Ten Things that will add value to your home

Here is the second article of a ten-part series of things that will add value to your home

MODERN BATHROOMS

Today it’s all about the ‘Master Bath’ as buyers are looking for “The Ultimate Master Bath” that will give them more than a little room to roam. The big plus is the “Queen Bee Bathroom” as I call it; this is the dream bathroom that has a garden tub that is a spa or a whirlpool tub, separate shower, and separate room for the commode.

It always brings a smile to my face when I ask clients who have this feature how they like it and how much they use it. It is amazing to know just how many do not use the jetted tub very often for one reason or another…it is mainly there to use just in case they get in the mood. Regardless, it is a big feature to most buyers. I can guarantee I would use a jettedl tub at least once a week with all the aromatherapy candles and oils available to soothe this tired bod at the end of a hectic week!

Another feature that buyers want is separate showers with steam and/or multiple jets. A must is the double sink, and a separate room for the toilet. I remember an article that interviewed the actor Michael Cain and when asked what contributed to the success of marriages, he said, “having a double sink in the bathroom.” I have to totally agree with him because we women need our space!

As with all bathrooms, it is very important when remodeling to accommodate all these neat features so they run properly by making sure that the plumbing and water heater can handle the job. What good is it to have a $25k bathroom with new fixtures but no one thought it important to upgrade the pipes? 

Piping has to be large enough to carry an adequate volume of water. Equally as important, the water heater has to be big enough to accommodate it. In reality, you need a minimum of a 75-gallon hot water heater but today most of my clients have opted for 100-150. With all the energy efficient water heaters available today, your costs are kept to a minimum as opposed to having an old unit that can’t handle the job efficiently. Nothing could be worse than taking a shower and suddenly being doused with ice water from the arctic! That would be a wake-up call after-the-fact!

When remodeling, you can find  many money-saving rebates on qualifying energy-efficient appliances or upgrades for your home.
Rebate website
Energy Star

Shirlee McGarry® is a freelance writer and published author in Utah
Pictures -  Fotosearch stock photos