Deciding between kitchen remodeling vs bathroom remodeling is a common dilemma homeowners face during a renovation. Both can increase functionality, improve aesthetics, and boost resale value. But when comparing kitchen remodel vs bathroom remodel ROI, which room offers the biggest bang for your buck?
Ultimately, it depends on factors such as the current state of your home, your budget, and your long-term plans. Kitchens typically hold more weight with buyers, but bathrooms can surprisingly offer a higher return for relatively low cost. By understanding the pros and cons of each option, you can decide which room makes the most sense to remodel.
Why Kitchens and Bathrooms Matter Most
Believe it or not, when potential buyers are touring a home, they spend more time in two rooms above all else: kitchens and bathrooms. Every homeowner uses these rooms daily, so outdated features can turn off buyers.
Kitchen remodels and bathroom renovations are so popular because they provide two of the highest returns on investment for home improvements. Studies have shown that you can expect to recover around % of your costs with minor to mid-range upgrades. (source)
That being said, not all home remodels are created equal.
Kitchen Remodel
Kitchen improvements offer powerful returns for two reasons. First, kitchens have a strong psychological impact on buyers. They’re where families cook meals, spend time together, and naturally congregate when entertaining guests. If someone walks into your home and immediately loves your kitchen, they’ll be more inclined to look past its flaws.
Second, well-executed kitchen remodels enhance functionality. They improve storage, workflow, lighting, and the overall aesthetic. You don’t have to remodel everything to see a major impact. Here are some popular kitchen upgrade ideas:
- Fresh-looking cabinets (either new or refacing)
- Modern countertops
- Eye-catching backsplash
- Energy-efficient appliances
- Better lighting
- New flooring
- Kitchen islands / extra workspace
Minor kitchen remodels consistently rank as having the highest ROI out of any home renovation project. Realtors generally agree that homeowners can recoup a large percentage of costs by boosting value and attracting more buyers.
Bathroom Remodel
If kitchens are the heart of your home, bathrooms are the crown jewels. Everyone judges a bathroom’s cleanliness as soon as they enter a house, and modern bathrooms create a “wow” factor.
Bathroom renovations also cost significantly less than kitchens on average. Making a bathroom look “high-end” doesn’t require open shelves and stainless steel appliances, as some kitchens do. Typical bathroom upgrades include:
- New vanity
- Modern fixtures
- Walk-in shower
- New tile work
- Better lighting
- Water-efficient toilets
- Additional storage
Because buyers pay close attention to bathroom details, updated bathrooms can accelerate your home’s sale. Another reason bathroom remodels provide such great returns is that you can recover most of your costs with midrange renovations.
You can sometimes increase the return on investment by adding an extra bathroom if your home only has one. Extra bathrooms are like luxury bathrooms in that they improve convenience and desirability to families.
Kitchen or Bathroom: Which is Better?
If you’re only looking at ROI, it really depends. Minor kitchen remodels can offer the best return of any home renovation project because they transform the space without breaking the bank. Updating things like cabinets, countertops, lighting, and appliances can give your kitchen a fresh new look.
Bathroom remodels are often right there with kitchens, or even beat them, in terms of percentage. Since bathrooms typically cost less to remodel, you can spend less money while still increasing your home’s value significantly.
It really comes down to what your home needs. If your kitchen is dated but bathrooms are nice, start there. If your bathroom could use some work but your kitchen is relatively modern, focus on the bathroom.
Take Your Neighborhood Into Account
A common mistake homeowners make is over-improving their house. Installing granite countertops, high-end cabinets, and fancy appliances may sound great, but what good is it if the homes on your block don’t have those features?
Equally nice bathroom additions are also a trend that can backfire if your neighborhood isn’t quite there. You don’t want to be the fanciest home in your immediate area because you likely will not see a good return on those upgrades.
Ideally, your house should be comparable to others in your neighbourhood or slightly nicer. This gives you the best chance of maximizing your home’s value. An experienced contractor can advise you on which renovations make the most financial sense.
Don’t Forget About Your Lifestyle
While it’s important to consider resale value, keep in mind that many homeowners don’t sell right away. Some homeowners could live in the same house for decades after remodeling.
So, although kitchens generally provide a higher ROI, if your family would benefit more from a bathroom remodel than a kitchen remodel, go with your gut. Everyone’s situation is unique, but here are a couple of questions to ask yourself.
Would a kitchen remodel improve your day-to-day life?
If you struggle with a dysfunctional kitchen, whether it be a poor layout, lack of storage, or outdated appliances, you could enjoy life more by remodeling the kitchen.
Would a bathroom remodel improve your day-to-day life?
As with the kitchen, if your family constantly battles a small shower, lacks storage, or trips over your outdated bathroom layout, consider changing it. Small changes could make a big difference in your everyday happiness.
Your new kitchen or bathroom doesn’t have to only bring value at resale. It can improve your family’s enjoyment of your home every day.
Kitchen Remodel or Bathroom Remodel?
Now that you’ve read this article, you should have a general idea of whether to remodel your kitchen or bathroom. Remember, there’s no right answer for everyone. Both options provide excellent returns and can boost your home’s value and functionality.
Kitchen remodels have a greater impact on buyers and typically create a bigger “wow factor” when someone walks through your front door. Bathroom remodels, on the other hand, can cost significantly less but can sometimes offer equal or greater returns.
Think about what your home needs and what will allow you to enjoy your house the most. Need some help making that decision? The experts at Turning Point Home Solutions can help. We’re passionate about turning dreams into reality and giving homeowners the home they’ve always wanted. Contact us today to start your remodeling journey!
