If this is the only bathroom, then....no to the shower. A tub shower combination gives people the option. I am not sure how replacing a tub and adding a stall AND a storage cupboard will make the bathroom appear more spacious. It will make it feel more closed in, I think. This, of course, is theoretical. Photos? Plans? Think about other ways to gain storage. A new vanity? A medicine cabinet? Recessed storage above the toilet? Just a few suggestions....

By the way, the only other bathroom does have a tub, but is located in the finished basement.

From my experience buying and selling, tubs are important only to families with children, and, to them, a tub is VERY important. If your only tub would be in the basement, I’d think twice about taking out your tub. Is it already a tub/shower combinaton?

Baroness0085,

Yes, the basement bathroom is already a tub/shower combination.

As long as you have a tub somewhere I think you are okay. I am not a bath taking person and have no kids but a tub can still be handy from time to time. For example after some surgeries it was easier to put some water in bath to avoid water on surgical sites. Would not be a dealbreaker for me not to have one though. It seems pretty normal these days to have bathrooms - including ensuites - with walk in showers only. In new house two of our baths are shower only (we left tub in a secondary bath). When we finish basement it will be another shower only.

it depends on your house.

if the layout is conducive to having young children live there (master and bedrooms on same floor) AND you are planning to sell your house in under 5 years AND you need to realize every blessed penny at time of sale, then keep a tub where the bedrooms are.

if any of these questions is a no, then go ahead and do your shower. people with small children won't buy at top $ if the master is on one floor and the little children's rooms are on another and the bathroom is viewed as dated.

people with older (shower aged) children would probably prefer a shower anyway.

Our realtor told us when adding a master bath and wishing to eliminate adding a free standing tub for lots of storage and a large shower that most buyers only want a tub for kids now and prefer a master with a luxurious large shower instead of soaking tub plus a small walkin shower. So as long a there is an accessible tub for future buyers with kids you are likely making a selling point not distraction.

Are there bedrooms in the basement near the tub or only on the main floor? I think if the tub is where the bedrooms are, you're good to go. If not, it's a trade-off, but maybe still OK. As others have stated, many people would consider a nice walk-in shower an upgrade.

Do what works for you unless you plan to sell in the immediate future. Trying to second guess what a potential buy wants is impossible. In your case, you are just as likely to find someone who prefers a nice shower and more storage to a mediocre bath/shower combo.

I am remodeling currently and getting rid of the tub/shower combo in the master bath and guest bath only has a shower so I will have no bath tubs - and don't regret it. I would imagine the universe of adults wanting a nice shower exceeds those who want a bath - and it doesn't sound as if your current bath tub would be luxurious anyway.

The description of your layout is confusing - are the bedrooms on the main floor and a basement below or is there an additional floor above the main floor with bedrooms.

Ultimately you must do whatever you think is best for you yourself while you live in this house; however, I think these are the "safe boundaries":

- Yes, you need to have one tub somewhere in the house.

- If you do away with the master bath tub, you should make the shower large and luxurious ... no one will be impressed with a master bath that has no tub and only a minimal-sized shower. I suppose I'm questioning whether you should include the storage next to the shower.

- Since space is limited, consider a white or light color scheme.

- Yes, lack of a tub will turn off some buyers. Me, for example. No tub in the master would be a complete no-go for me and my husband; however, you'll find just as many people who feel the opposite.

If it is the only bath in the house or on the main floor, I would keep a tub/shower. If you have other bathtubs in the house then it shouldn't be such a big issue. However if you have no other tubs, in the house or the first floor would be specifically for an older couple, I think you should consult with a realtor, as you may find it may effect the resale value of your home? Good luck!

I only have a large walk in shower. I miss the tub when it comes time to clean the crisper drawers from the refrigerator - they won't fit in my kitchen sink.