4 Questions to Guide You: Bathroom vs. Kitchen Upgrade

By Carl Johnson

When it comes to home improvement projects and renovations, kitchens and bathrooms are almost always at the top of the list. Although determining which project to prioritize can be a tough decision, there are various factors to consider that can help you chose which one works best for you. 

In an article by Mosby Building Arts, they suggest breaking down the decision by asking yourself four essential questions:

1. Where or what is my house lacking?
​By considering what your home is missing, you can prioritize your needs vs. wants and decide what is truly making your home feel incomplete. For example, if you love to cook and entertain but have a small, outdated kitchen, prioritizing a kitchen remodel might make the most sense for you. 

2. Where do I spend the most time?
You should spend your money on where you spend your time. Whether you’re living alone, with a partner, or with kids, everyone has a different space that means the most to them. A luxury bathroom in the owner’s suite with a new bathtub and shower could be the perfect getaway for a relaxing night. Or, an updated kitchen could become a central family hang-out space or entertaining space. 

3. What do I need right away?
It’s important to realize that although a bathroom is typically smaller than a kitchen, that doesn’t mean that the renovation is any less elaborate. They both deal with tiling, cabinets, and flooring, as well as the installation of various appliances and fixtures. Therefore, consider your particular circumstances (for example, if you are older/disabled and need a walk-in shower for easier accessibility) to determine which upgrade you need to prioritize. 

4. What is my budget?
When deciding if you should do a kitchen remodel or a bathroom remodel, you must determine how much you are willing to invest into your project. Ultimately, you want to make sure that the upgrade is adding to your home’s resale value, and working with a trusted building company can help ensure that your building goals will align with your budget and add return on your investment. 

Experts typically have found that a kitchen is more effective for home resale, however, research is now showing that the coronavirus has changed the top-selling points in home listings.

In 2019, the most popular home features and amenities in home listings were granite countertops, hardwood floors, and stainless steel appliances. Now, after almost 20 months of living in a global pandemic, the top features listed in homes are garages, walk-in closets, and full bathrooms. 

According to blog author Andra Hopulele, the focus of potential buyers on spaces instead of features makes sense after spending so much more time inside due to the pandemic. 

“At home, the bathroom transcended its primary function, becoming the only truly private room in a perpetually full home. And, in order to venture outside, the car became indispensable. So, naturally, a garage or a parking space became equally vital,” wrote Hopulele. 

Ultimately, both renovations will add value to your home, therefore, the decision on whether to update your kitchen or bathroom comes down to which project will benefit you the most. 

If you need a referral for a design-build company or want an expert opinion from a real estate agent, contact Carl at (919) 880-0904 or [email protected]. 

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