Remodeling the bathroom is one of the smartest and most effective home improvement projects you can do. Redoing and modernizing your bathroom can make your home more livable, but a 21st century bathroom can also make your home more valuable.

If you are considering a remodel for your outdated bathroom, it is important to think long and hard about the vanity you select. Choosing the right vanity can make your new bathroom look even more spectacular, while making the wrong choice could break your budget and torpedo the entire remodeling project.

If space is tight, a freestanding vanity can be a great choice. Freestanding vanities are often found in smaller bathrooms, and they are great for conserving space. A freestanding vanity can also be a smart choice for oddly shaped bathrooms, as they give you additional options for using the rest of the space.

If you have the space and like the look, a built-in vanity can also be a smart choice. One of the biggest drawbacks of freestanding vanities is that they do not come with any storage space. Built-in units, on the other hand, double as storage cabinets. If storage is at a premium in your bathroom, it might make sense to trade the small size and flexibility of a freestanding vanity for the practicality of a built-in unit.

If you do choose a built-in vanity, you will need to decide whether to buy it with or without a top. Buying the vanity and top together is certainly the easiest choice, but doing so means you are stuck with the top that comes with the vanity. If you want additional freedom and flexibility, buying a topless vanity will give you additional choices.

You can find both freestanding and built-in vanities in a wide variety of price points, so it is important to shop around carefully and consider your own budget. Money is almost always a consideration when remodeling the bathroom, and choosing the right vanity can make your bathroom remodel both easier and more affordable.