Full Bath in Basement?

Question

I am purchasing an older house with a full (but very outdated!) bath in basement. We will be renovating the basement (new drywall/floorplan and carpeting, etc) but I would like to renovate the existing full bath to be a 3/4 bath to maximize space for use as living space. In other words, the existing full bath is really quite large, I would like to "steal" space from it for the basement living area while converting it to a shower/toilet/sink bathroom. I assume this is fairly easy conversion, given all the plumbing is in place.

My question is, does this reduce the home's value because i'll be switching from a full bath to 3/4 bath....or should I just suck it up, keep it as a full bath ?

Answer 1

There is only a full bath or 1/2 bath, no 3/4. Shower or tub or tub/shower; either way they all make a full bathroom.

A homes market value is/must be based on sales of last 3 homes in your neighborhood when appraised.

Having an extra full bath in the basement is always a great selling feature!

A shower requires a 2 inch drain with a 2 " p-trap under the floor. A tub requires a 1-1/2 p-trap.

Answer 2

The increase in value in doing over the basement will far exceed the minimum value loss you'd have in going from full to 3/4.  I'd definitely add the space to the main area of the basement, as it's a definite improvement and will greatly add to the overall value of the home.

FYI - I am a real estate agent in my state.

Answer 3

Your value will actually increase because of the remodel. This sounds like a fun project!

Answer 4

You will do way better with with a modernized 3/4 bath. go for it.