These $100 and Up Bathroom Renovation Ideas Will Increase the Value of Your House

Everyone wants an updated bathroom (or is dreaming up bathroom renovation ideas). Putting money into the loo is not only pretty on the eyes, it can actually give you a solid return on your investment. The average midrange bathroom remodel costs $27,164, according to the latest Remodeling Cost versus Value report, and it’s projected that you will recoup 58.9% of that cost when reselling your home. Even if your new resale value doesn’t skyrocket, a home with a dated bathroom can work against you. Buyers may lowball your offer or even skip putting in a bid altogether. 

When it comes to choosing materials and finishes, those focusing on resale value should consider timeless design. “Nickel tones are the most popular for a bathroom,” says Shoshanna Shapiro, the owner and principal designer at Sho and Co. in Washington, DC. Shapiro also recommends avoiding trends and choosing a more timeless look for retail value. “Real stone tile from places like Floor&Decor and the Home Depot are reasonable in price.”

Even without a full upgrade, you can still make sizable improvements on any budget—whether it’s $100, $1,000, or $10,000. See how these bathroom renovation ideas could give your whole house a run for its money. 

Spend $100

Even if you’re on a tight budget and only have $100 to spend, you can change the look of your bathroom and avoid common bathroom renovation mistakes. “Hands down the easiest and most inexpensive bathroom upgrade a homeowner can make is replacing existing drawer pulls and vanity hardware,” says Devin Shaffer, lead interior designer at Decorilla in New York. “Believe it or not, this simple swap of the pulls and knobs can give the look of a $1,000-plus light remodel project.” In fact, Shaffer says you can purchase bathroom hardware for as low as 50 cents per piece, and he recommends that you get 5 to 10 returnable options to take home and test them out.

Spend $300

A fresh coat of paint can update any space, and the bathroom is no exception. Houston designer Mary Patton of Mary Patton Design recommends painting the entire bathroom one color. “Consider opting for a bold shade. It will make the room feel updated and refreshed.” And don’t underestimate the little touches, like a tiny bouquet, especially during an open house. “Another thing I love is to update bath linens, candles, and hand soaps by season to add a special touch to the bathroom,” Patton says.

Spend $500

In addition to painting the bathroom’s walls and ceilings, you can actually use paint to update old ceramic tile. “Painting tile is a great way to give a fresh look to outdated bathrooms,” Shapiro says. Take it a step further and install all new bathroom fixtures for a bigger wow factor. “Elbow grease and creativity provide the biggest impact on a small budget,” she adds.

Spend $1,000

If you have an open vanity, Shaffer warns that some buyers may not like the idea of not having any storage—especially if this is a smaller vanity in a powder room or a guest bathroom. “For those of you still living with an open vanity and frustrated by a lack of storage space, going with a storage vanity will change your life—and appeal to buyers,” he says. Replacing a vanity, as long as you don’t start moving or adjusting plumbing, can cost you as much as a grand, but the effect will be, well, grandiose. 

Spend $2,000

With a budget of up to $2,000 you should have enough to swap out the mirror, lighting, and even play with adding affordable tile, Shapiro says. Don’t think that all beautiful tile is a budget breaker, at least not if you use it wisely. Instead of covering a wall floor-to-ceiling, add strips or an accent niche to your shower. 

Spend $5,000

For $5,000, consider this bathroom renovation idea: a wet room. This type of space allows the shower to be on the same level as the rest of the floor—completely waterproofed, of course, and a surprising delight for buyers. “Wet rooms are an incredible way to make the most out of a bathroom’s footprint, as they negate the use of walls,” Shaffer says. “They are also one of the most hygienic bathroom types, and they allow lighting to disperse evenly, reducing any type of shadowing effect.” Bonus: A one-level bath space makes it safer for all ages since you’re eliminating barriers and hazards, like steps and unnecessary corners. 

Spend $10,000

Lake Charles, Louisiana-based Lance Thomas at Thomas Guy Interiors says $10,000 can get you the ultimate renovation: a new shower or tub installation. “The shower is the focal point of the bathroom, so it’s one of the most high-impact upgrades you can make.” But he admits that it’s also one of the most expensive bathroom renovation ideas. Don’t rush to choose a style that’s best suited for your home. Consider replacing a corner platform tub à la ’90s with a huge walk-in in the primary suite. On the other hand, Thomas says adding a tub in a family bathroom that could be used by kids can draw prospective buyers.

A water closet is another project that will improve the functionality, especially for a couple who will likely use the space simultaneously. Think of it this way, if you have double sinks, a WC adds privacy without interrupting a morning or evening routine. “Those days of waiting for your partner to get out of the shower will end,” Shaffer says. However, he admits that a water closet may not appeal to a certain segment of the buying market. “This type of project is advised for those that plan to stay in their homes for at least five years, so that they can enjoy it,” he adds.