Value of adding a half bath

[Don Pham]

Hello all, in theory it seems like adding a half (or whole) bath to a property with 1 bathroom as an outsized effect on rental values. How does this pan out in practice? Obviously it depends on ease and therefore cost of adding a half/whole bath as well as what's common in the area, but is it a common target of opportunity? By extension, what about the value of a full bath over a half bath? I'm primarily concerned with increasing potential rent, but secondarily home values as well. Thank you all in advance for your counsel!

[Karl B.]

I would have LOVED to have had a 1/2 bath (and not just a 1.0) in my house in Los Angeles (I had a 1.5 in my condo prior to moving to L.A. which was great because guests could use the 1/2 bath and not have to use my bathroom - I think there are a surprising amount of people who feel the same way I do and aren't indifferent about it).

It all comes down to cost VS rent as well as how much more money you can make, etc. 

One good idea is calling a property management company and asking them how much of a bump in rent you can expect for an extra 1/2 (as well as an extra 1.0 bathroom).