A Guide to Bathroom Remodel Costs

If you are looking to sell, or if you're a buyer who found the right home but it needs a bathroom refresh, you might find the help you're looking for in this article: 

Looking for a refresh or an overhaul? Either way a bathroom remodel could be just the thing to boost home value and your enjoyment of the space.

Image:Maggie Stuart|HouseLogic

Image:Maggie Stuart| HouseLogic

Image:Maggie Stuart |HouseLogic

Image:Maggie Stuart | HouseLogic

Many homeowners are excited to turn their bathrooms into a spa-like oasis with exciting upgrades. But before starting an ambitious remodel, it helps to understand the costs of such a project. Let’s review various factors in bathroom remodeling and the associated costs.

Factors Influencing Bathroom Remodel Costs

Remodeling costs vary based on components like location, labor, and the size and style of the space. Here are a few factors to consider.

Size and Scope of Your Bathroom Remodel

Size – the square footage involved – is self-explanatory. The scope of your project could include existing plumbing, the difficulty of demolition, the floor plan and layout, the number of upgrades and fixtures, and the doors and windows. Problems that require repair (such as water damage) may add to your costs. A complex project with many changes will cost more than a few surface-level or small-scale changes.

Permits and Regulatory Costs

Permit requirements vary by location. Check with local authorities about county or municipal codes and get an understanding of current permit costs. You may need to factor in $150 to $1,000 for permit costs based on location and project. A contractor can also tell you whether your remodel requires a permit.

Labor and Materials

Labor is one of the primary costs associated with a remodel, and rates can vary based on where you live. Interviewing a few contractors in your area will help you plan your labor budget. For a basic bathroom remodel with about 50 hours of labor, expect costs to start at $4,000. For a major bathroom renovation and about 90 hours of labor, expect to pay up to $11,200. The materials also affect the cost of your remodel. Certain materials – like natural stone or quartz countertops, brass faucets, or heated flooring – can make your bathroom look more luxurious, but they may also drive up the price of the project.

Types of Bathroom Remodels

Identifying the depth of changes you’re planning can help you budget for your remodel.

Levels of Bathroom Remodeling

Let’s review a few levels of bathroom remodeling. Your project may not fit easily into just one level, but this offers a look at the options.

• Cosmetic upgrade: Involves changing fixtures, updating paint, replacing hardware, installing new lighting, and adding accessories.
• Tile and flooring update: Focuses on changing the flooring and/or wall tiles, which can significantly alter the aesthetics of the bathroom.
• Plumbing and electrical updates: Can include updating or relocating plumbing and electrical components to improved functionality and efficiency.
• Luxury remodel: Covers everything from chic changes to updates focused on comfort. It may include installing premium fixtures, using high-end materials, adding luxury amenities like a spa tub, or incorporating advanced smart home features.
• Mid-level remodel: Includes both cosmetic and functional upgrades, often involving updating fixtures, changing the layout, installing new flooring and tiles, and revamping plumbing and electrical systems.
• Complete gut and remodel: Requires demolition of the existing space and rebuilding from scratch.

Bathroom Remodel vs. Bathroom Renovation

While the terms “remodel” and “renovation” are often used interchangeably, each has a distinct meaning. A renovation implies a refresh. It may involve repairing or restoring existing elements of your bathroom with cosmetic upgrades. Remodeling implies a deeper level of changes including structural changes, new installations, or a total redesign.

Key Design Elements of a Bathroom Remodel: Costs

Certain design elements of your bathroom can make a big visual impact. Here’s a breakdown of some of the costs associated with these upgrades.

Vanity and Cabinets

Installation of a bathroom vanity can cost $565 to $839, according to Homewyse. These are rough estimates that would be affected by your location and the materials you select. The average cost of refinishing bathroom cabinets ranges from $6.85 to $15 per square foot.

Flooring

The average cost to replace a basic ceramic floor in a 50-square-foot bathroom is roughly $500. However, most bathroom floor replacements cost $250 to $2,500. If you uncover mold or other issues during the remodel, costs will increase.

