Whether you want a spa or just a spruce-up in the bathroom, it's still a wise investment

By Susan Love, The Plain Dealer
September 25, 2009, 8:10AM

For about 10 years, luxurious spalike bathroom remodels have been at the top of the list for many homeowners. One of the rationales for pouring money into what is usually the smallest room in the house is that homeowners would get all -- if not a little more -- back in resale value.

Even in today's weak economy, a bathroom upgrade continues to be a wise investment.

In a 2008-2009 survey, Remodeling magazine estimated in a Cost vs. Value survey that an average midrange bathroom remodel in Cleveland costs $15,899, with owners recouping 74.6 percent of that cost (or $11,857) in a home's increased value. In 2006, a midrange remodel (costing an average of $13,574) saw a 71.8 percent return on the investment.

For upscale projects, the cost is $51,455, with a 70.7 percent return on investment. In 2006, an upscale renovation ($39,846) recouped 67.4 percent.

But as many homes struggle to regain value lost during the downturn, homeowners are becoming a bit cautious about dumping too much money into a bathroom upgrade. Luckily, there are ways to get luxury on both small and larger budgets. It just takes a little planning and allocating the "luxury" money.

"A must-have is a good shower," said Jack Suvak, director of market research and insight at North Olmsted-based Moen Inc.

That means invest in a good showerhead -- with top options being the so-called "rain" showerheads. Prices can range from just around $50 (not counting installation) to thousands of dollars for a remote-controlled "body spray" system.

"Invest in a vertical spa," added Suvak. "They are incredible."

The ioDigital line from Moen, with remote controls and multiple sprays, is one way to enjoy a luxury experience. Hardware can cost up to $1,700 for a set of sprays.

Or, for the more budget conscious, Moen carries the Banbury suite line of products (available at Home Depot), which offers many faucets and accessories for under $100.

Other luxury items include floor materials (tile is best), high-end counter surfaces (especially granite and marble), and, if you are feeling very adventuresome, invest in some heated floors, add warming lamps in the ceiling, and, what the heck, get piped-in music and a built-in TV (go to hiddentv.com).

The cost of those vary widely, depending on the age of your home, the system you want to buy, and where you want the TV installed. At the A Trendy Home Web site, a TV in a mirror was $1,599.99.

Hudson interior designer Pamela Bayer notes that many of the items in high-budget renovations can be used in smaller-budget bathroom re-dos. For example, both can have high-end accessories on the sink, plush towels on chrome towel bars and nicely tiled floors.

For any renovation, it would be a good idea to consult the experts -- including designers, plumbers and electricians (the latter being especially important in a room that centers on the use of water).

The Ohio Design Center in Beachwood (www.ohiodesigncentre.com), formerly open only "to the trade" designers, has now opened its doors to the public 11 a.m.-3 p.m. every Friday for browsing and consultations.

Also, many area showrooms, such as the Kraftmaid showroom in Chagrin Falls (KraftMaid Experience, 21 N. Franklin St.) cater to all budgets and often include the service of an interior designer.