Worth Installing A Whirlpool Tub For Appraisal Purposes?

[KMP]

We will get our house appraised for the purpose of a home equity loan in a few months and are trying to figure out what upgrades will increase the value of our home. We are told that bathroom remodels are important, and are debating whether to replace our current tub (nothing really wrong with it, just a plain tub) with a whirlpool tub. We plan to replace the fixtures and sink either way, but I'm not sure if we can call the bathroom "remodeled" just based on that. It would cost about $2000 for the tub+installation. Thoughts on whether this is worth the money? In terms of our area, we are living in a suburban neighborhood with houses of comparable size selling at very high prices--but, these are new construction "luxury" homes, and we're living in a split-level built in the 70s.

Thanks in advance for any advice.

 

[Terrel L. Shields]

Almost no "upgrade" that you do will return $1 for $1 you invest. The jetted tub will increase your value zip I predict. Secondly, there is another thread elsewhere that links to an article on the very subject. Importantly, if part of the house is updated and part is not, you have a functional obsolescence issue. You are just putting lipstick on a pig unless you really do "upgrades" and "remodeling" right.

 

[Dublin ohio]

Whirlpool tubs seem to have lost their "fad status" in most of the newer neighborhoods in my area. Large well finished showers and maybe a soaking tub. See the occasional bubble jet tub. Been told by more than one owner that they very seldom use whirlpool tub if they have one. Biggest complaint is that if you use soap when they are circulating. Soap residue builds up on the interior of the circulating system.

 

[CindyR]

only put in a whirlpool tub if you really really want to have a whirlpool tub. it will most likely have no effect on your appraisal.

 

[chad hampton]

only put in a whirlpool tub if you really really want to have a whirlpool tub. it will most likely have no effect on your appraisal.

Exactly. Took the words right out of my mouth.

Honestly, I'm seeing less and less tubs and more large showers, especially in bathroom renovations. I'll be renovating my bathroom in the next 12 months (I hope) and that's what I'll be doing. Buyers like large walk in shower.

 

[Mark K]

Very few new custom homes I've appraised in the past few years had whirlpool tubs.

I don't attribute any additional value in an appraisal for a WP tub. It was a fad a few years back but today they're used by very few people. Most people are spending money on large, custom showers in the Master bath. Probably another fad but 'today' they are valuable. Sometimes they also include a separate tub but rarely a WP.

 

[JTip]

I have never seen a positive return on value for whirlpool tubs in my market.

9 out of 10 times they are either filled with clean/dirty towels or a potpourri scented candle stand in the middle of the tub (I have no idea why......).

 

[glenn walker]

Whirlpool tubs take a lot of water so you will also need to install a double or triple size water heater. They are almost never used and like a previous poster stated many folks use them as laundry hampers or storage.

 

[CindyR]

The ones I see are usually filled with little boats and rubber duckies for when the grandkids stay over.

 

[JTip]

and we're living in a split-level built in the 70s.

What is the top selling price for split levels in your neighborhood and what do they have that you do not?

That is the answer to your question......another question....