Pennsylvania Offers One of the Lowest Returns on Investments for Bathroom Remodeling

That bathroom remodel may not be the most financially sound decision if you live in Pennsylvania.

For a mid-range remodel, Fixr.com found that in Pennsylvania, homeowners only recoup about 49.3% of what they spend, below the national average of 58.3%. Despite being one of the most popular home improvement projects, for those looking to update their homes before listing them to attract more buyers, a bathroom remodel may not be the best use of a remodeling budget. But there are a few smaller fixes that homeowners can do to update their bathroom without major costs. Fixr suggested updating an old ceramic floor, which will cost between $500 and $2,500 on average and will brighten the bathroom. Realtor.com® recommends updating the vanity, whether it is replacing it with a double-sink one, painting it or replacing it. Another easy fix, and one most homeowners can do on their own, is to update hardware and accessories, such as sink fixtures, lights and doorknobs. New accessories can make a bathroom look more polished. Another suggestion by Realtor.com® is to replace what you can with neutrals. While replacing a pink tile shower may not be in the budget, updating décor with neutrals can help soften any outdated or bright colors.

Regardless of return on investment, for the majority of homeowners, a bathroom remodel brings them much joy, they said. According to NAR’s 2022 Remodeling Impact report, a bathroom renovation scored a 9.6 out of 10 on a joy score for those who complete the project, and 73% said they have a greater desire to stay home since finishing the renovation, while 64% said they feel a sense of accomplishment when they think of their renovation and 61% said their sense of enjoyment has increased.