DIY Network

Bedroom Build-Out, Pt. 4: Value Boosts and Final Tally A single bedroom becomes two, and a closet becomes a bath in this equity-building makeover. Check out more value-enhancing projects from Sweat Equity. From "Sweat Equity" episode DSEQ-207

By saving money on materials and on labor, the Smiths were able to keep their bed/bath add on at $11,000, going over their budget but still giving them a $9,000 boost in equity.

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	Before
	After

Value-Enhancing Tips: Bed and Bath Addition

• The Smith's decided their master suite (figure A) was big enough that it could be divided into another bed and their extra closet could easily be another bathroom without taking away from the home value. Adding a bed and a bath to your home, as opposed to an office or a den, is almost always an equity-boosting project.

• Adding a high efficiency toilet to your home is a great way to save 8,760 gallons of water each year, that's roughly $50 to $100. And at a price of $150, the Smith's decided the long-term savings were worth the cost.

• As for the tile installation (figure B) Erik's tile experience was limited and, considering the amount of tile he had to install and the intricate design he wanted, hiring a professional to do it would have saved him $1,000, putting his project under budget. No matter how big or how small the renovation job is, if you don't feel comfortable tackling it yourself, it may cost less in the long run to hire a professional.

	Figure A
	Figure B

Final tally:

fireplace = $3,000
plumbing = $2,500
electric = $2,000
tile/re-tile = $1,400
tub = $400
vanity = $300
toilet = $150
misc. = $1,250

TOTAL = $11,000

realtor's estimated value increase = $20,000
total cost of material = $11,000

NET RETURN ON INVESTMENT = $9,000

RESOURCES :

Western Fireplace Supply Website: www.westernfireplace.com

Heat & Glo Website: www.hearthnhome.com