Does removing a bathtub hurt resale value?
Does removing a bathtub hurt resale value?
Removing a bathtub typically has minimal impact on resale value in most Ottawa homes, especially if you're replacing it with a well-designed shower. The key factors are your home's layout, target buyer demographic, and the quality of the replacement.
Market trends strongly favor showers over tubs in today's Ottawa real estate market. Most homebuyers prioritize functionality and low maintenance over soaking tubs, particularly in busy households. A spacious walk-in shower with quality tile work and modern fixtures often appeals more to buyers than an outdated tub they'll never use.
The exception is homes with only one bathroom - removing the only tub in a house can impact families with young children who need bathing options. However, if you have multiple bathrooms and can keep one tub elsewhere in the home, removing a tub for a shower conversion rarely hurts value. In fact, converting a cramped tub-shower combo into a spacious walk-in shower often increases both functionality and perceived value.
Quality of execution matters more than the tub itself. A professionally installed tub-to-shower conversion with proper waterproofing, quality tile work, and modern fixtures typically adds more value than leaving an old, worn tub in place. Ottawa buyers appreciate move-in ready bathrooms with contemporary finishes over dated spaces requiring immediate renovation.
Consider your neighborhood and home style when making this decision. In family-oriented Ottawa suburbs, keeping at least one tub in the home makes sense. In downtown condos or homes targeting professionals, a luxurious shower often provides better return on investment.
For a professional assessment of how a tub-to-shower conversion would impact your specific property's value, request a consultation from Ottawa Bathrooms to discuss your renovation options.
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View all renovation contractors →This response was generated by Bathroom IQ, an AI assistant. While we base our answers on industry standards and local Ottawa/Ontario requirements, please verify all current regulations, codes, and requirements from their respective sources:
- Permit requirements: City of Ottawa Building Services
- Ontario Building Code: ontario.ca
- Plumbing permits: Ontario Building Code
For project-specific guidance, request a free consultation with our team.
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