Ceramic tiles are easy to maintain but can get chilly. At $8 to $15 per square foot to install, radiant mats are a cost-effective option.

Fixtures: Sinks, Faucets, and Toilets

The cost to buy and install faucets typically falls between $225 and $475. For sinks, expect to pay $300 to $5,500, and for toilets, you may spend $350 to $3,500.

Lighting

Lighting can make or break a space and is a key functional aspect of a bathroom. If you're seeking budget-friendly lighting options, a small change can make a big difference. For example, updating the color temperature of the bulbs can quickly warm up the space. For a bigger impact, you might change the fixtures. Homeowners may spend $1,709 to $2,071 on their bathroom light fixtures and installation, according to Homewyse.

Tub and Shower

Shifting your shower plumbing to a different spot in the bathroom can cost as much as $4,100, and purchasing and installing new shower fixtures range from $1,500 to $3,500. Installing a new tub ranges from $1,500 to $2,900.

Tiles and Backsplashes

Updating the tiles in your bathroom can transform the look of the space. Fancy tiles enhance your bathroom’s appearance and contribute to a spa-like feel. Your tile expenses will depend on your project. Some homeowners prefer to stick with tile in the shower; others may use tile for only the floor. Inexpensive tile options like ceramic and porcelain cost $10 to $44 per square foot, including installation. Glass tiles are pricier, at $27 to $114.

Bathroom Remodel Costs Based on Size and Type

The number of components and the size of your bathroom will inform the cost of your remodel. A full bathroom includes four main components: a bathtub, a shower, a toilet, and a sink.

Powder Rooms or Half Bathrooms

A powder room or half bath usually includes just a toilet and a sink. Fewer components may mean these bathrooms are less expensive to remodel than their larger counterparts. You could pay $1,200 to $4,000 for a half-bath remodel.

Three-Quarter Bathrooms

This bathroom style typically includes a shower or bathtub, a toilet, and a sink. Remodeling costs range from $3,125 to $6,000.

Full Bathrooms

Full baths vary in style and size but in general, a full bathroom remodel costs $5,250 to $16,000, while a partial remodel costs $3,500 to $12,000.

Bathroom Remodel Project Cost by Project Scope

Homeowners can determine the complexity and breadth of their project based on their budget.

Low-Cost Projects

A one-day remodel could give your bathroom a fresh new look without a big price tag. For this type of project, expect to pay as little as $3,000. Consider updates like surface liners on your tub and shower that can visually refresh your bathroom.

Mid-Range Projects

The average cost of a partial bathroom remodel with new flooring and fixtures and some design updates is $5,000 to $15,000.

High-End Projects

Lavish bathrooms with plenty of space and high-end fixtures and finishes come with a steeper price tag. Expect to shell out $27,500 to $100,000 for luxury remodels.

Successfully Navigating Bathroom Remodel Costs 

The level of bathroom remodel you choose will depend on your goals, budget, and the condition of your existing space. It’s a good idea to compare price quotes and material costs, develop a clear project plan, and work on a flexible budget before taking on a bathroom remodel. 

Bathroom Remodel Cost Frequently Asked Questions

Can I DIY a Bathroom Remodel to Save Money?

If you have renovation and construction experience, you may be equipped to execute a bathroom remodel. But you need to be well versed in the trades and understand local regulations and permits. Performing tasks like painting and decorating could help lower costs, but it's best to leave complex remodel tasks to the pros if you aren’t experienced.

When Should I Hire a Professional?

For complex projects with structural changes or plumbing or electrical work, consider hiring a professional, who is more likely to do the work safely and up to code. Professionals bring specialized knowledge and skills and are used to tight schedules. They can often complete the project more quickly than DIYers, especially if surprises or issues arise.

How Do I Budget for Unexpected Bathroom Remodeling Expenses

When you budget for your bathroom remodel, identify potential problems such as plumbing, electrical, or structural concerns. Look up common challenges associated with bathroom remodels and assess your space for those issues. Get opinions and quotes from multiple contractors and choose the best option. Lastly, set aside a contingency fund for unexpected expenses.

