Plumbing Upgrades –The Basics

Buyers and sellers often hear about plumbing upgrades, but just what does this mean? Generally speaking, upgraded plumbing in the context of buying or selling a home refers to both fixtures and/or the plumbing system itself. Here’s our list of the most frequently recommended upgrades:

Fixtures

• New faucets are an easy way to add style to kitchens and baths without a lot of spend. If a home is being prepped for sale, use fixtures that will appeal to the most potential buyers. The idea is not necessarily to draw attention to the faucets, but to demonstrate that they’re modern and in good condition.
• Toilets are another simple upgrade that will also have a positive effect on how the home is perceived. If space allows, an elongated bowl and a high-profile height are smart choices. A neutral colour that works with the existing tile and walls is always best.
• A shower upgrade can be as basic as adding a handheld shower unit to the existing setup, or install a rain-type shower head, which are very popular in new homes. Also consider a thermostatic valve for the shower, which prevents scalding while the shower is running. It’s a nice feature that’s inexpensive to add.

Piping

• Home re-piping continues to grow in popularity for older homes. During this process, all water lines in the home are replaced. Sometimes the line from the water main to the house may need to be replaced as well.
• Why re-piping? Over time, old galvanized metal pipes will degenerate, increasing the potential for leaks, reducing water flow, and causing material to flake off inside the pipes. The taste and appearance of water can also be adversely affected. Some older homes have lead pipes, which are less subject to corrosion but pose a serious health hazard for children.
• Typically, replacement piping is made of cooper or one of several types of PVC. The best material to use depends on a number of factors, including the hardness of the water and winter temperatures. Always seek out the opinions of several contractors before making the important- and not inexpensive-decision to re-pipe the home. Depending on your location, re-piping may not pay off in terms of return on investment but could be a very appealing feature to a potential buyer.

Buyers typically don’t want to think about plumbing, so upgrades are often welcome. As with any upgrades, however, consider market conditions and comparables when making recommendations to your sellers.