Do you have grand-kids, or are you expecting any near your guest bedrooms? If so, do consider having tubs (at least a small 5 foot inexpensive one) for baths. You won't regret that, especially for resale. As for your Master Bath, ask a realtor friend and they will likely tell you it's 'best' for re-sale for a 5-piece Master too, but if you'd much rather have the extra-large shower than a smaller shower and tub, then go for the larger shower and forget the tub. We have an oversized shower (dual heads, etc) and absolutely love it. We have a big jacuzzi tub too and it's nice but doesn't get a whole lot of use. Our overall bathroom is quite large, but if I were limited on space, the tub would be the first to go or at least downsize. As you age, you will probably find a better use for a walk-in shower with things you can add in your later remodel (hand-held rails, bench, etc) than a tub that is hard to step into.

We're doing the same thing and I haven't decided yet either. My contractor tends to like to install the elbow on the side about 3 to 4 ft above the floor. Since I see the hand held shower as something not only for the shower but also as a cleaning tool, I like to make sure the elbow is low enough so the spray end will reach those places that I will want to clean (like my self if I'm washing my hair while soaking in the tub or maybe even behind the toilet). In my case on this bathroom, my tub is short, it is 48X32 so I don't have too far to go but still thinking. Thanks for posting.

I'm curious as well..we want jacuzzi or whirlpool tub in and want to place shower beside it...but now are curious if we can because of any required clearances...is there info anywhere that discusses the basic area needed in a bath remodel to allow for a typical install, whether it be a corner tub or a regular tub? This would in turn tell us about the tub deck we should allow. Thanks...and thanks for this thread!

Pressure balance is what you want I can’t see a thermostat being good in a guest shower and if you kids are too young to set the water temp they pobably should not be in there alone.You could get these I use them in my guest bath for my grand kids at the sink for washing hands and brushing teeth. The lights tell them when the temp. is right that is when it is green I haven’t need the tub and shower yet.