Four things a potential buyer doesn't want to see in the bathroom

The bathroom is a crucial space when selling a home, and potential buyers pay a great deal of attention to it. Having an updated bathroom is important, as it creates a good impression and can increase the value of your property. If that’s not the case, and considering that a complete renovation might not be cost-effective for various reasons, there are steps you can (and should) take to improve its overall condition.

It goes without saying that a dirty and untidy bathroom is one of the main reasons a potential buyer might rule out purchasing a property – outdated fixtures are another. Assuming that such issues are dealt with immediately if they exist, here we focus on other aspects that are often overlooked but could be the reason you're not receiving the offers you expected.

Dirty or mouldy tile grout

Before showing your home, check the condition of the tile grout. If it’s dirty, clean it with a specialised product. Then, if necessary, apply new silicone. Finally, refresh the grout by painting it. This is as simple as buying specific whitening pens for grout lines. The difference you'll notice will be remarkable because there's nothing worse than dirty or mouldy grout, which can discourage anyone viewing your home or lead them to draw conclusions such as the bathroom having insufficient ventilation.

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A dark atmosphere

Here, we’re not referring to a lack of natural light or inadequate lighting (always pair spotlights with wall lights and a ceiling fixture to enjoy both ambient and task lighting in the bathroom). Instead, we mean other elements that darken and detract from the bathroom’s appearance, such as a dark-coloured sink countertops, wall coverings, or even towels in dark shades. In small bathrooms, avoid using dark-coloured tiles unless there is plenty of natural light.

Lack of storage space

Having a laundry bin, a trolley for bottles and shampoos, and various boxes for toilet rolls in the bathroom can be off-putting. Generally, in a small bathroom, incorporating custom storage – even something as simple as a recessed niche in the shower, a bespoke vanity unit, or a small cupboard – will make the space feel larger and create a very appealing sense of order.

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Outdated tiling

Even if they’re in good condition, if the tiles in your bathroom are outdated, you should consider replacing them. Old-fashioned tiles are one of the biggest detractors in a bathroom and can be another reason a potential buyer decides to walk away. If possible, replace them entirely with something more modern. However, as replacing tiles can be quite costly, if your budget is limited, focus on updating the tiles around the shower and sink area and consider wallpapering the rest of the wall.

Other alternatives, such as painting the tiles, can also be a good idea. While it may not be your first choice, it’s an effective way to refresh the bathroom’s look and make it more appealing for a potential sale.