Why Does Adding a Second Bathroom Increase Resale Value?

kwellsgroup
Dec 24, 2025
2 min read

A School Street Transformation Story

Closing the sale of our School Street properties marked the end of a meaningful chapter for everyone involved.

We were honored to earn the trust of the original sellers, who valued privacy and chose an off-market sale. We were equally grateful for the confidence of the investor who later trusted us again to resell the homes after completing thoughtful, high-quality remodels. Watching these houses come back to life was incredibly rewarding.

But beyond the successful transactions, one lesson stood out clearly—the market’s perception of 1 bathroom vs. 2 bathrooms can make or break a sale.

Is One Bathroom a Deal Breaker for Buyers?

In today’s market, the answer is often yes, especially for families.

Both homes originally featured a 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom layout. While that configuration may seem functional on paper, real-world buyer feedback tells a different story:

Parents sharing a single bathroom with children is a daily logistical challenge
Lack of privacy is a major concern
Hosting guests becomes awkward
Future resale appeal is significantly reduced

Across multiple open houses, buyers repeatedly expressed the same sentiment: One bathroom simply isn’t enough anymore—even in entry-level homes.

Why Is an Ensuite Master Bathroom Now Expected?

Modern buyers view an ensuite primary bathroom as a near-mandatory feature, not a luxury.

The investors recognized this early and made a strategic design decision:

Convert the existing bathroom into a primary ensuite
Add a second bathroom
Slightly reduce the size of one bedroom to make it work

This redesign aligned perfectly with buyer priorities.

What Buyers Preferred Most?

After hosting open houses and hearing feedback firsthand, the conclusion was unanimous:

Two bathrooms and a slightly smaller bedroom are far more desirable than three full-size bedrooms and one bathroom.

This wasn’t just a preference—it directly influenced buyer confidence, urgency, and perceived value.

The ROI of Adding a Second Bathroom

Here’s where the numbers really tell the story:

Approximate construction cost: $15,000
Estimated increase in resale value: Up to $50,000

That single design choice delivered a powerful return on investment while making the homes easier to sell and more appealing to a broader pool of buyers.

Key Takeaway for Homeowners and Investors

If you’re considering remodeling before selling—or evaluating a potential flip—bathroom count matters more than bedroom size.

Strategic layout changes that align with buyer expectations can:

Increase marketability
Shorten time on market
Deliver significant resale gains

Sometimes, the smartest upgrades aren’t the flashiest—they’re the most functional.

Thinking About Selling or Remodeling?

Whether you’re managing a trust property, selling privately, or considering an investment remodel, understanding buyer psychology and market perception can make all the difference.

If you’re unsure where to invest your renovation dollars, our team is here to help. With our expertise, we maximize value while helping you avoid costly missteps—ensuring every decision is guided by real market knowledge.