A beautiful bathroom renovation creates a private spa-like retreat that you can enjoy anytime. It is worth the investment for that alone. But the good news is that a bathroom remodel adds resell value to your home. You can reap the rewards well after your last long soak in the tub.

How much? Depends on how stunning and functional the remodel is, of course, and on which realtor you ask. But there is a pretty fixed formula: According to the National Association of the Remodeling Industry, you can expect to recoup up to 50 percent of the cost.

Kitchens and bathrooms sell homes. That’s no secret. The key to making that happen for you one day is to be thoughtful when planning your renovation. What are you taking away? What are you adding? Why? Have you thought it through?

How Many Tubs Do You Really Need?

One thing I tell homeowners all of the time, for example, is that they don’t need more than one tub in the home. The rest of the bathrooms would be better served with walk-in showers. So lose some of the tubs and you’ll gain some space. One tub in the house is good for resell. More than that and you may be wasting space and money.

Warm Up to the Idea of Vinyl Flooring

Another is that maybe reconsider the heated tile floor. Is it really necessary? Luxury vinyl flooring is warmer than heated tile. You can save some money and get the same result when going that way instead.

Create Usable Space

You of course want a long and lovely vanity, perhaps with two sinks, and custom fixtures. You dream of a walk-in shower with seating and triple shower heads, maybe even steam. But have you thought about where you’ll put all of your towels and toiletries?

It’s the number one thing a lot of homeowners do not consider when renovating their bathroom — creating functional space. Make sure you’ve thought through where the washcloths, cotton balls, and rubber ducky will live. You’ll thank yourself later, and so will the next homeowner.

Think Accessibility

Many older homes are not equipped with accessible bathrooms. Upgrading yours adds real value and may come in handy one day. For people with disabilities or mobility issues, as well as seniors who are aging in place or moving in with family caregivers, safe and easy bathroom access is a must.

Some things to consider are widening the doorway, installing a walk-in tub or curbless shower, and adding handrails and grab bars. You could also swap a traditional vanity for a sink with clearance for a wheelchair.

Choose Carefully

A bathroom remodel is one of the most involved home renovations you may ever undertake. It typically involves ripping out and replacing old fixtures, flooring, plumbing, lighting, and electrical. There is waterproofing work to be done and perhaps walls to relocate. In other words, a lot more goes into a bathroom remodel than picking out a new showerhead.

You want to make sure you have a clear vision of what you want and are working with a contractor who can shoot you straight about what else you will need and how long it will take to do the job right. It’s not something you want to do twice. The good news is you should never have to.

Andy Tanges is owner of Strategic Remodel, Wichita’s premier residential remodeling contractor, since 2009. He’s been making homeowners happy since he was a kid working in the family business. He’s learned a thing or two over the years. Have a question for Andy or a vision for a remodel? Contact him here.