This regularly-scheduled sponsored Q&A column is written by Adam Gallegos of Arlington-based real estate firm Arbour Realty, voted one of Arlington Magazine’s Best Realtors of 2013 & 2014. Please submit your questions via email.
Q. We own a 1,000 sq. ft., 2 bedroom, 1 bath townhouse in 22204. We’re planning to remodel the small bathroom later this year and as part of the remodel we’ll need to remove or replace the bathtub because of rust and a poorly done refinish (by the previous owner). We are not bathers — at all — and I would like to have a nice walk-in shower rather than a bathtub. Please correct me if I’m mistaken but I suspect that the tub/shower debate is purely subjective and either choice will attract and/or deter certain buyers. My primary concern is how will removing the tub impact property value?
A. I remember first considering this question when the Wooster & Mercer Lofts were selling million dollar condos without tubs. To be accurate, some of them have tubs, but most do not. Having brought dozens of home buyers to see these homes, I witnessed a decent sample size of reactions.
As you mentioned, it is purely subjective. The demographic that Wooster & Mercer primarily appealed to, loved the idea of a large walk-in shower over the “wasted space” of a tub. I’ve heard many stories of the fancy whirlpool tubs that clients had in previous homes, which were never used. These people tend to have a particular distaste for tubs, especially large ones that take up valuable space.
On the other hand, when I’m working with families who have children, a tub in at least one of the bathrooms is often on their must-have list. And then of course there are people who just prefer to take baths.
My advice is to consider who is likely to make up the target market for your home when it comes time to sell. If you expect they are going to be people much like yourselves, then go for it. Get rid of the tub. From what you have told me, I think it will end up adding value to your home.
The views and opinions expressed in the column are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of ARLnow.com.
Recent Stories
An explosives detection K-9 celebrated his retirement at Reagan National Airport today. Messi, an 8-year-old yellow lab, was feted this morning in the historic Terminal 1 lobby with a surprise…
Walk to Lee Heights shops from 1930s Tudor on beautiful terraced lot
Arlington’s response team for people in mental health and substance use crises is on track for a substantial buildout. An additional $478,286 in federal funds would allow Arlington to hire…
If you’ve gotten used to the current design of the ARLnow website over the past 5+ years, get ready for an adjustment. A new version of the site will be…
Unlike our competitors, Well-Paid Maids doesn’t clean your home with harsh chemicals. Instead, we handpick cleaning products rated “safest” by the Environmental Working Group, the leading rating organization regarding product safety.
The reason is threefold.
First, using safe cleaning products ensures toxic chemicals won’t leak into waterways or harm wildlife if disposed of improperly.
Second, it’s better for you and your family. Fragrant chemicals in surface cleaners can expose you to a similar amount of pollutant particles as a busy city road, New Scientist reported.
Northern Virginia Family Practice (NVFP), known for its comprehensive concierge healthcare, is thrilled to introduce Mark Sullivan, MD as the newest member of its family medicine team.
Dr. Sullivan brings a wealth of experience in family medicine, underpinned by a passion for delivering personalized, patient-centered care. He has a distinguished background in managing various medical conditions, emphasizing preventive care, health education and chronic disease management. Dr. Sullivan is adept at employing the latest medical research and technologies to enhance patient outcomes.
Beyond his medical expertise, Dr. Sullivan is committed to the well-being of his community, demonstrating this through his active engagement in local health initiatives and educational programs. His approach to medicine is holistic, focusing on integrating physical, mental and emotional health and patient education to achieve optimal patient wellness.
Dr. Sullivan is now accepting new patients at their newly established Arlington office at 2445 Army Navy Drive, Arlington, VA, 22206. The office, known for its patient-friendly amenities and state-of-the-art medical facilities, continues to provide the exceptional, personalized care NVFP is known for in its newly upgraded Arlington location.
ACFCU’s Free Homebuying 101 Webinar: Steps to Getting Pre-Approved
Are you ready to jump into homeownership, or have you started considering it but don’t know where to start?
Financial preparation is key when thinking about purchasing your first home and the first step to getting pre-approved. Join ACFCU for
Sweeney Todd
A victim of a gross injustice that robbed him of his wife and child, Sweeney Todd sets about exacting a terrible revenge on society.
