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Does Converting a Shower-to-Tub Hurt a Home’s Resale Value?

May 16th, 2023

2 min read

By Shugarman's Bath

A traditional shower with a bathtub and a shower niche for storage
Does Converting a Shower-to-Tub Hurt a Home’s Resale Value?
4:20

Updated: February 11, 2026

Will a Shower-to-Tub Conversion Help or Hurt Your Home’s Value?

If your home in San Diego or Orange County doesn’t have a bathtub in any of the bathrooms, you may wonder if adding one will hurt the resale value. Whether you plan to sell now or in the future, it’s essential to factor in what can affect your bottom line and profit margin. A shower-to-tub conversion can impact your home’s value in several ways.

In most cases, the effects of swapping your shower for a tub are positive. We’ll explore how this remodeling project can improve resale value and discuss any potential downsides to this choice.


How Many Bathtubs Do Buyers Expect In a Home?

When buyers begin viewing your home, they’ll generally expect to find at least one bathtub. Most want to see it in the master suite, where there will be some combination of a shower and bathtub.

In addition, having a bathtub on the main level of the home is another great incentive for home buyers, as it increases accessibility. For those with small children and even pets, having a bathtub is essential for bath time. If your home doesn’t feature at least one, you could miss out on the sale.

Most home buyers are looking for turnkey properties where they can move in without needing to finance any remodeling projects, including a shower-to-tub conversion. So, if you don’t currently have a bathtub, you may want to take the time to consider adding one now.


Does Having a Bathtub Improve Your Property Listing?

An interesting fact about property listings is that bathrooms with just a shower stall and no bathtub are listed as three-quarter baths. When you have both, they’re listed as full baths. The difference can significantly impact how well your home listing draws attention from potential home buyers.

Your listing is your first opportunity to make an excellent impression on buyers. From your photos to the details about your home, this is your time to make your San Diego or Orange County property shine. Having a bathtub can increase the attention and offers you receive.


What Are the Benefits of a Shower-To-Tub Conversion?

Beyond increasing your San Diego or Orange County home’s resale value, you’ll gain several excellent benefits from converting a shower to a bathtub. They can make bathing easier when showering is difficult

If you enjoy a long, luxurious soak in a tub, investing in this tub and shower area remodel option is a great idea. Having all the options you want for your space will allow you to enjoy it even more.

Bathtubs also offer many therapeutic qualities. When your muscles are tired and aching, a relaxing bath can help soothe them better than a shower.


What Are the Drawbacks of a Shower-To-Bath Conversion?

While adding a bathtub can benefit your home, there are some downsides. They use more water per use than a shower. In addition, they are less energy-efficient due to needing to be filled with hot water. Showers only need to reach their target temperature.

Tubs take up more space than shower stalls. On average, one will require 13 square feet, while a shower stall will require around 9 square feet. Because of this, versatility lies with showers. Tubs have many more limitations on where they can be placed and what size room they can accommodate.

For example, if you have a small bathroom, you may be unable to install a bathtub. Corner tubs are an option for some smaller spaces; however, your new fixture may overwhelm the area, making it seem cluttered and cramped.

A traditional-style tub poses a risk for falls. Walk-in showers, however, can be modified to be much safer for everyone, with a non-slip base, safety accessories, and a built-in bench.


Ready to Increase Your Home’s Value with a Shower-to-Tub Conversion?

Whether you’re interested in increasing your home’s resale value or your own comfort, turn to Shugarman’s Bath for an exceptional shower-to-tub conversion. We use only premium materials for all our wet area remodels to guarantee the highest-quality results.

You’ll enjoy a versatile, personalized installation that meets your needs and specifications. We’ll even have your project completed within one to two days!

Contact Shugarman’s Bath today to schedule a free consultation.

Shugarman's Bath

Shugarman’s Bath is a family-owned and operated remodeler serving San Diego and Orange County homeowners with high-quality bathtub and shower remodeling. With over 4,000+ projects completed, our team specializes specifically in bathtub and shower remodels. Every project is completed from down to the studs and backed by a lifetime warranty.