Today’s buyers seek certain amenities, which may include a bathtub. While a bathtub isn’t a regulatory requirement for home selling, some buyers may prefer one. Learn what the expectations are regarding bathrooms when buying a home, plus what factors may influence their importance.
Bathroom Requirements and Expectations
Here are some of the most common buyer requirements and expectations when selling a house.
Building Codes and Regulations
Most states have building codes and regulations that set the minimum requirements for bathrooms in real estate. Building codes typically require minimum clearance around amenities, including the toilet, sink, or bathtub (shower). However, most codes don’t require a bathtub.
Buyer Expectations
Buyer expectations may differ from those of building codes and regulations. Most U.S. households have at least one bathtub. Certain buyer demographics, such as those with young kids, may also be more likely to request a house with a bathtub. In many households with more than one bathroom, at least one includes a bathtub.
However, this depends on the family. It’s common to give small children, such as toddlers, a bath at night. On the other hand, some parents may teach young children to take a shower instead of a bath when they are a few years old. It’s important to ask buyers if a bath is a personal requirement or expectation.
Impact on Market Value
Selling a home without one can lower its market value. However, because market value primarily depends on current market demand, how much it impacts the selling price depends on the specific market. The lack of a bathtub could reduce a home’s resale value for one group of buyers, but it could have the opposite effect on a different group of buyers.
Factors to Consider
Here are a few important factors that may impact having a bathtub when selling real estate.
Property Type and Location
Some real estate markets value a bathtub in the home more. For example, buyers may expect a bathtub more in a single-family home, especially one with multiple bathrooms. If the property is in an area with a homeowners’ association, explore whether you can refuse to join an HOA and how it might affect buyers.
However, in other markets, a home without a bathtub has minimal impact on its desirability or price. Condos or townhouses, for example, may be less likely to have a bathtub because of the need to maximize existing space.
Bathroom expectations may also vary by location. Rural or suburban homes tend to be larger and have more space, allowing for at least one bathroom with a bathtub. Urban housing has less space and is likely to have only a shower.
Target Market
The local market may also influence how important a bathtub is to selling a property.
Families with kids may expect or require a bathtub, whereas empty nesters may be more satisfied with a walk-in shower instead. Elderly homeowners may prefer taking baths, making a tub important to this population. Single or childless homeowners or first-time homebuyers may be more likely to choose a home with small bathrooms to save space.
Additionally, other features can help compensate for a tub-less house. Other desirable features in a shower-only bathroom include a spacious shower, spa shower, double sink vanity, or shower rainfall heads.
The bathroom design may be more important than the existence of a bathtub. A master bath, whether a walk-in shower or bathtub, is also desirable in many target markets.
Number of Bathrooms
The number of bathrooms in a home can also affect the importance of a bathtub. A home that has multiple bathrooms may not necessarily need multiple bathtubs. As long as there is at least one tub, prospective buyers may not care as much about what’s in the other bathrooms.
Additionally, a master bathroom can be a huge selling point, which may negate the need for a bathtub.
Some realtors, however, believe that a tub is a must, regardless of the market. The National Association of Realtors claims that large, supersized showers are all the rage, but many buyers still prefer the convenience of at least one tub to soak and relax.
Options for Selling a House Without a Bathtub
Here are a few options for selling a home with a shower-only bathroom.
Full Bathroom vs. Half Bathroom
Real estate listings include the number of bathrooms, and full versus half indicates the amenities available.
A half bathroom has only a sink and toilet and no shower stall or bathtub. A full bathtub has either a shower or a bathtub. Sellers can still market their home as having a full bathroom, even without a tub, as long as there is a shower.
Adding a Bathtub
Many homeowners may consider adding a bathtub before selling to reach a broader range of potential buyers. However, as with any renovation, it’s always a good idea to consider the return on investment (ROI) before paying for a remodel with a tub. A real estate agent can provide valuable information on if and by how much the tub will affect the home’s future resale value.
Homeowners may also consider a bathroom remodel to replace outdated bathtubs. However, a remodel that requires swapping bathtubs, either replacing an old tub or upgrading to a more modern one, also has a cost.
Marketing and Disclosure
It may be possible to reach the right buyer even without a tub. However, to ensure buyers are aware, it’s best to disclose the lack of a bathroom tub in marketing materials or during showings. Similarly, marketing other desirable amenities, such as a walk-in shower, can be valuable.
Pricing Strategically
A property with just a shower may need to be strategically priced to attract buyers. Some buyers may attempt to negotiate the deal or request that the seller cover the cost of a remodel that includes a tub. Sellers can also list at a competitive price to avoid negotiations or lowball offers.
Understanding your market and local buyer preferences can also be helpful when pricing. For example, if you plan to sell in a market with young families, you may need a more significant price reduction than in a market with younger couples who prefer long showers. If time is of the essence, learn how to sell your house in 5 days and bypass typical market challenges.
Sell a House Without a Bathtub to a Cash Home Buyer
While having a bathtub isn’t a legal requirement, it is a standard expectation among today’s home buyers. Sellers could renovate their homes to replace a walk-in shower with a bathtub, but that comes with a price.
A home without a bathtub doesn’t have to be a deal-breaker. The short answer is that a home without a bathtub could affect your selling ability. Selling to a cash home buyer can be a better solution as it allows you to set the terms of the sale.
No appraisals, inspections, or costly renovation requirements. This means you won’t have to pay for a remodel that includes installing a tub when you work with a cash buyer. Instead, offload your home on your schedule and move on to your dream home.
Contact A-List Properties today at (972) 526-7042 or use our online form to request a free cash offer.
Zach Shelley
Zach Shelley is a seasoned real estate investor with a diverse network spanning across the nation. As the founder of his own real estate venture, Zach is committed to offering innovative solutions to homeowners facing various real estate challenges.. Through his dedication and strategic approach, Zach continues to make a significant impact in the real estate industry, providing homeowners with alternative pathways to navigate their property transactions.
