Replacing a bathtub in a master bedroom with a walk-in shower that packs a “wow” can be a strong selling point for a home going on the market.
Designed with low or no entry curbs, walk-in showers are easily accessible especially for those who have mobility issues. Design features can include no doors, glass stores, curtains or partial walls made of tile glass or other materials. Featuring an airy and spacious feel, walk-in showers can be visually pleasing as well as functional for today’s lifestyles.
However, there is an important caveat to keep in mind when considering this type of remodeling project. Real estate agents are quick to point out that removing all bathtubs in a home will limit potential buyers. Their advice is to make sure homes have at least one bathtub in order to appeal to young couples and families. Parents who have or are expecting children find it much easier to bathe them in tubs than in showers. In choosing which bathroom to keep the tub in, consider a hall bathroom that would provide easier access for bathing children or pets.
Bathtubs are also a must for buyers interested in high-end properties with multiple, well-equipped bathrooms. A freestanding tub in the master bath plus a large shower will appeal to buyers in this category.
In markets geared toward older people or professionals, it is not as important to have a home with a bathtub. In these markets, showers may be preferable to bathtubs since they support aging in place. If you are planning to remodel the master bath to attract this market, a curbless, spacious shower with a built-in shower bench and handheld showerhead will go far toward putting your home at the top of the “desirable” list. You may want to include multiple shower heads in a walk-in shower to deliver streams of water in a variety of ways from gentle to a more vigorous water massage of your muscles.
Built in or added as accessories, shower chairs and benches make it easier to enter and exit the shower. When not in use they can be folded up for storage.
If space in a small home or apartment does not allow for both a bathtub and a shower, focusing on shower space may be the best choice for updating a bathroom.
Remodeling a walk-in shower can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000; more economical premade kits range anywhere from $2,000 to $8,000 beyond the style you choose.
When redesigning a master bath to prepare a home for sale, make sure your own tastes and needs do not preempt market demands. Review your available space and local market. Then, you can make the best decisions on what bathroom design features should attract potential buyers.
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