Turning your bathroom into an elegant sanctuary

Bathroom remodels are among the most popular renovations when taking on a home improvement project.

Whether you're undertaking the project to sell your property or update your fixer-upper, bathrooms tend to provide a return on investment, which is why many homeowners make these rooms part of their priorities when updating their properties.

If you plan to enjoy the new bathroom for some time before selling the house, you can make the space more convenient and elegant. Are you tired of fighting with your spouse for room at the sink in the morning while you're both getting ready for work? If so, a double vanity can be beneficial. Additionally, a spa bath may be on your list of features if you need a space to relax at the end of the day.

Regardless of how big or small of a bathroom remodel you're considering, you'll want to follow a few tips to ensure your project goes smoothly:

• Get your budget in order. You may have a laundry list of must-haves for remodeling your bathroom, but that doesn't necessarily mean you can afford everything you want. Before you contact contractors or begin any of the work you're taking on yourself, determine how much you can spend on this project. If you have a tight budget, you may not want to spring for the high-end finishes and heated floors.
• Have a contingency. Sometimes, there's no telling what's happening behind your walls until you rip them open. With bathrooms, mold issues can be particularly prevalent given the amount of moisture that occurs in the space. For serious mold cases, you'll need to schedule a mold inspection to assess the issue and pay for the removal services. These and other unexpected expenses are likely not your first thought when budgeting, which is why you need a contingency. These emergency funds can cover unforeseen costs so you don't have to sacrifice any features you want to save money.
• Order materials in advance. Certain items for your remodel - the vanity, tile and other materials - may not be available to pick up from a store the same day. In certain cases, you'll have to wait a few weeks for the delivery. When setting a schedule for your home improvement project, factor in the time it will take for these items to arrive. You don't want to take time off work to update your bathroom only to have all your materials on backorder. 
• Update the lighting. The look of your bathroom is dependent on the lighting as much as it is on the finishes and fixtures you choose. Dark and dim bathrooms don't catch a viewer's eye, so look into new fixtures that can work in your space. If you have a skinnier mirror, for instance, you can flank it with sconces.
• Call a professional for certain parts. Although there are several parts of a bathroom remodel you can do yourself, other aspects require a professional touch. Plumbing issues, for example, should be handled by a licensed plumber. Also, don't be afraid to seek professional help if you don't know what to do for any other parts of the project. It's better you get assistance rather than become overwhelmed or make a costly mistake that can lead to other issues later, such as water damage from a poorly installed shower head.
• Don't forget ventilation and water use. To prevent future mold formation, ensure your bathroom is properly ventilated. Furthermore, consider how much water certain features will use. Spa tubs can be relaxing, but that same feeling may not be present when you see how much it costs to fill these tubs.