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The $30,000 Bathroom Remodel in Stamford, CT
Aka the Dated Do-Over
Photo: Siraphol / cherezoff / Ratchat / Getty Images
Photo: Siraphol / cherezoff / Ratchat / Getty Images
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Welcome to Nosy Neighbor, where we ask all the questions you can’t about home projects and money. From incredible deals to domestic dramas, we’re bringing you real stories—and the real numbers.
Want to (anonymously) share your own story? Let’s get honest, neighbor.
Age: 38
Location: Stamford, CT
How much did you pay for your home?
$500,000–$750,000
What was the project, and why did you do it?
Bathroom remodel. [The original bathroom] was old and outdated, with mold around the jacuzzi tub and peeling formica counters.
How many quotes did you get? Did you price shop at all?
Two quotes—both from folks who had done work on other houses on our street.
What did you think it was going to cost?
Around $20,000
What did it actually cost?
$30,000
Why the difference?
Various upgrades—things like a Toto bidet versus a cheaper model of toilet.
How did you get the money to pay for the project?
Savings
What did you splurge on that was totally worth it?
The soaker stand-alone bathtub ($715.20). I love it!
What did you splurge on that totally wasn’t worth it?
Honestly, I don't know. The contractor would list out all the items together with the total and not itemize it. So we spent $6,600 on hardware, the vanity, and the tub together, but I don't know what each thing cost on its own.
I’m super happy with everything, though.
Did you cut any corners?
Not a cut corner exactly, but we didn't do a heated floor, which we originally priced out.
What was the most surprising cost?
This is the first home reno project I've done, so everything was pretty surprising!
What was the most stressful, emotional, or exciting part of the project?
It was surprising seeing the space totally gutted. It made the bathroom seem so small, and we started to question if we would be able to fit everything we wanted.
The homeowners guide to kitchen and bathroom remodels
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