Does a Swimming Pool Boost Your Home’s Value?
Ah, the dream of a backyard pool—lazy summer days, pool parties, and a personal oasis just steps from your back door. Sounds amazing, right? But when it comes to selling your home, does having a pool actually add value, or does it send buyers running for their calculators to figure out maintenance costs?
Let’s dive in (pun totally intended) and see whether a pool is a jackpot or just a giant, water-filled money pit!
The Good: When a Pool Can Add Value
🏡 The Right Buyer Will Pay More
For some buyers, a pool is a must-have. They’ve always wanted one, and they’re willing to pay extra for a home that already has it. If your property is in an area where pools are common (and expected), a well-maintained pool can boost your home’s appeal and value.
☀️ A Backyard Resort is a Vibe
A beautiful, well-landscaped pool area can make your home look more high-end. If you’ve got a sleek in-ground pool, stylish patio furniture, and some lush greenery, it could add a little wow factor that gets buyers excited.
🎉 Entertainment Factor
Pools make a house the place to be in the summer. If your buyers have kids or love entertaining, a pool can be a major selling feature.
The Not-So-Great: When a Pool Might Hurt Your Sale
💸 Maintenance Costs Can Scare Buyers Away
Not everyone wants the extra work (or the extra cost) of pool maintenance. The chemicals, cleaning, repairs, and opening/closing the pool each season can add up. Buyers who’ve never owned a pool might see it as one more thing to worry about.
👶 Families with Young Kids Might See It as a Hazard
While some families love pools, others worry about safety—especially with little ones around. If a buyer sees the pool as a risk, it could be a dealbreaker.
🌨️ Canada’s Not Exactly Pool Season 24/7
Let’s be real—our swimming season is short. In places like Kitchener-Waterloo, a pool is usable for maybe four to five months a year. Some buyers won’t see the value in something they can only use for part of the year.
So… Does a Pool Increase Home Value?
🔹 It depends! If your home is in a neighbourhood where pools are common and expected, it can help. If your pool is well-maintained, landscaped beautifully, and has safety features, it might attract the right buyer.
🔹 But it won’t always get you a higher price. A pool is more about lifestyle appeal than actual home value. Some buyers will see it as a bonus, while others will see it as an expensive hassle.
🔹 Want to know how a pool affects your home’s value? The best way to find out is to chat with a real estate expert (hi, that’s me!) who knows the local market.
Thinking of Selling? Let’s Talk!
If you’ve got a pool and you’re wondering how it’ll impact your home sale, let’s chat! I’ll help you figure out the best way to position your home to attract the right buyers—and get the best possible price.