Yeah, inspectors can be all over the map sometimes. I've had one inspector flag minor grout discoloration as a "potential moisture issue," while another completely overlooked a pretty obvious plumbing shortcut the previous owner took. Makes you wonder how much is personal preference versus actual code.
As for bathroom remodel costs, mine ran about $8k, but I did a lot of the demo myself and sourced fixtures on sale. If you're hiring out everything and going mid-range finishes, I'd say expect closer to $12-15k. High-end stuff or major layout changes can easily push you north of $20k. One thing I've learned: always budget an extra 10-15% for surprises—because there's almost always something lurking behind those walls...
Haha, inspectors really can be a mixed bag. I had one who spent 20 minutes lecturing me on eco-friendly caulking choices (which I appreciated, but still...), yet completely missed the fact that the previous owner had stuffed newspaper behind the drywall as insulation. Go figure.
As for remodel costs, mine was around $10k, but I went heavy on sustainable materials—reclaimed wood vanity, low-flow fixtures, recycled glass tiles—which bumped up the price a bit. Totally worth it though for peace of mind and lower water bills.
Curious if anyone else has tried eco-friendly or reclaimed materials in their remodel? Did you find it significantly pricier or about the same once you factored in long-term savings?
Haha, inspectors definitely have their blind spots. I once had one obsess over a loose cabinet hinge but completely ignore the ancient wiring behind the walls. Anyway, eco-friendly stuff can add up upfront, but I've found reclaimed materials—especially wood—can actually save money if you're willing to hunt around salvage yards or online marketplaces. Plus, nothing beats that unique character you get from repurposed stuff...
Totally agree on reclaimed wood—it's a lifesaver. I snagged some old barn boards online, sanded them down (took forever, but worth it), and turned them into shelves. Saved cash and got compliments from everyone who visits...even my picky mother-in-law liked them, haha.
Reclaimed wood definitely helps stretch the budget. I did something similar—found some old pallets, carefully dismantled them (watch for hidden nails!), sanded, and sealed them. Turned out great as accent wall panels in our half-bath... tedious but rewarding. Saved at least a couple hundred bucks.
