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Don’t Flush Bathroom Renovation Dollars Down the Drain
By Alison Markham, Broker-Associate, GRI, Realtor® | February 20, 2008
Looking for bathroom bliss? You’re not alone. Bathroom renovations consistently score as one of the most-desired home improvements. Improving your bathroom will not only add to your own enjoyment of your home, but it can increase its value and make it more attractive to potential buyers if you choose to sell your home.
However, you need to take the time to make sure you are getting the bathroom you want. Bungled bathroom renovations can cost you big time – in frustration, value and repair dollars. “The bathroom is no place for novice do-it-yourselfers,” says Paige Thomas of ReliableRemodeler.com, an online service that helps homeowners connect with qualified contractors in their area. “Finding the right contractor for your remodel can mean the difference between a bathroom renovation that leaves you flushed with pride, or one that sends your spirits – not to mention your investment – down the drain.”
Before you take out the toilet, scrap the shower, or dump the sink, keep the following bathroom renovation secrets in mind:
* Any improvement can add value. Simply switching faucets, upgrading lights and installing new towel bars can give the room a whole new look. A fresh coat of paint and re-grouting existing tile can also work wonders.
*Check out all your options. Replacing everything in your bathroom may not always be an option within your budget, so be sure to check out the numerous alternatives available for bathroom renovations. For example, if you hate your tub or shower, but totally replacing it isn’t in the budget, there are a number of surrounds and coverings that can now be installed right over the existing tub or shower. These kinds of alternatives can save you time and money.
* Natural stone is the new luxury bathroom material. For a really upscale look, granite, slate, travertine and other natural stones evoke the look of a luxury spa. The spa look is currently the hot design trend for baths. Using natural stone as an accent will make your bathroom an example of up-to-the-moment home remodeling looks.
* Discuss all the details. When you talk to potential contractors be sure to talk about every aspect of your remodel, especially about how long your bath will be out of commission. You want to make sure that you and the contractor you choose have the same ideas and plans so there will be no surprises or problems as the project goes on.
* Get multiple quotes. When looking for a contractor, get multiple quotes. Be sure to ask for multiple references and talk to former customers to see how quickly and with what level of quality the contractor completed the work. You will also want to verify their licensing and bonding.
Need assistance to start your bathroom remodel and find a local, quality contractor? Let ReliableRemodeler.com help! Submit a request online for your remodeling project and a project adviser will contact you within 24 business hours to verify receipt of your project request and clarify any further details. Up to four member contractors will contact you within 48 business hours to schedule a free estimate on your project. A project adviser will follow up with you to make sure you are satisfied with the service you received. Finally, you decide on the contractor that’s right for your project and get started!
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