17 Bathroom Features to Avoid if You Want to Protect Your Home’s Value

Did you know that according to a 2019 study by the National Association of Realtors, bathroom remodels have an average return on investment of 71%?1 This statistic underscores the significant impact that bathroom features can have on your home’s value.

While a well-designed bathroom can boost your property’s appeal, certain elements may actually detract from its worth. Here are 17 bathroom features that could be tanking your home’s value.

1. An Impractical Floor Plan

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When it comes to bathrooms, functionality is key. A layout that is awkward or inefficient can be a major drawback for potential buyers. People want a bathroom that flows well and is easy to navigate.

A poorly planned layout can make the space feel cramped and uncomfortable. To maximize your bathroom’s appeal, aim for a layout that makes the best use of the available space and allows for easy movement.

2. Ditching the Tub

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While sleek, stand-alone showers are trending, getting rid of the tub altogether could be a misstep. Many buyers, especially those with young children, still want the option of a bath.

If you’re renovating, consider keeping at least one tub in your home to appeal to a wider range of buyers. Having at least one bathtub is still important for resale value. Many families consider a tub a must-have feature.

3. A Grungy, Worn-Out Bathtub

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On the flip side, a stained, chipped, or otherwise unappealing bathtub can also be a major turnoff. If your tub has seen better days, it may be time for an upgrade.

A dingy, worn-out tub immediately makes the whole bathroom feel dated and unclean. Replacing an old tub with a fresh, gleaming one is an investment that can really pay off in terms of both aesthetic appeal and home value.

4. Over-the-Top, Taste-Specific Decor

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While it’s great to inject some personality into your bathroom design, going overboard with bold, taste-specific choices can backfire when it comes time to sell. Buyers want to be able to envision themselves in the space.

Keep things relatively neutral in the bathroom. The goal is for the space to feel fresh, clean, and inviting – not like walking into someone else’s highly personalized oasis. Opt for classic, crowd-pleasing finishes and save the wilder style choices for less permanent elements like towels and accessories.

5. Tired, Dated Tile

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Tile is one of the first things buyers notice in a bathroom, so if yours is chipped, stained, or just plain out of style, it can really drag down the overall look of the space. Updating old tiles is one of the smartest investments you can make in your bathroom.

Fresh, stylish tile makes a huge impact and can instantly elevate the feel of the whole room. Opt for a neutral palette and classic shapes that will stand the test of time. Trendy colors or busy patterns can quickly look dated and may not appeal to a wide range of buyers.

6. A Toilet with a View

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When it comes to toilet placement, discretion is key. No one wants to be on display when nature calls, so a toilet that’s visible from outside the bathroom is a definite no-no.

For the sake of privacy, toilets should be tucked away and not be the first thing you see when you walk in the door. If your throne is front and center, consider a layout change to give it a more discreet location.

7. Outdated Fixtures

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Swapping out old, outdated bathroom fixtures for sleek, modern ones is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to give the space a high-end look. Dated faucets, light fixtures, and hardware can cheapen the overall effect.

Fixtures are like the jewelry of the bathroom. Updating them can make a huge impact on the overall aesthetic. Timeless, high-quality finishes like polished nickel or chrome are recommended, as they will look fresh for years to come.

8. Insufficient Storage

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A lack of storage is a common complaint among homebuyers, and nowhere is this more problematic than in the bathroom. If your space is short on places to stash toiletries and linens, it can feel cluttered and inefficient.

Ample storage is essential in a bathroom. If you’re lacking in built-in storage, look for creative ways to maximize what you have. Adding shelves, hooks, or a sleek medicine cabinet can help keep clutter at bay.

A well-organized bathroom is more appealing to potential buyers.

9. Poor Lighting

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Dim, unflattering lighting can make even the most luxurious bathroom feel drab and uninviting. On the other hand, a well-lit space feels open, airy, and welcoming.

Lighting is a crucial element in a bathroom. The goal is to create a mix of ambient and task lighting for a warm, inviting glow. Incorporating a variety of light sources, including overhead fixtures, sconces, and even natural light, if possible, can help achieve this effect.

