Bathrooms
When your house is on the market, your bathrooms should look like no one has used them. If yours are looking less than new, it’s time to look at some reasonably priced upgrades. In this section, we share what buyers are looking for in bathrooms and how you might whip yours into shape.
When it comes to selling a home, it’s important to make sure every room looks its best. While many homeowners focus on updating the kitchen or living room, it’s easy to overlook the importance of a styled bathroom. However, a well-designed bathroom can actually have a big impact on a home’s resale value and appeal to potential buyers.
Why Should You Bother
Increase in value
According to a study by Zillow, homes with stylish bathrooms sell for 2.5% more than homes with outdated bathrooms. That might not sound like a huge difference, but on a $800,000 home, that translates to a $20,000 increase in sale price. Additionally, homes with high-end bathrooms also tend to sell faster than homes with less impressive bathrooms.
Of Home Buyers
According to a survey by the National Association of Home Builders, 75% of homebuyers consider the bathroom to be one of the most important rooms in a home.
Of Home Buyers
Of Home Buyers
So what makes a bathroom “stylish”? It can vary depending on the home and the buyer’s preferences, but there are a few key elements that tend to appeal to a wide range of people. Here are a few design tips to keep in mind:
Keep it neutral: While bright or bold colors can be fun in other parts of the house, a bathroom should feel calm and relaxing. Stick with neutral colors like white, beige, or gray, and add pops of color with towels or accessories.
Add some greenery: Plants are an easy way to add some life to a bathroom and make it feel more inviting. Plus, they help purify the air and reduce humidity.
Upgrade the lighting: A well-lit bathroom can make all the difference in how it looks and feels. Consider swapping out old fixtures for something more modern and energy-efficient.
Invest in quality materials: A bathroom sees a lot of wear and tear, so it’s important to use durable, high-quality materials. Choose materials that are easy to clean and resistant to moisture, like ceramic tile or quartz countertops.
Pay attention to storage: Clutter can make a bathroom feel cramped and uninviting. Make sure there’s plenty of storage space for towels, toiletries, and other essentials.
By following these design tips, you can create a bathroom that appeals to a wide range of buyers and adds value to your home. Whether you’re planning to sell soon or just want to enjoy your home while you’re still living in it, a stylish bathroom is a smart investment.
- Put the rubbish bin under the vanity to clear floor space to make the bathroom appear as big as possible. Always empty bathroom rubbish bins before showings.
- A new shower curtain is a great investment – very little money for a big impact.
- Things like toilet cleaners, plungers, and hampers add clutter; put them away while you’re selling your house.
- Keep all reading material out of sight in the bathroom.
- Place personal items (such as hairdryers, makeup kits, and hairbrushes) in cupboards or drawers.
- Hang matching new towels; go for the best-looking towels you can. Like shower curtains, they add a nice impact.
- Remove everything from the countertop, except pretty soap sets, candles or fresh flowers.
- Check the taps for leaks, drips or disrepair. Repair or buy new taps if they are leaky or worn out.
- New silicone beading can do wonders for your shower, tub and sink area…especially if the caulking is stained or cracking.
- Shine your faucets and knobs and use cleaner to prevent water spots.
- Keep your shower and tub spotless. Buyers will often look behind the curtain. Keep shampoos and soaps to a minimum.
Scrub tiles and bleach – or replace – the grout so it all sparkles. - Replace or paint the vanity if it shows excessive wear and tear.
- Replacing knobs can give an updated look to an older vanity.
Quick
Wins
🧼Clean Like a Pro
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Scrub everything – Showers, tiles, glass screens, basins, grout, mirrors, and behind the toilet.
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Remove personal items – Hide toothbrushes, razors, soaps, and medications.
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Fix mould or water stains – Buyers notice — use mould remover and touch up with waterproof paint if needed.
🎨Modern Touches
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Replace tapware or fittings – Brushed nickel or matte black taps/towel rails add a modern feel.
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Paint tired walls or vanities – Neutral colours like white, soft grey, or taupe are best.
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Update cabinet handles – Swapping old hardware gives an instant refresh.
💡 Brighten and Lighten
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Replace old light fixtures or bulbs – Use warm white LED lights for a clean, welcoming look.
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Clean mirrors – A spotless mirror reflects more light and makes the space feel bigger.
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Add extra lighting – If it’s a dark bathroom, consider battery-operated vanity lights or LED strips.
🌿Style It Simply
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Add soft, white towels – Rolled or neatly folded, they feel fresh and spa-like.
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Use a neutral bath mat – Clean, fluffy, and dry — no stains or signs of wear.
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Style with greenery – A small plant, succulent, or eucalyptus adds colour and calm.
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Display a few spa-like items – Think a wooden tray with soap, a candle, and a rolled towel.
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Keep shower curtain clean and neutral – Or go frameless/glass if upgrading.
Functional Touches Buyers Notice
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Fix dripping taps or running toilets – Small issues send red flags.
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Ensure proper ventilation – Open windows or run exhaust fans before inspections.
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Organise inside drawers and cabinets – Buyers will peek; tidy storage creates the feel of a well-maintained home.
👃 Don’t Forget Scent
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Use subtle, clean scents – Think lemon, eucalyptus, or fresh linen — avoid anything too strong or perfumey.