What’s the ROI of a Bathroom Remodel?

The National Association of REALTORS® 2025 "Remodeling Impact Report" estimated that homeowners would recover about 50% of the value of their bathroom remodeling investment. In the past two years, real estate agents have seen a 35% increase in the demand for bathroom renovation. In addition, 24% of real estate agents recommend sellers remodel the bathroom before selling. Consider high-ROI projects like accessibility modifications, new flooring, or a tub/shower upgrade.

How Long Does a Bathroom Remodel Typically Take?

Cosmetic upgrades may take a few days to a week. Extensive remodeling work can take several weeks or a few months. The availability of materials, the speed of contractors, and adherence to the project timeline all contribute to the overall time frame. Talk to your contractor about timelines and factor in a buffer period of a week or two when figuring when you’ll have use of your bathroom again.

Article courtesy of HouseLogic - May 2025

Julia Huntsman, REALTOR, Broker | http://www.abodes.realestate | 562-896-2609 | California Lic. #01188996

Saving Money with Sustainable Home Upgrades

1970s photo of an 1865 house

Property owners of both residential and commercial properties know that it's becoming more critical to understand "green" features during a time of rising utility costs and changing weather conditions. When the house at the right was built, there was no electricity, no indoor plumbing for bathrooms, no telephones, maybe a water pump in the kitchen. By the time my great aunt and uncle bought it in the 1950s, there was indoor plumbing and electricity -- people had to keep up with the times and what was current then. Now, 70-plus years later, there are new features, but still, not all homes that were new in the 1950s have the most current features of a new "smart" home completed today.

Buyers want to know what cost-saving features a new home may have -- in a high-cost environment they also want economic efficiency. Many agents say their clients are evaluating environmental risk during the purpose process.

Realtors are faced with evaluating such features when assisting a seller determine a list and sale price for a property.

The National Association of Realtors 2023 REALTORS® and Sustainability Report is based on a REALTOR member survey about sustainability issues facing the industry, click on the link for a summary of that Report.

Included in the Report are what clients found important: "home features that clients listed to their agent or broker as very important included windows, doors, and siding, proximity to frequently visited places, and comfortable living space."  An important thing to know for buyers and sellers is whether or not the MLS listing a property features categories for "green" features -- in my case in Southern California and beyond, the local MLS (CRMLS) does have such categories, and are listed as: energy generation, energy efficiency, sustainability, water conservation, and walk score, power production, and green energy verification. Such features may lessen the environmental footprint and reduce monthly energy costs.

Green Home Features List for Clients in NAR 2023 Report

"The NAR survey shows that 17% of REALTORS® say a high-performance home—one with improvements made to increase health, operational efficiency and durability—saw an increase from 1% to 10% of the dollar value offered compared to a similar, non-performance home. That could equate to thousands of dollars." "What’s more, energy-efficient home projects could save homeowners up to $2,500 a year on their energy bills, according to a recent survey of 1,000 consumers conducted by Thumbtack, a home services website. For example, installing energy-efficient lighting or smart thermostats could trim yearly energy bills by up to $200 and $100, respectively, the report shows." Article by Melissa Dittman Tracy, NAR REALTOR Magazine, It's Becoming More Critical to Understand Green Features, May 3, 2023. Go to Title 24 link for more information about  energy efficiency standards in California. For more information on the features in your home, please contact me via text, email or phone!

Julia Huntsman, REALTOR, Broker | http://www.juliahuntsman.com | 562-896-2609 | California Lic. #01188996

What To Do With All Your Stuff, Whether You're Selling or Not

The Art and Necessity of Decluttering

 

Barcelona Chair - 1929

Did you ever hear of Mies Van Der Rohe?  Perhaps not, unless you have an interest in architecture.  (He also designed the “Barcelona Chair” around 1929 .) Mies Van Der Rohe died in 1969, a German architect who did many works in the U.S., and often aspired to the ideal of “less is more”, a saying about the ideal of creating something so beautiful it cannot be further reduced.

