5 Bathroom Features That Will Lower Your Home’s Value, According to a Realtor In 2024

Importance Of Bathroom In Homes

When selling your home, the bathroom plays a significant role in its overall appeal and value. In 2024, potential buyers are increasingly selective about bathroom features. Certain outdated or impractical design choices can lower the value of your home. Understanding which bathroom features to avoid can help you make smart updates that increase your property’s appeal and ultimately its market value.

A bathroom with gold faucets and blue wallpaper. A cozy bathroom with a patterened blue wallpaper, grey cabinet, gold faucet and mirrors, and a tiled walk-in shower. BATHROOM stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images

5 Bathroom Features That Will Lower Your Home’s Value, According to a Realtor In 2024

Luxury Bathroom Interior With Shower, Toilet And Mirror Luxury Bathroom Interior With Shower, Toilet And Mirror BATHROOM stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images

1. Outdated or Overly Customized Design

Bathrooms that feature outdated designs or overly customized elements can quickly turn off potential buyers. Bright or unconventional colors, mismatched tiles, or overly personalized fixtures can make the bathroom feel unappealing. A modern, neutral design is often more attractive to a wide range of buyers, helping the space feel more versatile and less like a project for renovation.

Loft Bathroom Design Loft Bathroom Design. 3D Render BATHROOM Outdated or Overly Customized Design stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images

2. Excessive Luxury Features

While some buyers may appreciate luxury features, others may find them excessive or impractical. Features like oversized bathtubs, expensive shower systems, or heated floors might seem appealing at first glance but can significantly reduce the appeal for potential buyers who prefer more functional, budget-friendly upgrades. It’s essential to strike a balance between style and practicality in your bathroom design.

3d rendering modern bathroom with luxury tile decor 3d rendering interior and exterior design BATHROOM Excessive Luxury Features stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images

3. Poor Layout or Layout Obsolescence

A poorly designed bathroom layout can make the space feel cramped and inefficient. A layout that doesn’t maximize the space available, such as awkward placements for sinks or bathtubs, can frustrate buyers. In 2024, buyers prioritize function, so a bathroom that is awkwardly laid out or lacks sufficient storage and counter space may turn buyers away.

A bathroom with gold accents and a shower with green subway tiles. A bathroom with a wood vanity cabinet, gold hardware and faucet, and a shower with green subway tiles. Bathroom Stock Photo

4. Low-Quality Materials

Using cheap or low-quality materials in a bathroom may give it a “cheap” appearance and lower its overall value. Materials like laminate countertops, low-grade tiles, or inexpensive plumbing fixtures are less durable and can show signs of wear and tear over time. Investing in high-quality materials such as granite, marble, or ceramic tiles can help increase your bathroom’s perceived value and longevity.

Photo of the bathroom floor with weight scale Photo of the bathroom floor with weight scale in the foreground BATHROOM Low-Quality Materials stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images

5. Lack of Proper Ventilation

Bathrooms that suffer from poor ventilation are prone to moisture buildup, which can lead to mold, mildew, and unpleasant odors. Not only does this affect the bathroom’s atmosphere, but it can also lead to more serious issues like water damage. A well-ventilated bathroom with a functioning exhaust fan ensures proper airflow and helps prevent these problems, making it more attractive to buyers.

yacht interior toilet/bathroom yacht interior toilet/bathroom BATHROOM Lack of Proper Ventilation stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images

Conclusion

Renovating or upgrading your bathroom can be a smart move when preparing to sell your home, but it’s important to avoid features that could reduce its value. Outdated designs, excessive luxury, poor layouts, low-quality materials, and inadequate ventilation are all factors that can negatively impact your bathroom’s appeal. A well-designed, functional bathroom can increase your home’s resale value and attract more buyers.

 FAQs

  1. Can a bathroom remodel increase my home’s resale value?
    Yes, a well-executed bathroom remodel can increase your home’s resale value. Focus on neutral designs, functional layouts, and quality materials to appeal to more buyers.
  2. What’s a 0.5 bathroom worth?
    A 0.5 bathroom typically refers to a small half-bath with only a toilet and sink. While it’s not as valuable as a full bathroom, it can still add value, especially in homes with multiple bedrooms.
  3. What bathroom features do buyers want in 2024?
    In 2024, buyers typically seek modern designs, energy-efficient fixtures, quality materials, ample storage, and good ventilation.
  4. How much should I spend on a bathroom remodel before selling my house?
    On average, you should expect to spend between $5,000 to $15,000 on a bathroom remodel depending on the size and extent of the changes. Ensure that the remodel aligns with your home’s overall value.
  5. Does adding a bathtub or shower increase home value?
    Yes, adding a bathtub or a walk-in shower can increase home value, especially in homes that have only one bathroom or lack this feature.
  6. How do I make a small bathroom look bigger before selling?
    Use light colors, install mirrors, and maximize vertical storage. Keep the space clutter-free to give the illusion of more room.
  7. What is the average ROI for a bathroom remodel?
    Bathroom remodels typically provide an ROI of around 60-70%, depending on the scale of the remodel and the location of the home.
  8. How do I update my bathroom without spending too much money?
    You can make a significant difference by painting the walls, updating the fixtures, replacing old hardware, and installing a new shower curtain or mirror.
  9. Should I install a double sink to increase home value?
    Double sinks can be appealing to many buyers, especially in larger homes or master bathrooms. However, they might not be necessary for smaller bathrooms.
  10. Is it worth replacing the toilet before selling my home?
    If the toilet is old, outdated, or malfunctioning, it’s worth replacing it. A new, modern toilet can improve the bathroom’s appearance and functionality.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *