Which bathroom upgrades offer the best return on investment? Adding counter space. I work in many historic homes, and the most common complaint is a lack of surface area to get ready. Whether that means extending the vanity or integrating a second sink, added counter space always increases daily functionality, and buyers notice that. What bathroom materials hold up best over time? Porcelain tile is always a smart, timeless choice. It's non-porous, stain-resistant, and much more durable than natural stone - which often requires sealing and ongoing maintenance. If you're considering wallpaper, always go with a vinyl wallcovering in a bathroom, traditional paper won't hold up in humid conditions. What's one design mistake that may hurt resale value? Trying to appeal to everyone. Ironically, going too neutral or trend-driven can make a home feel forgettable. Many of my clients complain that their newer homes feels too builder-grade. A well-designed space that reflects the home's character stands out in a sea of builder-grade beige. Also, don't remove every bathtub. Even if you prefer showers, at least one tub in the home is important for resale. What are some timeless upgrades that still feel modern? As an interior designer who specializes in historic home renovations, I always relate my design choices to the architecture of the home. When finishes feel grounded in the house's original character, rather than what's trending on Instagram, the space will remain intentional and timeless. Advice for someone renovating a bathroom with long-term value in mind? Choose durable materials, avoid fads, and start with your lifestyle. That floating vanity might look sleek now, but will you regret not having more drawer space in a year? Think about how you live, how much storage you need, and how the space will age over time. Long-term value starts with thoughtful, practical decisions. Courtney Batten Owner/Principal Interior Designer Paige Studio www.paige-studio.com
As a luxury interior designer in New York, I've found that investing in high-quality, timeless materials yields the best ROI for bathrooms. Natural stone like marble (particularly in neutral tones) and handcrafted tile work lift the space while maintaining long-term appeal. Custom vanities with quality hardware also consistently retain value better than pre-fabricated options. For durability, I recommend brass fixtures with living finishes that develop beautiful patinas over time. In a recent Upper East Side renovation, we installed unlacquered brass fixtures that have gracefully aged, becoming more beautiful than when first installed. Quality porcelain that mimics natural stone also offers exceptional longevity without the maintenance concerns. A major design mistake is following ultra-trendy color schemes or patterns in permanent fixtures. I've seen clients regret bold concrete tile installations that quickly feel dated. Instead, introduce trends through easily replaceable elements like wall coverings, accessories, or paint. For a modern yet timeless bathroom, focus on clean lines with architectural interest. Coffered ceilings, thoughtfully designed shower niches, and neat window treatments create visual impact without feeling trendy. In a Brooklyn Heights project, we incorporated a curbless shower with simple subway tile and black accents that feels both current and classic.
As the founder of Peak Builders & Roofers, I've overseen hundreds of bathroom remodels across Southern California and Denver, consistently seeing 80% ROI on strategically planned renovations. For maximum return on investment, high-quality plumbing fixtures paired with efficient layouts deliver the best value. Our data shows that reconfiguring bathroom traffic flow to allow seamless movement between toilet, sink and shower without obstacles can increase property valuation by 10-15% compared to identical bathrooms with awkward layouts. Porcelain tile consistently outperforms other materials for long-term durability and value retention. When we revisit projects from 7+ years ago, porcelain installations still look pristine while lower-quality materials often show significant wear, directly impacting resale potential. The costliest mistake is neglecting energy efficiency. Our analyses demonstrate that bathroom remodels incorporating low-flow fixtures, LED lighting and proper insulation not only command 12-18% higher resale values but become major selling points as utility costs rise. In Denver specifically, energy-efficient bathrooms sell 22% faster than comparable properties. For timeless design that won't date, I recommend investing in modern fixtures with clean lines. We've tracked design trends across thousands of properties and found that simple, streamlined fixture designs maintain appeal far longer than ornate or heavily stylized options.
WHICH BATHROOM UPGRADES OFFER THE BEST RETURN ON INVESTMENT? A well-thought-out remodel of a bathroom can have an average return on investment of 72.7% which makes it among the biggest home improvement value propositions. Walk-in showers, luxury vanities, and top-level countertops tend to provide positive resale value, but the factor that makes the most difference is heated flooring, which adds both comfort and efficiency, thus increasing the chances of interest from buyers. SOME BATHROOM FEATURES OR MATERIALS THAT HOLD UP BEST OVER TIME Durability is critical in the high-moisture contingent of a bathroom. Porcelain or ceramic tiles are the way to go for flooring as well as walls because of the non-porous surface and ease of maintenance. Quartz countertops outperform natural stone because they are longer-lasting and don't require sealing since they resist stains and water! Cast iron bathtubs are the best option for a fixture, as they are incredibly durable. Fireclay sinks as well perform the same purpose with terrific longevity through daily usage and aesthetics. ONE DESIGN MISTAKE THAT MAY HURT RESALE VALUE LATER Too much personalization or excess luxury addition can be a detriment to resale value. If a bathroom is overly niche oriented or luxurious (like an ultra-modern bathroom in an older home with traditional flavor) it can result in losing potential buyers. Further, when a buyer is expecting a soaking style tub and a shower on the verge of removal could limit interest for families with very young children. TIMELESS UPGRADES THAT FEEL MODERN BUT WON'T LOOK DATED IN 10 YEARS? Timeless style can take a classic form, with a modern twist, for longevity. Black and white color schemes, subway tiles, and freestanding tubs show style through the decade as classic pieces. Matte finishes on faucets, frameless glass showers, and neutral stone countertops showcase modern and classic beauty at the same time. WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE RENOVATING A BATHROOM WITH LONG-TERM VALUE IN MIND? Make the space functionally smart and energy efficient, while appealing to a broad audience. Features like low-flow toilets, LED lighting, and radiant floor heating save the occupant utility costs, but also follow the trends in buyer sustainability. Stay true to neutral palettes and good materials while the style can change in decades to come. Seymen Usta Title: Founder & CEO, Interior Designer Company: Modern Chandelier Website: https://modernchandelier.com/
As a tile contractor with over 20 years of experience and owner of JG Stone & Tile, I've seen hundreds of bathroom renovations that either maintained or lost value over time. The highest ROI bathroom upgrade is undoubtedly a properly waterproofed shower system. My clients who invest in TCNA/ANSI-compliant waterproofing beneath their tile avoid the $15,000+ remediation costs that inevitably hit homeowners with improperly waterproofed showers after 5-7 years. Large-format porcelain tile is the best material for long-term durability. Unlike natural stone that requires regular resealing, today's porcelain mimics marble, wood, and concrete while being virtually maintenance-free and resistant to staining, scratching, and moisture damage. The most costly design mistake is following ultra-trendy tile patterns that quickly date your bathroom. I recently had clients spending $8,000 to replace perfectly functional fish scale tiles installed just 6 years ago because they screamed "2017 renovation." For timeless yet modern appeal, stick with subtle geometric patterns like herringbone layouts using classic rectangular tiles. This approach maintains visual interest while letting other elements like fixtures be the focal point that can be inexpensively updated later.
I think one of the best ROI upgrades in a bathroom is underfloor heating—it's invisible, luxurious, and immediately noticeable during colder months. I also always recommend walk-in, curbless showers with frameless glass. Not only do they make the space feel bigger, but they also tick the box for accessibility, which more and more buyers are looking for. When it comes to durable materials, I go for porcelain or large-format tiles—they're low-maintenance, less likely to crack, and still feel high-end. Natural stone is beautiful, but I've seen it age poorly when not sealed or maintained properly—so I always weigh aesthetic with upkeep. A big mistake I see that hurts resale is going too trendy with fixtures—like matte black or rose gold everything. These are gorgeous today, but I've had clients asking for replacements after just a few years. Stick to classic finishes like brushed nickel or chrome, and let the accessories do the trend-testing. Floating vanities with integrated lighting are a perfect example of timeless-meets-modern—they offer storage, style, and a sense of openness that feels fresh without being faddish. For anyone renovating with longevity in mind, I say focus on comfort, quality, and light. Natural lighting, neutral palettes, and layered artificial lighting (task + ambient) will always feel elegant and welcoming. And please—don't forget ventilation. A high-quality, quiet fan is one of the most underrated upgrades and prevents so many issues down the line.
As president of EMC Remodeling in Temple, Texas, I've seen that walk-in showers with proper waterproofing provide excellent ROI. In Central Texas, we regularly replace tub-shower combos with curbless showers that instantly modernize homes while appealing to both aging homeowners and young families. For longevity, James Hardie cement board backing in wet areas has proven exceptional compared to standard greenboard. This material withstands our humid Texas climate without deteriorating, and when paired with quality tile work, creates bathroom foundations that last decades with minimal maintenance. The biggest mistake I see affecting resale value is improper ventilation. Many bathrooms in Texas homes have undersized exhaust fans that lead to mold issues behind seemingly beautiful finishes. We always recommend upgrading to higher CFM fans appropriate for the square footage, often with humidity sensors for automatic operation. For renovations with lasting value, consider incorporating on-site fabricated seamless gutters techniques into your bathroom design. Just as we custom-cut gutters at homes for perfect fits without leak-prone seams, bathroom renovations benefit from custom shower niches and properly sloped shower pans. These custom solutions prevent water intrusion issues that plague bathrooms with prefabricated, one-size-fits-all components.
After 20+ years in real estate and construction, I've seen bathroom renovations make or break property values. As both a licensed broker and general contractor, my teams have sold over $2 billion in real estate and I've learned what truly matters in bathroom design. Heated floors consistently deliver the best ROI in our coastal Carolina projects - they're relatively inexpensive to install during renovation (about $5-8/sq ft) but create massive perceived luxury value. Our data from ez Home Search shows homes with this feature sell 17% faster in cooler climate markets. The biggest mistake I see is poor ventilation systems. I recently toured a stunning $1.2M waterfront listing in West Palm Beach where inadequate ventilation had caused extensive hidden mold damage, dropping the offer price by $80K. Always invest in high-CFM, whisper-quiet fans with humidity sensors. For timeless yet modern appeal, our most successful projects incorporate wall-mounted faucets with separate temperature and volume controls. They create a clean, minimalist look that's functional and easier to maintain since water doesn't pool on countertops. They've been a standout feature in our luxury builds since 2010 and still receive positive feedback from current buyers.
Vice President of Operations & Integrator at Task Master Inc.
Answered a year ago
As Operations Leader at Task Masters, I've overseen hundreds of bathroom renovations across Minnesota that have significantly increased home values. Bathrooms that offer the best ROI typically include walk-in showers with frameless glass doors and high-quality tile work, which we've seen return 70-85% of investment costs while dramatically improving daily quality of life. For durability, porcelain tile flooring and quartz countertops have proven exceptional in Minnesota's climate fluctuations. We installed these materials in a Lakeville home renovation where the bathroom still looks brand new after 7 years of heavy use, requiring minimal maintenance despite our harsh seasonal changes. The most costly design mistake I see is choosing ultra-trendy fixtures or bold colored tiles. Recently, we remediated a bathroom with bright teal penny tiles that immediately dated the space and cost the homeowner $8,500 to replace during pre-sale renovations. For timeless yet modern upgrades, focus on clean lines, neutral palette with subtle texture variation, and quality hardware in brushed nickel or matte black. We completed a Minneapolis renovation incorporating these elements with floating vanities and curbless showers that satisfied both the homeowner's contemporary taste while maintaining broad market appeal.
As an electrical contractor who's overseen hundreds of bathroom renovations through Grounded Solutions, I've seen that proper electrical planning delivers incredible ROI. Smart lighting systems with programmable LED fixtures typically add $1,500-2,000 in value while costing about $800-1,200 to install. They provide energy savings and create ambiance that traditional lighting can't match. Heated flooring remains the ultimate luxury upgrade that maintains value. We've installed systems in Indianapolis homes that continue functioning flawlessly after 15+ years with zero maintenance. The electrical components are completely concealed and protected from moisture issues that plague other bathroom features. The most costly mistake I see is inadequate electrical outlet planning. A bathroom with poorly positioned or insufficient GFCIs becomes immediately dated when users can't power modern devices where they need them. I recommend installing at least one outlet with integrated USB ports near each sink area. For future-proofing, integrated ventilation systems with humidity sensors have transformed our customers' bathrooms. These systems automatically adjust based on moisture levels, preventing mold growth and extending the life of all other bathroom components. The technology remains hidden while silently protecting your investment year after year.
Which bathroom upgrades offer the best return on investment? Sweat Equity: A Walk-In Shower Is a Good Investment Read More >> If nothing else, they can expedite the sale: Particularly when they're curbless and accompanied by frameless glass, they provide an immediate lift to the space and speak to both younger and older buyers. Dual vanities also score high, especially in a primary bathroom — there's real utility in making it possible for two people to use the space at the same time. In a flip we completed in Des Moines, we took out a tub that was hardly ever used to replace it with a massive walk-in shower with a pair of built-in niches and matte black fixtures. The open feeling was enough to make the bathroom sell itself before the buyers even got around to the rest of the house. What are some bathroom features or materials that hold up best over time? The porcelain tile is a workhorse. It can stand up to moisture, wear and staining, and is a whole lot less finicky than natural stone. We like the way large-format porcelain looks on floors and shower walls — there are fewer grout lines to clean, and the look will be more contemporary longer. When it comes to countertops, quartz is basically indestructible. There's also a rental property that we installed quartz in five years ago with five tenants since and it still looks brand new — no resealing, no worries. What's one design mistake that may hurt resale value later? Over-customizing. We once stepped into a flip whose bathroom was tiled floor to ceiling in a vibrant teal, and that included the ceiling. It was aggressive, yes, but it immediately winnowed out the buyer pool. As for design, you can appreciate bold taste, but too many potential buyers will be wondering what it will cost to "fix." Keep it neutral on the big surfaces and let some personality show in things you can easily change — mirrors, paint, hardware. Are there any timeless upgrades that feel modern but won't look dated in 10 years? Floating vanities are an excellent example — they feel contemporary and modern but they're not trendy in a way that makes them susceptible to being tacky. Add to that integrated LED mirrors that are as functional as they are flashy. We began using wall-mounted vanities with under-cabinet lighting about six years ago, and they are still the things we get compliments on. And black or brushed brass finishes are less harsh than chrome, and although they reference trends, they have quietly become classics.
As a third-generation cabinetmaker who's transformed G&M Craftsman Cabinets into a high-end custom joinery business, I've seen which bathroom features truly stand the test of time on the Sunshine Coast. Bespoke storage solutions offer exceptional ROI - pull-out drawers and recessed shelving maximize functionality without sacrificing aesthetics. Our clients who invest in custom-sized cabinetry to fit their specific bathroom dimensions see their home values increase significantly more than those using standard-sized vanities. Natural stone or engineered stone countertops paired with high-quality hardware are worth every penny for longevity. I've revisited projects from 10+ years ago where these materials still look impeccable, while cheaper alternatives required replacement. The biggest mistake I see is prioritizing trendy fixtures over quality craftsmanship. Many homeowners spend thousands on designer taps but skimp on the cabinetry construction, leading to warping and damage that drastically reduces resale value. For timeless appeal that feels contemporary, I recommend investing in custom joinery with clean lines and minimal ornamentation. A well-designed combination of enclosed cabinets and open shelving creates visual interest while remaining practical - this approach has remained desirable across multiple design cycles over my 23 years in the industry.
As the CEO of Revive Construction + Restoration, I've overseen numerous luxury bathroom renovations where ROI is crucial. The best returns consistently come from high-quality tile work, modern fixtures, and proper waterproofing systems - investments that typically return 60-70% of costs at resale while preventing costly water damage repairs down the road. For longevity, porcelain tile continues to outperform other materials in both durability and style retention. We've installed these in projects ranging from Four Seasons hotels to high-end commercial spaces, and they still look pristine years later. Solid surface countertops and quality plumbing fixtures from reputable manufacturers also maintain their appeal and functionality far longer than budget alternatives. The biggest design mistake I see repeatedly is installing trendy colored fixtures that quickly look dated. At a recent commercial property renovation, we replaced perfectly functional pink toilets and sinks that had destroyed the property's value simply because they screamed "1980s" to potential buyers. For timeless upgrades that feel modern, focus on clean lines, neutral color palettes with purposeful accent colors, and frameless glass shower enclosures. When renovating with long-term value in mind, invest more in what's behind the walls than what's visible - proper waterproofing, quality plumbing, and adequate ventilation will prevent the mold and water damage issues that I've seen devastate bathroom investments across hundreds of restoration projects.
