I would say that the fact is 'saving' is singular and 'savings' is plural. This dictates the verb that follows. You could say A saving of $20 is ... or Savings of $20 are ...
A basement bathroom can be built for about $15,200, Fred estimates. Of that, plumbing is the largest component. These prices are based on costs for a small bath measuring about 6 by 8 feet, with 8-foot ceilings. However, many basements are limited to a 7-foot ceiling. Another potential cost-saving location for a new bathroom is the attic.
Answer: the cost of putting in a bathroom in an attic will average $15,000. The big variable is where the sewer and water supply pipes relative to the spot in the attic where you want the bathroom.