If you’re considering ways to increase your home’s value, you’ve probably thought about the kitchen, maybe new flooring… but what about adding a bathroom?
In many cases, adding a bathroom can significantly boost your home’s resale value, especially in competitive markets like Hampton Roads, North Carolina, and the Eastern Shore. But before you break out the sledgehammer, here’s what you need to know from a professional appraisal standpoint More Bathrooms = More Value
According to the National Association of Home Builders, adding a full bathroom can increase a home’s value by up to 20%, depending on location, layout, and the current number of bathrooms (source). Homes with fewer than two bathrooms often see the biggest return on investment.
In fact, Remodeling Magazine’s 2023 Cost vs. Value Report estimates that a midrange bathroom addition in the South Atlantic region recoups around 50–60% of its cost at resale (source). That’s not bad—especially if your current bathroom situation is holding back your home’s marketability. When It’s Worth It
If your home has only one bathroom: Adding even a half-bath can make a huge difference in buyer appeal.
If there’s unused space: Think closets, under-stair areas, or space near the laundry room.
If you're prepping to sell soon: Strategic upgrades like this can make your listing stand out in markets like Chesapeake, VA or Moyock, NC.
When to Think Twice
If it throws off your floor plan: A weird layout can hurt more than help.
If the plumbing work is extensive: Costs can skyrocket quickly.
If you’re over-improving: Don’t go for a spa-level buildout if your neighborhood comps don’t support it.
Before you make a major renovation decision, get a professional opinion. At Angel’s Appraisals, we provide objective home valuations across Hampton Roads, North Carolina, and the Eastern Shore. Our certified appraisers can tell you exactly how an additional bathroom might impact your property’s value—and if it’s worth the investment.
Adding a bathroom can increase your home’s value—but only if it makes sense for your layout, budget, and market. Think of it as a strategic investment, not just a home improvement.
Curious how your home stacks up in your local market? Contact Angel’s Appraisals today for a professional evaluation.
One of the most critical principles in real estate appraisal is ensuring that property comparisons are made on an 'apples to apples' basis. That means selecting comparable properties that closely match the subject home in terms of location, size, condition, amenities, and other key factors.
As noted by HousingWire, inaccurate comps can lead to inflated or deflated appraisals that affect buyer decisions, lender risk, and homeowner equity (source: https://www.housingwire.com/articles/45364-appraising-apples-to-apples/). The goal is to minimize adjustments by choosing the most similar homes available and understanding how minor differences impact value.
Spurgeon Appraisals explains that appraisers must look beyond square footage and bedroom count to evaluate elements like curb appeal, interior updates, and neighborhood influence (source: https://www.spurgeonappraisals.com/basic-appraisal-concepts/apples-oranges-and-comparable-sales). At Angel’s Appraisals, we pride ourselves on our detailed approach to selecting comps that reflect true market behavior—ensuring our clients receive accurate, fair valuations every time.
Learn more at https://www.angelsappraisals.com/
When it comes to residential real estate, few features are as desirable—or as complex to value—as a waterview. Properties with views of lakes, rivers, or the ocean often command a premium price, but appraising them accurately requires a nuanced understanding of market dynamics, environmental factors, and buyer perception.
According to Allstate Appraisal, homes with waterviews can vary dramatically in value depending on whether the view is unobstructed, partially obstructed, or seasonal (source: https://www.allstateappraisal.net/appraisals-and-water-frontage-what-you-need-to-know/). Other important factors include whether the property has direct water access, if the body of water is navigable, and the potential for flooding or erosion.
Appraise It Now emphasizes the importance of local comparables when appraising waterfront homes. Adjustments must be made based on the proximity to the water, elevation, and overall market demand in the area (source: https://www.appraiseitnow.com/blog/appraisals-for-waterfront-properties-assessing-coastal-and-lakeside-real-estate). At Angel’s Appraisals, we specialize in understanding the unique value drivers of waterview homes in Virginia and North Carolina. Whether you're buying, selling, or refinancing, trust us to deliver an accurate, honest valuation that reflects true market conditions.
For more information, visit us at https://www.angelsappraisals.com/