Bathroom or Kitchen First? What to Remodel When You’re on a Budget

By Dan Conway – Conway Home Remodeling, East Bridgewater, MA

When homeowners in East Bridgewater come to us with a tight budget and a long to-do list, the most common question we hear is: “Should I remodel the bathroom or the kitchen first?”

The short answer is: it depends on your goals. Whether you’re looking to improve daily functionality, boost resale value, or simply refresh the space you use most, here’s how to decide where to start.

Start with Your Needs and Lifestyle

If your kitchen is where your family gathers every night, or if you love to cook and entertain, the kitchen remodel might deliver the most daily impact. On the other hand, if your bathroom has leaks, poor ventilation, or dated fixtures that make mornings feel stressful, that space might take priority.

Ask yourself:

Which space feels more urgent?
Where do you spend the most time?
What’s causing the most frustration?

Consider the Return on Investment (ROI)

Both kitchen and bathroom remodels offer strong ROI, but kitchens typically edge out bathrooms when it comes to increasing home value. That said, even a minor bathroom remodel—new tile, vanity, or tub—can make a big impression on potential buyers.

If resale is in your near future, we usually recommend starting with the kitchen, especially if it’s outdated or poorly laid out.

Look at the Condition of Each Room

Some homeowners already have a partially updated bathroom or a kitchen with relatively new appliances. If one space already has modern elements, focus on the one that’s lagging behind.

Quick rule of thumb:

Outdated kitchen layout + old appliances? → Start with kitchen.
Cracked tile + water damage + poor lighting? → Start with bathroom.

Budget Wisely

Bathroom remodels typically cost less than full kitchen renovations. So if your budget is limited but you still want to make an impact, updating a bathroom first can be a smart move. It allows you to complete a full project without overextending your finances.

What We Recommend at Conway Home Remodeling

At Conway Home Remodeling, we always recommend starting with the project that aligns best with your goals. We offer consultations that help you prioritize your remodels, whether it’s tackling one room or creating a phased plan for the entire home.

We’ve helped dozens of East Bridgewater homeowners make the most of their remodeling budgets — and we’re happy to do the same for you.

Ready to start your next remodeling project?
Give us a call or send us a message to schedule your free estimate.

Bathroom or Kitchen First? What to Remodel When You’re on a Budget