 

Opinions may differ, but there are many people who would say that the type of stuff in the next photo could be reduced – quite a bit.  “Decluttering” is the word most familiar to people.  

Whether you’re moving, or just wanting to move your stuff, decluttering can bring improvements to your daily life, and most probably to your outlook in general.

All you have to do is watch the TV series about hoarders to view the extreme situations.  Most people are not this extreme, but neither were the people in the TV show at one time.  But whether you’re at the low end or the high middle of the distribution curve on junk,  the process can take a lot of work, because that stuff may have meaning to you, or you think it does.

Garage tools piled on top of each other

If you do put your home on the market, having too much stuff in your house or condo can detract from the buyer’s ability to see and focus on the property, and in the end could hurt you financially.

There are people, such as Marie Kondo, who specialize in decluttering, but really most people can tackle this themselves if they keep in mind:

1. There’s a financial advantage in keeping only what you use.

      2.   That breaking down the clean out process into smaller tasks can lighten the load.

3.            3. That selling, donating or sharing are three primary ways to lighten your inventory—sell to consignment shops, Facebook groups, estate sale specialists, or donate to a halfway house, charity groups, neighborhood yard sales.  1-800-GOTJUNK is a resource for taking away stuff that cannot be donated, or, pick a self-storage site for later attention.

Decluttering may also mean a transformational growth process, which can lead to establishing more effective daily routines, simplifying meals and grocery shopping, and quieting the noise in your life.  More resources on simplification are found here.

If cleaning out is a task you would like to leave to a professional, the national hourly rate for a member of the National Association of Professional Organizers , for example, would be between $50 to $100 an hour. It might be worth a consultation to help you get started and actually speed up the process.

The key is, don’t try to downsize in a month. You may give up something you wish you’d kept (but thinking you need everything doesn’t work either).  It’s essential to start developing the habit of reviewing your possessions and think of when the last time was you wore an item of clothing, or used a tool or appliance, or are you keeping items you inherited that may only be taking up space.

Your home should be seen as beautiful in the eye of the beholder. Get started on your plan, your goal is reachable!

Mies Van Der Rohe

Julia Huntsman, REALTOR, Broker | http://www.juliahuntsman.com | 562-896-2609 | California Lic. #01188996

Are New California Homeowners Prepared for Home Maintenance Costs?

According to a recent survey discussed in the Scotsman Guide, 70% of a poll of 1600 recent homebuyers  had one major regret in their buying experience: reasons tied to "cost-based remorse".  Buyer, or seller, remorse is not unusual, nor has it ever been no matter in what market a transaction occurs--much of it, I believe, is due to unexpected aspects of the experience.  It's impossible to predict all events, but the more preparation, planning, and advance knowledge a party has, the faster the remorse will subside. 

1920s Spanish bungalow

In today's market of fast moving market of competitive bids, advance preparation about costs and the subsequent homeowning experience is essential--because often in a fast-paced bidding war, time to think things out slowly doesn't exist.

Costs of owning your new home should be considered before you begin your househunt:

1. Age of home

2.  Location (nearer the ocean means salt air can affect paint and old foundation concrete)

3. Pest control (inspections every 2 years, please--termite and dry rot issues)

4.  Plumbing (replace sink and toilet valves before they break down or become impossible to turn; water heater may need replacement after a few years; waste lines; sewer lines)

5. HVAC system (vents need cleaning, furnace filters need replacing)

6. Gutter cleaning (clogged gutters cause water issues)

7. Fences (wooden ones degrade)

8. Landscaping maintenance 

9. Roof (Composition roofs with one layer may last 20-25 years--less if more layers)

10.  Home insurance (may go up due to rise in claims, climate issues, location)

How to budget for these costs on a general basis?  

