Do bathrooms sell houses? Here’s what really matters to buyers

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You’ve probably heard the old real estate saying: “Kitchens and bathrooms sell houses.” It’s one of those bits of wisdom that gets tossed around at open homes and stuck in agents’ pitch decks.

And while it might sound like a cliché, there’s truth in it, especially when it comes to the bathroom.  

Most sellers focus on the big, obvious upgrades: a fresh coat of paint, a tidy garden, maybe a new kitchen if the budget allows.

But here’s what many miss, buyers might love your light-filled living room, but if your bathroom feels tired, grimy or like it’s harbouring secrets behind the tiles, it can be an instant turn-off. 

Why? Because bathrooms are about more than functionality. They’re where buyers picture themselves starting and ending their day.

They’re intimate spaces that signal how well a home has been cared for. And when they’re done badly, or not done at all, they raise red flags fast. 

So, do bathrooms really sell houses? Or are they just one more thing to clean before the open home?

Let’s unpack the facts, bust a few myths, and show you where a smart bathroom update can help you sell faster and for more. 

Why bathrooms matter in a sale 

Bathrooms might not be the first room buyers see. But they're one of the most memorable. 

A great bathroom won't sell your house on its own, but a bad one can quickly stop a buyer in their tracks.

That’s because bathrooms represent more than function, they signal cleanliness, upkeep, and whether a home is truly move-in ready. 

Here’s what buyers are thinking when they step into the bathroom during an inspection: 

• “How much would I need to spend to fix this?” 

• “Would I feel comfortable using this space every day?” 

• “If this is tired, what else in the house might need work?” 

It’s not about luxury. It’s about hygiene, usability, and peace of mind. 

What buyers want in a bathroom 

Every buyer is different, but most are drawn to similar qualities in a bathroom. These are the features that consistently rate highly: 

• A clean, fresh appearance 

• Natural light and ventilation 

• Practical layout with usable storage 

• Modern, working fixtures and fittings 

• Neutral finishes that won’t date quickly 

What turns buyers off? Mould, mildew, cracked tiles, poor lighting, and anything that feels like a reno waiting to happen. 

The cost of a bad bathroom 

A bathroom in poor condition can quietly undermine everything else your home offers.

It’s one of the spaces that buyers associate most strongly with comfort and liveability, so if it looks neglected or outdated, it can leave them questioning how well the rest of the home has been maintained. 

It’s also where doubts start to creep in: 

• Will I need to spend thousands more after buying? 

• Is this home move-in ready or not? 

• What other issues might be hiding under the surface? 

And since many buyers form an opinion of a property within the first 30 seconds, a bathroom that feels like a problem rather than a feature can stick in their memory, long after they've left the inspection. 

You might also be interested in: How to access equity to renovate your home 

Can a bathroom reno boost your sale price? 

The short answer is yes, if you keep it strategic. 

Not every bathroom needs full renovation. In fact, the most successful updates are often the simplest ones. It’s all about striking a balance between what buyers expect, what the market supports, and how much you spend to get there. 

Here’s a breakdown of typical bathroom renovation ranges: 

Bathroom renovation costs and considerations 

 Source: Housing Industry Association (HIA) 

While returns vary, a well-maintained or freshly updated bathroom can help your home sell faster, attract stronger offers, and reduce buyer negotiation around perceived flaws. 

You might also be interested in: How to finance your home renovation 

Smart bathroom updates that add value 

A full gut renovation isn’t always necessary. These lower-cost updates can give your bathroom an instant lift: 

• Regrout or reseal existing tiles for a clean, fresh look 

• Swap out tapware with contemporary finishes like matte black or brushed nickel 

• Replace a tired vanity with a modern flatpack model, bonus points for under-sink storage 

• Upgrade lighting to make the space feel brighter and more inviting 

• Install a new mirror with backlit options that can add both light and function 

• Paint walls in a soft, neutral tone to maximise space and appeal 

Most of these upgrades cost less than $1,000 each but together, they can make your bathroom feel brand new. 

How to avoid overcapitalising 

One of the biggest risks with any renovation is spending more than your market will reward.

Before you start ordering tiles or tearing up floors, take a step back and consider: 

1. What buyers expect in your area 

Are you selling to first-home buyers, investors or upsizers? In an entry-level suburb, a clean and functional bathroom may be enough. In more competitive markets, buyers may expect modern finishes and thoughtful details. 

Pro tip: Get a free Aussie Property Report to see how your home compares with others in your area. 

2. How much equity you have 

If you’re planning to refinance to fund the reno, our Live Equity Tracker on the Aussie App can show you how much equity you might be able to unlock and what your repayments could look like. 

3. Whether it’s the right time If you're planning to sell within 6-12 months, stick with cosmetic refreshes that boost appeal without major cost. Holding the home longer? A more extensive reno might make sense. 

You might also be interested in: Tips for upgrading or renovating your home in 2025 

Common bathroom renovation mistakes 

It’s easy to go overboard or overlook the things that really matter. Here’s what to avoid: 

• Overpersonalising the space with bold colours or niche styles 

• Skipping ventilation, which can lead to mould or damp issues 

• Going DIY on plumbing or waterproofing without experience 

• Using low-quality materials in a high-use space 

• Ignoring lighting and storage, both of which buyers actively look for 

Keep it simple, practical, and in line with the rest of the home’s style and price point. 

Why functionality matters just as much as style 

While a beautiful bathroom can impress, it’s the everyday functionality that makes it valuable. Buyers want spaces that work for real life. That means: 

• Enough room to move around 

• Good natural or artificial lighting 

• Adequate storage 

• Water efficiency 

• Durable materials 

If you can deliver a space that’s both beautiful and functional, you’re ahead of the game. 

Do bathrooms really sell houses? 

Not on their own, but they absolutely influence outcomes. 

A tired bathroom can slow your sale or spark negotiation. A well-presented bathroom, even without the bells and whistles, can lift your entire home’s appeal. 

Smart updates can make your bathroom a selling point without draining your wallet.

It’s not about going luxe, it’s about showing buyers the home is ready to move in. 

What’s next? 

Thinking of renovating before you sell? Or just want to understand what your home’s worth? 

• Get a free Aussie Property Report to see what similar homes are selling for 

• Track your equity and borrowing power with our smart tools 

• Talk to an Aussie Broker for a clearer picture of what’s possible 

It’s obligation-free and could give you the clarity you need to take the next step with confidence.

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