Dimmers are also key for creating a spa-like ambiance. Good lighting can showcase a bathroom’s best features and make the space feel more luxurious.

10. Signs of Mold or Mildew

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Nothing turns off buyers faster than visible mold or mildew in the bathroom. Not only is it unsightly, but it can also be a sign of larger moisture issues that could spell big trouble down the road.

Any signs of mold or mildew can really devalue a home, as it may indicate even more problems that you can’t see. To keep your bathroom fresh and fungus-free, be sure to run the exhaust fan during showers, keep surfaces dry, and address any leaks promptly.

A proactive approach to moisture control can help prevent mold issues and maintain a healthy, attractive bathroom.

11. Lack of Ventilation

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A bathroom without adequate ventilation is a major red flag for buyers. Not only can it lead to mold and mildew issues, but it can also make the space feel stuffy and unpleasant.

Proper ventilation is a must in any bathroom. If your bathroom doesn’t have a working exhaust fan, installing one should be a top priority. Good ventilation helps maintain a fresh, comfortable atmosphere and prevents moisture-related damage.

12. Leaky Faucets or Toilets

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Dripping faucets or running toilets are more than just annoying – they can also waste water and lead to costly damage over time.Leaky fixtures are a major turnoff for buyers.

They suggest that the home hasn’t been well-maintained and that there could be other hidden issues. Before putting your home on the market, be sure to fix any drips or leaks, no matter how minor they may seem.

13. Grimy Grout

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Dirty, stained grout can make even the most beautiful tile look dingy and unappealing. If your grout is looking a little worse for wear, a deep clean or even a fresh coat of grout paint can work wonders.

Grout is one of those small details that can make a big difference in the overall look of a bathroom. Keeping it clean and fresh can go a long way in making the space feel well-maintained. Regular scrubbing and sealing can help keep grout looking its best.

14. Poorly Functioning Shower

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A weak, trickling showerhead or a temperamental temperature control can quickly put a damper on a buyer’s enthusiasm for your bathroom. After all, the shower is often the centerpiece of the space.

Low water pressure or hard-to-regulate temperature can be a major turnoff. Investing in a high-quality showerhead and valve can help ensure a top-notch shower experience.

A luxurious, well-functioning shower can be a big selling point for potential buyers.

15. Lack of Accessibility Features

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With an aging population, accessibility is becoming an increasingly important consideration for homebuyers. A bathroom that lacks features like grab bars, a curbless shower, or a comfort-height toilet may be seen as a drawback.

Even if a buyer doesn’t need accessibility features now, they may be thinking ahead to the future. A bathroom that’s already equipped with these elements can be a big selling point.

If you’re renovating, consider incorporating some age-in-place design principles to make your bathroom more appealing to a wider range of buyers. A universally accessible bathroom adds value and functionality for all.

16. Carpeted Flooring

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While carpet might work in other areas of the home, it’s a no-go in the bathroom. Carpeted floors in a bathroom can be a turnoff for buyers due to moisture concerns, which can lead to mold, mildew, and an overall unhygienic feel.

This was a trend of the past, but unfortunately, there are still some homes out there with carpet in the bathroom.

Replacing carpet with moisture-resistant options, like tile or vinyl, can make a big difference in buyer perception.

Disclaimer: While we always try and use real photos, the above image was made with AI image software.

17. Outdated or Missing Mirrors

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Mirrors are not just functional in a bathroom; they’re also a key design element. Outdated mirrors, such as those with tarnished edges or outdated framing, can make the entire space feel old-fashioned.

Also, missing or insufficient mirror space can impact functionality. Upgrading to a sleek, modern mirror that fits the space can help create a fresh, updated look.

By avoiding these common bathroom pitfalls and investing in smart, thoughtful upgrades, you can help ensure your space is a selling point rather than a stumbling block.

A beautiful, functional bathroom can be a major asset when it comes time to put your home on the market.

Source:

  1. National Association of Realtors
davin
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.