Many people think twice about a bathroom refit if there’s any chance of moving on the horizon. It is anecdotally a risky move, depending on the house market and the condition of your current bathroom. But simply not being in your forever home is no reason not to invest in a bathroom that you get daily joy from. And, ultimately, a stylish bathroom will increase the value of your home. We want to look at the many ways that a bathroom refit adds value to your home (and not all of them are financial), and what improvements it makes sense to consider when balanced with your future plans.
The Bathroom Refit Timeframe: What’s Worth It?
A bathroom is one of the hardest working rooms in the house. It’s where you start your day, where you unwind in the evening, and where you occasionally have to scrub muddy footprints off the floor (thanks, kids and dogs). Deciding to give it a refresh is a big decision, especially when you’re weighing up the cost against how long you plan to enjoy it yourself.
So, we thought it would be helpful to break down the value of a bathroom refit based on your potential moving timeline.
Moving within 1-2 Years: The Smart & Stylish Update
If you’re planning a relatively quick move, your bathroom refit should be about making a great impression. A dated or tired bathroom can be a real sticking point for potential buyers. It suggests the rest of the house might need work, even if that’s not the case, and can put your home into the ‘project house’ pigeon hole. Your goal here is to create a space that feels clean, fresh, and universally appealing without overspending.
Financial Value: A mid-range refit can see a significant return on investment, with some estimates suggesting it can add 3-5% to your home’s value. More than the direct financial gain, an attractive, usable bathroom makes your property far more desirable, leading to a quicker sale and stronger offers.
Lifestyle Value: Even if it’s just for a year or two, you get to enjoy a brand new bathroom. No more leaky taps, cracked tiles, or that shabby suite you inherited. It’s a year of pleasant mornings and relaxing evenings in a space that works for you.
When you’re decorating and planning, then, stick to these principles:
- Neutral Palette: Timeless, neutral colours like soft greys, beiges, or classic whites are risk free. These shades create a sense of space and cleanliness, allowing buyers to easily picture their own style in the room.
- Update Fixtures and Fittings: You’d be surprised what a difference new taps, a modern showerhead, and stylish cabinet handles can make. These are relatively low cost changes that instantly update the look.
- Focus on Lighting: Good lighting is a must. A combination of overhead lights and task lighting around the mirror will make the room feel brighter and more welcoming.
Moving within 5 Years: Balancing Personal Taste with Broad Appeal
With a five year window, you have more freedom to inject your own personality into the design while still keeping an eye on future value. This is your chance to create a bathroom you truly love, knowing it will still be a strong asset when it’s time to sell.
Financial Value: At this stage, you can invest in high quality materials and features that will stand the test of time. A spacious walk-in shower or elegant tiling will still feel contemporary in five years, adding clear value for buyers. It’s about creating a space that feels considered and well maintained.
Lifestyle Value: Five years is a long time to put up with a bathroom you don’t like. This is your opportunity to build a space that truly suits your family’s needs. Need better storage to hide the mountain of bath toys? Want a rainfall shower to wash away the stress of the day? Now’s the time to do it. You’ll get years of daily use and enjoyment, making it a worthwhile investment in your own comfort.
These things will help to prioritise your needs and keep universal appeal:
- Invest in Quality Tiling: Natural stone or quality porcelain tiles are durable and have timeless appeal. You can even add a statement wall with textured or patterned tiles to add character.
- Smart Storage Solutions: A clutter free bathroom is a happy bathroom. Wall-hung vanities, recessed shelving, and mirrored cabinets will provide ample storage while creating a sense of space.
- Luxurious Shower Experience: If you have the space, a large walk-in shower is a huge selling point. Features like a rainfall showerhead or a sleek, frameless glass screen add a touch of spa-like luxury.
Staying for 10+ Years: Create Your Dream Sanctuary
If you’re settled for the long haul, throw the housing market rulebook out the window (well, mostly). This is your chance to design a bathroom that is entirely for you. While it’s always wise not to create something that would require a complete overhaul for the next owner, you can afford to be bolder with your choices.
Financial Value: While a highly personal design might not appeal to every single buyer in a decade, a beautifully crafted, classic bathroom will always add value. You’re investing in durable materials and excellent craftsmanship that will last. Think of it as a long-term investment in your property’s overall quality.
Lifestyle Value: This is where the real return is. For the next ten years or more, you get to use a bathroom designed precisely for your lifestyle. Want a deep, freestanding bath for long soaks? Go for it. Dream of a steam room or a double vanity? Now is your moment. It becomes less about a simple room and more about a personal retreat that enhances your daily life.
These are the decisions to invest your budget in for a luxury finish:
- Bespoke Design: Work with designers to create a layout that perfectly maximises your space and meets your specific needs. Design touches like recessed LED lit shelving give a lovely touch of character.
- Quality Materials: From marble surfaces to bespoke fitted carpentry, choose materials to last for the key elements of your bathroom.
- Embrace Technology: Consider features like underfloor heating, smart mirrors, or integrated sound systems. These convenient luxuries will bring you joy for years to come.
A Bathroom Worth Investing In
Ultimately, if a bathroom refit is on your mind, it’s worth doing well. A poorly executed job will only cause headaches and won’t add the value you’re hoping for. At Stone & Chrome, we design stylish, functional bathrooms that make your life easier and more enjoyable. Whether you’re staying for one year or twenty, we can help you create a space that you’ll love every single day, so come in for a chat.