How can I save money in a bathroom renovation?

Author: Rolando O'Conner  |  Last update: Monday, August 18, 2025

Here are my top tips for saving money on your bathroom remodel:
  1. Be your own general contractor. ...
  2. Work with your existing layout and plumbing. ...
  3. Know when to call in the experts. ...
  4. Price shop everything! ...
  5. Paint your existing vanity. ...
  6. Check Craigslist Daily. ...
  7. Be flexible. ...
  8. Buy tile with straight edges.

How can I reduce the cost of remodeling a bathroom?

To reduce the cost of your bathroom remodel, consider opting for affordable materials, keeping the existing layout, refinishing fixtures instead of replacing them, and handling some of the work yourself. Additionally, shopping around for deals on materials and fixtures can help save money.

How to cheaply renovate a bathroom?

My 5 golden rules to get a great bathroom renovation on a tight budget
  1. Don't Change the Plumbing. ...
  2. Resurface and Repaint – Do Not Re-Tile. ...
  3. Use Lots of White. ...
  4. Beware of DIY Projects – They Cost More Than you Think. ...
  5. Be Careful of Ultra-Low Quotes and Cheap Materials.

What is a realistic budget for a bathroom remodel?

The average cost of a bathroom remodel in California ranges from $10,000 to $30,000 for a mid-range remodel, with high-end remodels going up to $70,000 or more. Costs can vary depending on the size of the bathroom, the quality of materials used, and your location within California.

How do people afford a bathroom remodel?

Take out a home equity loan

A home equity loan differs from a HELOC in that it offers fixed interest rates and loan terms. A home equity loan can be beneficial for paying for your bathroom renovation, especially if you're able to pay off the total costs of your project within three to five years.

6 Tips to Save Money on your Bathroom Renovation

Can I renovate my bathroom for $10000?

You can complete your bathroom renovation for under $10,000, and on time, especially if it's a small bathroom renovation. Set a firm budget, plan it well from the start and get several quotes. Speak to the experts first: plumbers, tilers and electricians.

What is the most expensive part of a bathroom remodel?

Beyond your bathroom's size, the areas you choose to renovate and your selected materials can go a long way in determining the final price tag. The most expensive material costs are the wet area, bathroom vanity, countertops, and tiling.

Can I renovate my bathroom for $5000?

Home renovations can be expensive, but you can still give your bathroom a makeover on a relatively low budget. With a sum as small as $5,000, you can overhaul the space, but you'll need to make smart choices and be prepared to roll up your sleeves.

What adds the most value to a bathroom?

5 High Value Bathroom Renovation Ideas That Pay Off
  1. Replace the Bathtub. If you want to make your bathroom more luxurious, install a spa-like tub. ...
  2. Adding Floor and Wall Tiles. Changing the tiles in your bathroom is a great way to improve the style. ...
  3. Prioritize Ventilation. ...
  4. Lighting with a Purpose. ...
  5. Install Double Vanities.

How much does it cost to remodel a bathroom at Home Depot?

An average bathroom remodel will cost between $6,000 and $16,000. However, a remodeled bathroom can add nearly 60 percent more value to your home when it's time to sell, so be sure to decide on your budget as well as your timeline when you're setting remodel goals.

How to save money on a bathroom renovation?

Six Ways to Save Money on a Bathroom Remodel
  1. Do it yourself. ...
  2. Plan and budget for new items. ...
  3. Keep the bathroom layout the same. ...
  4. Refinish, rather than replace, bathroom fixtures. ...
  5. Install a prefabricated shower or bathtub. ...
  6. Make easy cosmetic changes to the bathroom.

What do you remodel first in a bathroom?

By focusing first on the wet area, then moving on to the flooring, toilet, and vanity, and finishing with accessories and ventilation, you can achieve a seamless renovation.

Can you redo a bathroom for 5k?

