Bathroom remodel on my first RE investment - recommendations?

[Sylvia Schumacher]

Hello!

I am closing on my first RE property in a week and it's a 3-1 SF in a B- to C-grade Cleveland area. Trying to rehab the house and then planning to rent it out.

I was hoping to get some inspiration from the BP community on how to remodel the bathroom in an inexpensive (but yet effective) way! It currently lacks a shower head in the wall. Is there an option to keep the tile as is and add more tile just above that (I assume this isn't recommended but figured it was worth to ask). My preference was a durable initially but my understanding is that's not reasonable given that there is a window right behind?

I am grateful for any advice. On the side, I am also grateful if anyone knows a good contractor for this type of work and is willing to refer them. Sharing photos extracted from my only video. Apologies for the quality but don't have photos of the bathroom yet!

Thanks a lot!

[Richard F.]

Aloha,

Errant water is your worst enemy as a LL. Whatever you do, you should do a quality job focused on long term durability. My recommendation, based on the apparent age of the tub plumbing and fixture, would be to remove the tub, change the window to a high short window (you do not want shower spray deteriorating the window and frame), replace the drain and waste line as well as the faucet and supplies, adding a shower riser. Install hardybacker and completely tile the floor (with new shower pan, short curb, and proper slope to the drain) and walls. I do not install soap dishes or shelves in the surround (they are always first to become damaged or loose over time), instead provide an organizer that hangs on the shower arm. A shower curtain and rod is simple but effective in a smallish bathroom.

Keep in mind, unless that tub and the drain piping have been updated in the past 15 years, they may be ok, but know that any problem with those going forward, will require removal of any new tub surround that is installed over the new tub, and it will not be reuseable. If you choose to "reglaze" the existing (porcelain, I assume) tub, that presents a very good appearance when properly done, but will usually only last 5 - 7 years at best. Your faucets are not to current code, as they are not "anti-scald", so changing them and adding a shower riser would be a minimal approach, but doable. Another alternative is a fiberglass or similar tub and surround "kit". These are the worst choice, as improperly installed, or, properly but of poor construction to begin with, they will flex with use and the bottom will crack and leak, often within 3-5 years. Both reglazed and the fiberglass type tubs and surrounds are also subject to damage from improper cleaning, causing scratches and loss of "shine". The walk in shower option, correctly done, will be a 30 year job, and will keep the water where it belongs with minimal maintenance.