One big mistake I see homeowners make is renovating a bathroom for their own highly specific tastes, without keeping future buyers in mind. They'll remove the only bathtub in the house to create a massive walk-in shower, forgetting that this immediately alienates families with young children. The best return on investment isn't usually found in a single flashy feature, it's achieved through maintaining broad appeal. A bathroom that feels too personal or functionally restrictive will always hurt your resale value. Focus on timeless, neutral choices. You can't go wrong with classic white subway tile, simple quartz countertops, and standard chrome or brushed nickel fixtures. These materials are durable and appeal to almost everyone. Instead of trendy patterns or bold colors, keep the core elements simple. A buyer can easily add personality with paint and accessories. You are selling them a clean, functional, and flexible space - not your personal design statement. That is how you best protect your investment and avoid renovating into a style that feels dated 5-years later.
Full Name: Ryan Tierney Title: Co-Owner Company Name: C.D. Roofing & Construction Ltd. Link for Credit: https://cdroofingltd.com As a construction professional with over 25 years in the industry, I've seen countless bathroom renovations, both in new builds and remodels. Homeowners often ask how to create a space that feels fresh today but holds its value down the line. Here's what I tell them: Which bathroom upgrades offer the best return on investment? Walk-in showers with frameless glass enclosures are a top ROI feature. They appeal to a wide demographic—from young families to aging homeowners—and visually open up the space. Dual vanities, quality ventilation systems, and upgraded lighting also add strong value. In higher-end homes, heated floors can make a difference in both comfort and resale appeal. What are some bathroom features or materials that hold up best over time? Porcelain tile remains the go-to for durability and long-term performance. It's low-maintenance, moisture-resistant, and available in timeless designs. Quartz countertops are another solid investment—resistant to stains and scratches, with clean lines that don't go out of style. In terms of hardware, brushed nickel and matte black finishes tend to age better than trend-based metallics. What's one design mistake that may hurt resale value later? Over-personalizing the space. Bright-colored tiles, ornate vanities, or unconventional layouts may suit current tastes but can be a turn-off for buyers. Stick to a neutral, cohesive palette and let accessories add the personality. Are there any timeless upgrades that feel modern but won't look dated in 10 years? Absolutely—floating vanities, curbless showers, and large-format tiles are all modern touches with staying power. LED mirrors and layered lighting (ambient, task, and accent) are subtle but effective updates that enhance function without being trendy. What advice would you give to someone renovating a bathroom with long-term value in mind? Build with function and longevity first. Choose materials rated for high-moisture environments, and don't cut corners on waterproofing and ventilation—these are the hidden systems that protect your investment. And lastly, work with a reputable contractor who understands both design and structural integrity. A bathroom's value isn't just what you see—it's what's behind the walls too.
Bathroom upgrades that offer the best return on investment include updating vanities with modern finishes, installing new tile flooring, adding energy-efficient lighting, and replacing outdated fixtures with high-quality, contemporary options. Features and materials that hold up best over time include porcelain or ceramic tile, quartz or granite countertops, and high-quality plumbing fixtures with durable finishes like brushed nickel or matte black. One design mistake that can hurt resale value is over-customizing the space with bold colors or highly personalized tile patterns that may not appeal to a broad audience. Timeless upgrades that feel modern but won't look dated in 10 years include classic subway tile, frameless glass shower enclosures, neutral color palettes, and well-placed recessed lighting. For anyone renovating a bathroom with long-term value in mind, I recommend focusing on functional improvements that enhance usability and efficiency, choosing neutral yet high-quality materials, and avoiding overly trendy elements that may fall out of style quickly. Parker McInnis, Owner, Forged Homes and Speedy Sale Home Buyers, Detroit, MI. Email: parker@speedysalehomebuyers.com Website bio: https://www.speedysalehomebuyers.com/about-us/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/parkermcinnis/
As the Manager at Galaxy Concrete Coatings and a specialist in flooring solutions, I've seen how proper bathroom flooring significantly impacts both functionality and resale value. For ROI, polyaspartic concrete coatings in bathrooms deliver exceptional value. Unlike traditional tile with grout lines that collect mold and mildew, our seamless floors create waterproof, sanitary surfaces that last decades with minimal maintenance. We've transformed countless bathrooms with our Saturn Flake system that provides grip while still being easy to clean. Concrete coatings withstand moisture, harsh cleaning chemicals, and temperature fluctuations better than virtually any other flooring option. We recently coated a master bathroom in Phoenix where the homeowner reported their appraisal increased by $8,500 simply from updating the bathroom flooring. One design mistake is using painted concrete without proper coatings. These quickly peel and chip in high-moisture environments, creating a maintenance nightmare within months. Always choose professionally-applied polyaspartic coatings over DIY epoxy kits. For timeless appeal that won't date, neutral quartz systems offer the look of natural stone without the porosity issues. We installed a custom terrazzo-look floor for a client in Colorado last year that provides the perfect balance of modern aesthetics with classic durability. When renovating for long-term value, invest in professional moisture mitigation beneath your coatings. This invisible upgrade prevents future issues that could cost thousands to repair. Our lifetime warranty demonstrates our confidence in properly installed concrete coatings as a bathroom investment that truly lasts.