Try the 1% rule: If the selling price was $700,000, reserve $7000 annually; or using the square footage rule, a 1200 square foot house will mean saving $1200 per year.  This may also depend on whether you own a single family home or a condominium (but monthly dues are also a homeowner cost). These are only initial estimates, but will also help a homeowner prepare.  More guidelines are at this site by State Farm (I'm not endorsing this company, only providing a link as a guideline). The buyer should search several sources, including their own insurance company, to gain estimates.  And see this real-life home-buying example of a couple in Gardena California and their cost/budget experience

Julia Huntsman, REALTOR, Broker | http://www.juliahuntsman.com | 562-896-2609 | California Lic. #01188996

Looking for Home Inspiration? Try These Instagram Authors

7 Instagram Accounts for the Ultimate Home Design Inspiration

@inspire_me_home_decor

With 5.3 million followers, it won’t be long before you understand why so many people get hooked on Inspire Me! Home Décor’s Instagram. You’ll find everything from grand and opulent to whimsy and practical, but you’ll certainly never be bored.

@marieflaniganinteriors
Can’t get enough rustic charm? Then be prepared for serious design envy when you follow Marie Flanigan. The Houston designer’s posts are filled with rich woodwork and earthy tones that yield warm spaces.

@myhouseishome
My House Is Home delivers an eclectic mix of contemporary-meets-cozy living spaces all over the world. Characterized by dramatic flair and plush décor, you’re more than likely to come across your dream home here.

@pierre.yovanovitch

Defined by soft lines and contours, French designer Pierre Yovanovitch creates spaces that look as if they’re straight out of an M.C. Escher painting. Materials like wood, stone, marble and metal all come together and result in homes that are minimalist and inviting.

@the_real_houses_of_ig
For a daily dose of downright beautiful living spaces, The Real Houses is a treasure trove showcasing homes, designers and products from around the world. You’ll find endless inspiration along with all the latest trends and styles.

@martynbullard
Celebrity designer and television personality Martyn Lawrence Bullard is known for his eye-popping colors and patterns. His knack for bold design has resulted in A-list clientele, from Elton John to Ellen Pompeo, and you’ll often catch a glimpse into their homes on his Instagram.

@alyssakapitointeriors
NYC-based designer Alyssa Kapito is a master of creating elegant spaces that are both timeless and tranquil. Her aesthetic has a distinctly Upper East Side feel with soft, neutral tones and an exquisite sense of light and space.

Thanks to Paige Brown of RisMedia for this post.

Julia Huntsman, REALTOR, Broker | www.juliahuntsman.com | 562-896-2609 | California Lic. #01188996

Key 2016 Remodeling Trends for the Los Angeles/Orange Counties Area--What is Cost vs. Value?

  The annual report is out on home remodel cost vs. value, conducted by Remodeling Magazine.  This is a valuable survey every year because the statistics vary according to the market and according to the region.  Return on projects were somewhat higher in the boom years, over 60%, and then fell under the 60% mark when the market declined.

Projects also vary in perceived value-- topping the list for 2016 was entry door replacement, especially into fiberglass doors.  Second story additions, master suites and kitchen remodels all increased this year in value, according to the real estate professionals in this survey.

Fiberglass insulation projects have been added for the first time to this report, a project not measured on an annual basis, but on a return extending over many years.  This project is estimated to give more than 100% return.

"In contrast, the five projects with the worst returns all scored cost-value ratios between 56.2% and 57.7%. From the bottom up, they are: midrange bathroom addition, upscale bathroom addition, upscale master suite, upscale bathroom remodel, and composite deck addition,"  according to the Remodeling 2016 Cost vs. Value Report (www.costvsvalue.com)  So not all upscale projects give the best return, and for some reason, neither do composite deck additions in this report.  Having seen enough termite damaged wood decks, composite decks would seen to be a great improvement in Southern California, but in this report, wood decks fare more favorably.

Replacements projects netted a few percentage points higher in return, 61%, compared to remodel projects which came out around 57%.

See the complete report online at Remodeling.
A free downloadable pdf report is also available online.

