, you don’t have to renovate to sell.
If you’d prefer to sell your house as-is without spending thousands on updates, PineCone Properties can help. We buy houses in any condition and make fair, fast cash offers—no repairs, no agent fees, and no waiting.
📞 Call us today at (360) 572-6669 or visit our Contact Us to get started. We can provide an offer within 48 hours and close in as little as two weeks.
Let’s make your next move simple.