There are 2 areas in a house where people spend the most time. Can you guess which ones they are?
Here’s a hint…

Yes, it is the Kitchen and Bathroom.

But our question here today is, “Are kitchens and bathrooms worth the costs to remodel?”

Well, while reading an article on the HGTV site titled, “Which Home Improvements Pay Off?” I wasn’t surprise to read that kitchen and bathroom remodels often recoup more than 100% of their cost during resale. In specific markets, “The markets in Washington, D.C., Minneapolis, Chicago, Atlanta, San Francisco and San Diego also offered triple-digit returns on a bathroom remodel.”

In new construction you have a lot of design choices concerning the kitchen and bath. For example, square footage, layout, to have an island or not to have an island, those types of choices. In an older home what is presented to you is basically what you have to work with. That is unless you decide to start tearing out walls. Which can be tricky business and costly. But here are a few tips for you to maximize your ROI (Return on Investment) in an older home.

First, in older homes and we are talking built in the 30s, 40s through to the 70s, single family homes were built to maximized space. And having more than one bathroom was considered a luxury. So what you will sometimes find is a well layout floor plan, 3 bedrooms, high ceilings, classic fireplace with a charmingly detailed mantle, all within your budget then comes the kicker…one bathroom. Many buyers experience this one bathroom plan and shutter. But others see it as opportunity. What are the words again? Return-on-Investment! Even by adding a small bathroom for let’s say $7,000-$15,000 could triple in ROI at resale. So before you walk away from that one bathroom house, think about it.

Secondly, “The Kitchen,” even if you don’t cook the kitchen is a big deal for your resale value. The biggest cost in a total kitchen makeovers can be appliances. This depending on quality and brand. The trend is toward the stainless steal commercial grade appliances look. Following appliances are the granite countertops, flooring, cabinetry, and sink options. In older homes (fixer uppers) obviously these items will be dated and need to be replaced. And having a good designer on your side will help you see the options, potential and what else? Maximize your Return-on-Investment!

The pictures in this article are all remodels done by Cavali Design and Build. These are older homes built in the 30s and 40s in the Atlanta, GA area. By which all designs are drafted by Ashely Cavali. If you are considering purchasing a fixer-upper to either establish residence or as an investment property in the Atlanta area view our About page for a list of services we provide and contact information. We would love to help you design, build and increase your Return on Investment.