Cost vs. Value - What Improvement Projects Pay Off?

Sometimes the lower cost improvement may pay off best, especially if the seller is considering fixing up to sell.  See this article for more information on how less is more.

Are Your Ceiling Fans Turning in the Right Direction?

Are you wondering what difference it makes to have your ceiling fans be in one direction or the other?  Make sure your ceiling fans are spinning in the right direction to move air around the room.

Most fans are reversible: One direction pushes air down, creating a nice summer breeze; the other direction sucks air up, helping you distribute heat in winter. There’s normally a switch on the motor to change the fan’s direction.

Is your fan turning in the right direction for summer?

• Stand beneath the running fan, and if you feel a cooling breeze, it’s turning correctly.

• If not, change directions, usually by flicking a switch on the fan’s base.

Typically, it’s counterclockwise or left for summer and clockwise for winter, but the best method is to follow the steps above.

This applies to fans in general, depending on which way you want the air to flow., i.e., into a garage or out of a garage.

More information is at EnergyStar.gov: 

In the summer, use the ceiling fan in the counterclockwise direction. While standing directly under the ceiling fan you should feel a cool breeze. The airflow produced creates a wind-chill effect, making you "feel" cooler. In the winter, reverse the motor and operate the ceiling fan at low speed in the clockwise direction. This produces a gentle updraft, which forces warm air near the ceiling down into the occupied space. Remember to adjust your thermostat when using your ceiling fan — additional energy and dollar savings could be realized with this simple step!

Home Projects in Los Angeles area: Cost vs. Value



10 Remodel Projects



It's that time of year when homeowners might be thinking of making some improvements.  Or, if you're buying a home this year, you'd like to know what your best improvement might be to fix up a new home.

Remodeling Magazine 2013 report breaks down project costs and returns by geographic area.

For the Los Angeles area, a steel entry door replacement offers one of the highest returns on cost--not everyone wants one for their front door, however.  Perhaps that won't fit in with the local guidelines if you live in a historic district, but you definitely would want one if you have an attached garage with a direct entry into the house for local fire code reasons.

Outdoor decks and garage door replacements are the next high value return projects. Garage doors especially when the garage is attached to the house affect the appearance of your home greatly.

Vinyl or wood window replacements are high on the list of return as well, especially when offering dual-paned inserts.

Interestingly, bathroom remodels and bathroom additions are between 50% and 65% return on value, yet when shopping for a home, updated bathrooms and kitchens are quite significant for most buyers.

All 2013 projects have increased in return on value since 2011, click here for the entire list of projects.

Home Improvement Tips--Cost vs. Value Report

There's a lot of information available about getting a new look for your home, or getting it prepared for marketing, or just getting it fixed.  But how do you know the best areas to invest your time and effort?  Every year Remodeling Magazine publishes its online report -- it's a great resource to consult with to find out what your best choices might be, both from a popularity standpoint and a financial one.  If you're thinking about or considering selling, why spend tons of money or time on a big improvement that may be your best personal choice (if you're going to live there indefinitely), but not one that the majority of buyers may deem significant, or vice-versa? Find out what the trends may be in your region. The improvement picks are not necessarily the same each year.  The annual "Cost vs Value" report for 2012 is not out yet, but should be soon, but here is the link to the Los Angeles area version from 2011.

Also, If you go to www.juliahuntsman.com and scroll down to "Houselogic", you can click and go to their main website for more home improvement tips and maintenance.  This is a really useful resource as you can save items to make your own collection.  Houselogic is another great resource from the National Association of Realtors.

Frankly, when it comes to home colors, I go to a store like Dunn-Edwards and get their paint color chips--they also have very nice brochures putting together a coordinated palette of colors for interiors and exteriors--as well as colors that could be used for various architectural styles and periods. Historical colors can be important, especially if you're located in a historic district where there may be local rules or guidance on period color selection.

If you use Facebook, "like" my page at www.facebook.com/longbeachhomesandcondos while you're there and you can follow my blog posts where I put out information for both buyers and sellers, or just look at my blog at www.longbeachrealestate.blogspot.com from time to time!