Hi New Home Source, I'm Ryan Majewski, Senior Operations Officer at CWF Restoration. We've rebuilt more bathrooms than I can count after water, fire, and storm damage. Here's what I'd share with anyone looking to renovate for long-term value. Which bathroom upgrades offer the best return on investment? Walk-in showers with frameless glass always catch a buyer's eye. They're practical, stylish and appeal to just about everyone. Dual vanities are another solid upgrade that make everyday use more comfortable and increase resale value. What features or materials hold up best over time? Porcelain tile is hard to beat. It's durable, water-resistant, and doesn't show wear like some natural stone options. We're also seeing engineered wood-look flooring and high-quality vinyl planks hold up surprisingly well in bathrooms, especially when installed with proper moisture barriers. One design mistake that hurts resale value? Going too bold with color. Bright, overly personalized tiles or paint might reflect your taste, but they usually don't land well with future buyers. Timeless upgrades that won't look dated in 10 years? Subway tile still works in just about every bathroom style. Brushed nickel fixtures give a modern look without being flashy. Advice for renovating with long-term value in mind? Don't just focus on the finishes. Invest in good waterproofing, proper ventilation, and reliable plumbing. These are the things that prevent damage and save you from having to gut the bathroom again in five years. Kind regards, Ryan Majewski Senior Operations Officer, CWF Restoration Website: https://certifiedwaterandfire.com/ Email: rmajewski@cwafr.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-m-b49ab9189/
As the founder of Zinga's, I've seen how window treatments dramatically impact bathroom value while serving over 15,000 homeowners. Custom moisture-resistant window treatments typically return 70-80% of investment while simultaneously addressing privacy concerns that standard solutions miss. For lasting value, I recommend plantation shutters in bathrooms. They're waterproof, won't warp, and have remained stylish for decades. Our installations from 15+ years ago still look fantastic and function perfectly, unlike fabric options that deteriorate in humid environments. The biggest mistake I see is neglecting natural light management. Bathrooms with improperly addressed windows create uncomfortable experiences for guests and future buyers, something I've heard repeatedly during in-home consultations. When renovating for long-term value, invest in small, high-impact upgrades rather than complete overhauls. In our design consultations, we consistently find that thoughtful touches like upgraded window treatments, fresh paint, and modern hardware deliver better ROI than expensive renovations. Focus on elements that improve both function and aesthetic appeal without chasing trends.
As a Master Electrician with 15+ years of experience, I've seen that electrical upgrades in bathrooms offer excellent ROI. Installing proper GFCI outlets with integrated USB charging ports typically returns 80-90% of investment while providing essential safety features and modern convenience. For durability, quality LED lighting systems with proper moisture ratings are unbeatable. We installed these in a Denver bathroom remodel last year that transformed a dark, dated space into something bright and functional, while cutting the client's energy costs by 30%. The biggest mistake I see is inadequate ventilation. Without proper exhaust fans, moisture accumulates, causing premature failure of fixtures and creating mold issues that can cost thousands to remediate. For long-term value, invest in a smart electrical panel upgrade if your home is older. Modern panels support today's higher power demands and provide capacity for future technologies. I recently upgraded a 1970s panel for a client who was finally able to add heated floors and a steam shower without worrying about overloading their system.