If you are searching for a remodeling project that will have an immediate impact on the value of your home, you have to look no farther than your bathroom. It has been proven that homeowners who invest in updating the style and layout of their current bathroom see their home’s value increase exponentially. Simply put, for very little money, you can conduct a bathroom remodeling project that will have long-term benefits.

Remodeling your bathroom is not as simply as hiring a contractor and replacing bathroom fixtures and cabinets. One wrong decision can actually detract from your home’s appeal. Before you begin your next bath remodel, consider the following key points:

• Flooring: Dirty, outdated or worn flooring is an immediate detractor. A new, well laid floor catches the eye and opens up the entire layout. While a new tile or stone floor may seem expensive, it is certainly well worth the investment.

• Sinks: If you want to add an instant ‘wow’ factor to your bathroom, consider installing a pair of sinks. Affectionately dubbed "his and hers" sinks, this is an amenity that prospective homebuyers are instantly attracted to.

• Fixtures and Lighting: One of the quickest and easiest ways to get drastic results is to simply update the fixtures and lighting. This project, which can be completed in a single afternoon, can have the effect of giving your bathroom an entirely new look.

• Cabinets and Countertops: Old and outdated cabinets and countertops are another serious detractor. These features can serve as the focal point for the entire room. So, it is important to find a clean universal look.

• A Second Bath: To add instant value to your home, you may want to consider turning a half bath into a full bath or adding another bathroom entirely. While such a project may seem overwhelming, it can have immediate benefits.

In the end, the best advice is to consider the reasons for your bathroom remodel. Are you planning on selling your home? Or, are you simply hoping to update the current layout to fit your lifestyle? If there is a possibility that you will be selling your home within the next five years, avoid adding too much personal flair to your bathroom’s design. Instead, make changes that will appeal to a diverse group of homebuyers.