Bathroom Remodel – 4 Fantastic Reasons to Proceed!

If you are a California homeowner, there are 4 fantastic reasons to remodel a bathroom:

1. Increase home value and marketability
2. Improve functionality and safety
3. Create a more modern and comfortable space
4. Enhance health and efficiency while addressing needed repairs

Many of our clients explore a bathroom remodel because of water damage and other necessary repairs. However, they find a bathroom remodel can come to meet many of their other needs as well, while also improving water and energy efficiencies that can lead to savings on their utility bill.

Reason #1: Increased Home Value and Marketability

A renovated or remodeled bathroom in a California home often serves as a major selling point, boosting your property’s resale value upon sale. Modern, updated bathrooms add value to most any home, but are especially important as a competitive value-add in the California home market.

In fact, when you remodel the bathroom in your California home, you can expect a return on investment (ROI) of about 60%-80%. If you choose to add an additional bathroom, especially in a single-bath home, you can expect an ROI of 80%-90%, or better. 

Any bathroom remodel that emphasizes water and energy efficient upgrades can qualify for special California rebates and federal tax credits which then reduce the net cost of your remodel. In fact, you can claim a credit for 30% of the cost of qualifying energy-efficient improvements made through December 31, 2025, up to a maximum of $3,200 per year. Installing a new, high-efficiency water heater or upgrading windows and skylights in your bathroom can also be included in your tax credit. 

There are state and local rebates, as well, so be sure to check into these to help with the costs. Be advised, however, that rebates are not retroactive. Consequently, you need to apply, and be pre-approved, before starting your remodel work. Also note that you may only claim federal tax credits for bathroom improvements made to your primary residence.

Reason #2: Improved Functionality and Personal Safety

When considering a bathroom remodel, know that a reimagined bathroom layout can create more usable space and far greater functionality. Installation of custom cabinetry can provide an excellent storage solution as well as help to keep your bathroom clutter-free while also reducing potential tripping hazards.

Many of our clients improve efficiency and optimize space by moving the location of their toilet, tub, and shower, and by adding counter space, cabinetry or shelving, as well as by including seating and recessed niches in their showers to hold their body wash, shampoo, conditioner, shaving supplies, and more.

A bathroom remodel can certainly remedy the usual wear and tear common to a bathroom by replacing old, rusty fixtures and chipped tiles with attractive, modern (touchfree) fixtures, and by selecting beautiful vanity countertops made of quartz, marble, or granite which are available in a wide assortment of colors and textures. 

You can also Improve safety and mobility for your aging or disabled household members by remodeling your bathroom to accommodate wheelchairs or by installing grab bars.

Reason #3: Create A More Modern and Comfortable Space

Many of our clients are adding spa-like features to their bathroom remodel, such as walk-in showers and freestanding tubs. They are also incorporating smart technologies like heated floors, a digital faucet, a towel warming drawer, and anti-fog mirrors for a more pampered experience. Also common, several of our clients are choosing natural elements and light colors to create an airy, spacious feel. In combination, these bathroom features create a more modern and comfortable space – and add a great deal to your home’s marketability upon sale. You can go luxurious, or you can keep it simple. We are happy to do whatever best suits your aesthetic tastes while honoring your budget.

For a more updated look, consider a floating vanity. Such a feature makes the space feel much larger. Rainfall showerheads are also favored for greater comfort and that spa-like ambiance. I’m often asked about the range of bathroom remodel options available, and I enjoy sharing these with every new client who may be seeking ideas as well as advice on how best to work within their budget and yet honor their bathroom remodel dreams.

Reason #4: Address Health, Efficiency, and Needed Repairs

There are a number of things you can do to address health and efficiency, as well as source the proper remedy to any necessary repairs. First and foremost, it’s critical to address all underlying plumbing leaks, electrical problems, and structural damage before proceeding with any cosmetic upgrades. It’s vitally important to accurately assess and fully address needed repairs, such as leaks or water intrusion issues, and to remedy the common problems of simple wear and tear to prevent more expensive problems down the line. I often recommend replacing all old and corroded pipes with new ones to prevent future leaks, to make new fixtures work correctly and last longer, as well as to ensure water quality. 

All electrical outlets, switches, and wiring need to be brought up to current code, particularly when near water sources. To ensure instant hot water and energy savings, consider replacing your old water heater with a more energy-efficient tankless water heater.

I also invite my clients to consider installing water-saving fixtures, such as low-flow faucets and toilets, to reduce water usage and total water bill. Any energy-efficient bathroom upgrades will help you to lower your overall energy costs, and you may be able to take advantage of special rebate programs offered by utility companies.

To improve your health as well as the longevity of your bathroom, a particular consideration of high importance is bathroom ventilation. Poor ventilation is often the source of problems with the growth of mold and mildew as well as being the reason for reduced indoor air quality. 

If your remodel also includes modifications done for medical reasons – such as installing grab bars or widening doorways – be sure to check with your tax person before you begin your bathroom remodel as you may be able to claim them as a medical expense on your taxes. This is provided the modification was undertaken to alleviate or prevent pain caused by a disability. Disability modifications can also help ensure homeowners are better able to age in place within their own homes.

Ready to Remodel or Add a Bathroom? Call Ed Neir Construction!

Ed Neir is a full-service, actively licensed, bonded, and insured general contractor, who can help you design, plan, and efficiently manage your bathroom remodel or addition from start to finish. Known for his effective communication, reliability, and high integrity, Ed will work with you to ensure your remodeled or added bathroom will be affordably and masterfully completed on time and to exacting industry standards. For a free consultation, call 707-999-5878 or text 408-368-7162.

Ed Neir, General Contractor
License #: 928715