Homeowners contemplating a backyard pool often assume it will add instant value to their property. After all, who wouldn’t want a personal oasis just steps from the back door? While a pool can be a desirable feature, its impact on a home’s value is far from straightforward.
Location Dictates Desirability
A pool’s value depends largely on the climate and neighborhood expectations. In warm regions where pools are common, buyers may see one as essential. A home without a pool in these areas could actually struggle to compete. Conversely, in cooler climates with shorter swimming seasons, a pool may be viewed as an expensive and underused feature, potentially deterring buyers.
Maintenance Costs Weigh Heavily
A pool’s appeal comes with ongoing responsibilities. Prospective buyers may hesitate at the thought of maintenance, repairs, and increased insurance costs. Even a well-maintained pool requires consistent upkeep, adding both financial and time commitments. A neglected pool, on the other hand, can quickly become a liability rather than an asset.
The Buyer Pool Shrinks
While some buyers dream of backyard swims and summer barbecues, others see a pool as a safety hazard, especially families with young children. Additionally, those who don’t swim or travel frequently may view it as an unnecessary expense. This means a home with a pool may attract a narrower group of buyers, potentially making it harder to sell.
Appraisers Take a Cautious Approach
When it comes to determining value, appraisers often assign a modest premium to a pool, if any. Pools typically do not add dollar-for-dollar returns on their installation costs. Instead, they enhance marketability—making a home stand out in competitive areas. However, an outdated or poorly maintained pool can have the opposite effect, dragging down the home’s appeal.
Bottom Line: Lifestyle Over Investment
Adding a pool should be a decision based on lifestyle rather than resale value. If it will bring years of enjoyment, the personal benefits may outweigh financial considerations. However, for those installing a pool purely for investment purposes, expectations should be tempered. Market conditions, maintenance, and buyer preferences will ultimately determine whether a backyard pool is a selling point or a sticking point.