The 5 Best Home Improvements Projects in Southern California

It's should be no surprise that costs have gone up, but important to know is that the 9-year trend shows a downward cost-value ratio. But still, the Pacific Region in the 2011-2012 Cost vs. Value Report states, "In Pacific Region markets, the high cost of remodeling is more than offset by high values at resale, giving it the highest average cost-value ratio (71.3%) in the country."  And, overall, the report puts the top 10 projects nationwide as giving a value between 69-78%. 

Remodeling Magazine: Regional Comparison

Sellers, at this point, please take note that 1) because you put in a $40,000 bathroom remodel doesn't mean the value of your house went up $40,000, and 2) taking care of deferred maintenance projects, unless a large remodel/upgrade is the replacement, does not add a higher price tag to your home.

And, keep in mind that a low-cost re-do of $3000-$4000 can often be enough to prepare a property for sale, i.e., low-cost kitchen fix-up, vs. spending $19,000+.

Nationally, siding, window and door replacement projects were in the top 10, because certain costs have actually decreased, and also because they are under $19,000. Garage door replacement is now 6th in popularity (it was 13th in the past), and is 15% cheaper than a few years ago. Vinyl siding and vinyl window replacements are also in the top 10.  With remodel projects, adding an attic master bedroom/bath continues to rank in the top 10.  With single-story houses that were originally a two-bedroom/one bath, going up to add more living space has gotten high marks.

For the Pacific Region including California, the following are the top 5 value projects:

1. Minor kitchen remodel stands out at retaining 91% of its value ( replace: cabinet fronts with new raised-panel wood doors and drawers, including new hardware;  wall oven and cooktop with new energy-efficient models; laminate countertops; install midpriced sink and faucet. Repaint trim, add wall covering, and remove and replace resilient flooring).
2. Garage Door replacement -88%
3. Entry Door replacement - 85%
4. Deck addition - 81%
5. Window replacement - 81%

Places to look  for contractor sources may be at local tile and kitchen shops, local area classified ads, online directories, and of course, referrals from friends.

What Are the Best and Worst in Home Remodel Values for Long Beach/Los Angeles?

The latest Cost vs Value report is out!

Buyers often want a 3 bedroom house or condo not because they need all the bedrooms for sleeping quarters, but because they need office space. Interestingly, according to this Report, the home office remodel could be the lowest in terms of recouping cost.  One of the things to consider is a future buyer's need for an actual bedroom and the closet that was previously turned into office shelf or storage space. 

The next two items with under 50% return on original cost are a sunroom addition and backup power generator--with the fourth on the list being a bathroom addition at 53.5% return.

The top best return remodels are a steel entry door replacement (100% return), garage door replacement, deck addition and minor kitchen remodel, alnd with siding replacement and vinyl window replacement--all over 70% cost recoup.
The only item in the 2011 report to increase in return on original cost was the garage door replacement, included for the first time in the report--new garage doors add curb appeal on a prospective buyer's first impression of a home, and are also one of the lowest actual cost projects to install for a homeowner. (Just think of the times you pulled up in front of a great house with a weathered garage door.)  All other items in the report have decreased.

Master suite addition and family room additions are between 60-70% return.

Overall, exterior replacement projects under $25,000, rather than more expensive remodel projects, are leading the way in return on cost, since they are less expensive.  The outdoor wood deck tied with the minor kitchen remodel.

Owners might want to consider utilizing existing space for conversions--they may be less expensive than a new addition, and they don't change the original floorplan or "footprint" of the home. 

If an addition does not have a good flow for the overall floor plan of the home, especially considering the price of a home, a buyer may go elsewhere to find a more recently built home that was designed for such amenities.

See the 2010-2011 Cost vs. Value annual report by Remodel Magazine for the Los Angeles area,

To find properties in all Long Beach (and nearby cities) areas and types, please go to this property search.

