Regardless of whether you want to upgrade the bathroom in your rental property because it’s become outdated or you’d simply like to make it more appealing to potential tenants, this project can become more expensive than you realize. However, keeping the following tips in mind will help ensure that you don’t exceed your original budget when performing renovations on your rental home’s bathroom.
Work with what is Already there
Although there’s a lot that can be done to renovate a bathroom, it’s essential that you try not to do too much all at once. Working with the bathroom’s existing layout, design and structure can save thousands of dollars. For instance, relocating items such as bathtubs and toilets could cost as much as $5,000 – per fixture.
Existing design elements in a bathroom can often be upgraded instead of being totally replaced as well. Replacing a frame on a mirror will provide a whole new look, but for a fraction of the cost of a whole new mirror.
Update a Few Fixtures
In many cases, the smallest changes can make the biggest improvement. Although replacing an entire shower stall with a tiled setup would definitely be a significant upgrade, it will also cost a lot. Instead, consider replacing the shower’s hardware instead such as the showerhead and door. Alternatively, just replacing the faucets and drawer pulls on the vanity will provide a whole new look – for a fraction of the cost.
Re-surface and Cover wherever Possible
Covering and re-surfacing existing design elements in your rental home’s bathroom will also go a long way in ensuring that you remain within budget.
A great example here is tiled flooring in that one of the biggest trends at the moment is to replace old tiles with vinyl flooring that looks similar to hardwood. While the vinyl itself is cheap, your flooring project’s cost will escalate quickly if you remove existing tiles and then lay the vinyl. These days, vinyl flooring is available that can simply be laid over an existing tiled floor – cutting your labor cost substantially.
Don’t be Afraid to get your Hands Dirty
Performing a basic remodel on a home’s bathroom is a project that most landlords will be able to take on themselves. However, it will involve a good amount of time and the willingness to get a little grimy.
If you already have the required tools on hand and you’re relatively handy, you’ll be able to replace basic fixtures, lay vinyl flooring, swap out basic hardware and give the walls a fresh coat of paint. The only aspects that will require a professional plumber are those such as relocating sinks, tubs, showers and toilets.
Although it’s tempting to purchase the cheapest fixtures you can find, this is not recommended. Opting for slightly costlier faucets and other fixtures will ensure that they not only last longer; they will look better overall as well. Contact us today if you would like to find out about obtaining a loan for rental home improvement projects like these.