With a little planning and a keen eye for savings, you can absolutely renovate your bathroom for under £5000. The key is to prioritize your must-haves and be strategic about where you allocate your funds.

How much should a small bathroom remodel cost?

Alex Capozzolo, founder of SD House Guys, says that in San Diego, California, the average cost to remodel a full bathroom is approximately $15,000 to $20,000, and the average cost to remodel a half bathroom ranges from $7,000 to $10,000.

How to cheaply redo a bathroom?

7 Tips for an Inexpensive Bathroom Remodel
  1. Shop Around for Affordable Alternatives. ...
  2. Use Easy-to-Install Bathroom Flooring. ...
  3. Find Alternative Bathroom Wall Ideas. ...
  4. Choose Your Wall Art Wisely. ...
  5. Redo Your Bathroom Vanity. ...
  6. Reorganize Your Bathroom. ...
  7. Focus on the Details.

How can I reduce the cost of a new bathroom?

9 Ways To Save On The Cost Of A Bathroom
  1. Carry out some of the work yourself. ...
  2. Up-cycle where you can. ...
  3. You don't need to tile the whole bathroom. ...
  4. Shop around for bargains. ...
  5. Don't change the layout. ...
  6. Keep the style simple. ...
  7. Think about what you need in the bathroom. ...
  8. Consider alternative flooring options.

What color bathroom sells the most?

Zillow and Behr Paint conducted a study in 2021 and found that having a light-blue palette can significantly increase a home's value. Make the most of this popular bathroom color, paint your bathroom walls a soft shade reminiscent of the sky, and extend the hue to the ceiling.

Do tile showers increase home value?

Most high-end bathrooms have showers with multiple showerheads, floor-to-ceiling tile and a freestanding soaking tub. These luxuries make bathing a spa-like experience—and they can increase the value of your home.

How can I make my bathroom look expensive?

14 Ways to Make Your Bathroom Look More Expensive
  1. Enhance with Mirrors. ...
  2. Elevate Your Towels. ...
  3. Achieve Luxurious Lighting. ...
  4. Set up a Seating Spot. ...
  5. Incorporate Plants. ...
  6. Choose a Stylish Bathtub. ...
  7. Maintain a Clean Space. ...
  8. Hang Art Pieces.

How do people afford bathroom remodel?

Home Equity Loans or Lines of Credit

If you've got tappable equity available in your home, a home equity loan or line of credit (HELOC) could be a possible method of bathroom remodel financing for you to consider.

How much does a plumber charge for a bathroom renovation?

The average cost to rough-in plumbing for a bathroom is $7,000 for a new bath or major renovations. The cost of installing new pipes runs between $0.50 and $8 per linear foot for materials only. You'll also pay $45 to $200 per hour to hire a plumber. Plumbing updates during a bathroom remodel average $800.

Can you renovate a bathroom for $10,000?

On average, a total bathroom remodel costs about $10,000. With this budget, you can likely get a new shower, countertops, toilet, vanity, flooring, paint and more. However, it's important to note that these costs only apply to materials. You also have to factor in labor costs, which can add quite a bit to your budget.

In what order do you renovate a bathroom?

In What Order Should You Renovate a Bathroom?
  1. Choose a style and design. ...
  2. Consider your budget and DIY skills. ...
  3. Make a plan. ...
  4. Order your new products. ...
  5. Start dismantling your old bathroom. ...
  6. Start on your walls and floors. ...
  7. Install the new fixtures and fittings. ...
  8. Finish the walls and floors.

What is the hardest part of remodeling a bathroom?

"Plumbing issues or pipe redirection; layout changes that include rewiring; heater placement; floor leveling; and shower doors are usually the most challenging parts—and the most common issues—when it comes to renovating a bathroom", says Alonso Hernández, an independent contractor from Long Island, New York.

How much does it cost to replace a shower?

Shower remodels cost homeowners an average of $8,000 but typically ranges from $1,000–$15,000. See which factors will impact your total cost.

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