Saving Water is Saving Money, Also, Its Not Wasting Water

Since we're watching TV ads about honest talk about what goes on in the bathroom, this seemed like another good conversation to have. 

A typical household uses 185 to 300 gallons of water a day and the majority of it goes down the drain from the toilet and the shower. One person alone may use about 80-100 gallons per day.  The toilet can consume about 26% of total daily water usage. Updating your commodes will serve as a conservation effort while also lowering your water bill.

If your toilet flushes 3.5 gallons per flush, one person may use as much as 19.5 gallons per day. But if your toilet flushes 1.6 gallons, that usage may be reduced to 10 gallons per day. Today's toilets use less water, prevent staining and resist clogging better than the older toilets--which saves on plumber's visits--and they are easy to install (although I recommend using a plumber to do it).  Good replacements generally cost from $150 to $300.

Until recently, I was one of many households with pre-1992 appliances, but I have just completed a replacement of a 5 gallon-per-flush toilet with a 1.6 gpf, and a new reduced-flow water faucet, so I know I'll be saving water!  Many older homes have older fixtures which, if replaced, will save a lot of water and reduce water bills. The early 1.6 gpf models were problematic in the 1990s, but those made today are much improved, and are easily found at the large home supply stores, you know the ones.
Toilets made in the 1950's used, on average, seven gallons per flush. Compare that with one that only uses 1.6 gallons per flush and it's a big saving. Multiply by the times a toilet is flushed in a year and the number of toilets in your home and it will save a lot of water.  The chart shows how usage changes depending on type of commode.  (1 gallon = 3.785 liters.)

Home Improvement Trends In Energy Efficiency and Exteriors

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  7 Hot Home Improvement Trends that Make Your Home Work for You

  Home improvement trends embrace energy efficiency, low maintenance exteriors, and double-duty space. Read

Visit houselogic.com for more articles like this.

Copyright 2011 NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®

10 Flooring Options For "Fantastic Floors"

I really liked this article in REALTOR(R) Magazine Online today about the pros and cons of 10 different types of flooring--I wish it was a video to embed, but if you click on the link below you will go to an interactive display.

Often people make a choice because they love the way certain flooring appears, but don't consider the setting, or their own physical needs.

Have you ever considered leather tiles on your floor, or which part of your home where cork would make a good covering? These days everyone is thinking about eliminating allergens, and so they often think of removing their carpeting. But if you like carpeting, have you thought about the best kind?

Depending on the climate zone you live in, and your preferred maintenance plan, and longevity, choosing the right flooring may save you money--or not. Take a look at your options for linoleum, seagrass, bamboo, ceramic tile, concrete and stone.

Fantastic Floors - REALTOR(R) Magazine

Going Green: Recycle Your California Appliances

Is your refrigerator getting more expensive to run? I think mine is because it's now 10 years old, and my electricity usage is going up (but cleaning the coils can also lower electrical usage too). If you're going to replace them, don't dump your old appliances or have them hauled away before you check this program first. The California Energy Commission is behind the Cash4Appliances program. Click on the link for more information.

Don't dump your old appliances, instead, recycle them, and/or get a rebate through the listed partners if you bought from them. This includes Best Buy, Home Depot, Fry's, Howard's, Lowe's, and other major chains.  I unfortunately do not see Sears on this list (where I bought my refrigerator). This program applies to residential occupants, and landlords and tenants of residential properties.

This program started in April, 2010, and will continue until funds are gone. Per their website today, there is over $11,000,000 available in funds. This program includes your refrigerator, clothes washer, room air conditioner, freezers, dishwashers, certain water heaters, and certain furnaces. As of July 28, eligible energy efficient appliances and rebate amounts available are: refrigerators $200, clothes washers $100, and room air conditioners up to $50. California Cash for Appliance PLUS rebates include: dishwashers $100, freezers $50, water heaters $300-$750, and HVAC systems: $500-$1000.

Another source for recycling refrigerators is through Southern California Edison, which will remove your working refrigerator and pay $35.