| There are a number of things you can do to control | | | | floors turn off buyers. But they like ceramic tile, |
| the costs of remodeling any bathroom. Many are | | | | stone or wood. |
| surprisingly inexpensive. Here are seven suggestions | | | | 7. Go for a look that goes with the architecture of |
| to help you get through it without breaking the bank. | | | | the house. If people like the exterior they expect the |
| 1. Leave fixtures in the same locations. Making huge | | | | interior to match. If the house is Tudor the bath |
| plumbing alterations requires a licensed plumber who | | | | should have the same look. Mid-century modern will |
| expects to be paid lots of money. But if you leave | | | | need wood and slate or cork floors. A cottage or |
| the fixtures in the same locations you might be able | | | | farmhouse might look good with marble surfaces and |
| to put in all new fixtures yourself with the help of | | | | pedestal sinks in white porcelain. |
| the DIY store. You may also be able to reuse your | | | | To make the work go smoothly have someone act |
| old fixtures if they are neutral in color. This could | | | | as the project manager, making sure all the |
| save you thousands of dollars on a remodel. | | | | necessary supplies are on site and all decisions are |
| 2. Choose basic white for permanent fixtures. It's | | | | already made before work starts. Construction |
| classic and it also costs less than custom colors or | | | | delays cost money. |
| fixtures. | | | | And pay attention to other costs. A nice, relatively |
| 3. Reuse cabinets if possible. Cabinets are expensive. | | | | inexpensive ceramic tile might work just as well in |
| If you can reuse or re-purpose a cabinet it will save | | | | your bath as stone for a fraction of the price. |
| you money. | | | | The cost of sinks can vary widely from thousands of |
| 4. Fresh new, paint can make any room look better | | | | dollars to less than $50. Pick one that won't require |
| and more attractive. It's the cheapest way to get a | | | | you take out a home equity loan to pay for it. This is |
| new look. | | | | true of all the supplies you will buy. |
| 5. Don't over decorate. Our neighbor added a whole | | | | Buy sensibly and pay for things as you go along. |
| new bath to their house they were trying to flip. | | | | You'll be amazed how inexpensive this project can be |
| Then they filled it with ruffles and lace. Prospective | | | | if you plan well, buy sensibly and do some of the |
| buyers were not impressed. The house is still unsold | | | | work yourself so you end up making money on your |
| after years of trying. | | | | bathroom remodel or at least sell a house quick, |
| 6. Pay attention to the floor. Carpet or cheap vinyl | | | | saving you time and interest. |