If you’re prepping your home for sale, you’ll want to consider renovations that are the real money-makers. Bathroom and kitchen renovations are notoriously expensive, so you may be tempted to avoid them. But of all the rooms in your home, these two are typically the most important to buyers – and can influence their decision to make an offer or not. 

So don’t rule out the bathroom reno! It’s a great way to add value and appeal to your property. And with these five tips, you can renovate your bathroom for the best return.

1. Project Management

The key to a successful bathroom renovation is proper project management. Yes, bathroom renovations are expensive and poor planning can cause your project costs to blow out, along with the timeframe. Take the time to research, get a clear picture of your budget, and make a list of exactly what you want to achieve before getting started.

Many bathroom renovations require more than just a plumber. You may need tilers, electricians, carpenters, waterproofers and other relevant trades. All these need to be organised in the right order so that some jobs do not disrupt others or cause damage. so chat with a builder or plumber to ensure you get the order of trades right.

Avoid Relocating Pipes

Avoid relocating pipes and drains. It’s a big and expensive task. A big remodel is probably not worth the return. “The cost of moving a drain could exceed the cost of all your fancy new tapware and fixtures combined. If you can leave the pipes alone, you can halve your reno costs,” says Brisbane plumbing expert, John Salmon. Instead, consult your local plumber to help plan your renovation to optimise the space with your existing pipe placement.

Avoid Certain DIYs

There are some things that you should never DIY. Even if you’ve watched every season of The Block, there are jobs you shouldn’t try – and others that are illegal if you don’t have the right qualifications. Doing your own tiling might save you a buck, but unlicensed plumbing and electrical work is incredibly dangerous and leaves you liable for huge fines. Does your budget cover that? 

Consider Aesthetics

The first thing a buyer will notice is how the bathroom looks. While functionality is your priority, you don’t want your bathroom looking dated, old or rundown. Simple and affordable updates that will modernise and renew the space include repainting and replacing fittings like tapware and vanities. 

Think About the Future

Bathrooms should last in both aesthetics and function. Your buyers want it to feel comfortable and visually appealing for years to come. Avoid quirky trends. Not only will they date quickly, but they’re also less likely to appeal to the majority of buyers. Aim for classic and timeless. A bathroom that looks sleek, clean and spacious is always a winner.


About the author


This contribution is by John Salmon, master plumber, entrepreneur and founder of Salmon Plumbing. John’s dedication to advancing industry practices, advancing plumber conditions and standards and actively pursuing sustainability in plumbing has seen him recognised with the 2023 Master Plumbers’ Association of Queensland (MPAQ) President’s Award. His passion for energy and water-efficient solutions, paired with a commitment to customer service and excellence at the core of his business model since 1991, ensures John’s place as one of Brisbane’s trusted residential and commercial plumbers.  Read John Salmon’s expert profile in full here.