We get this question a lot: “Will a swimming pool hurt my home’s value?” For years, rumors have circled the real estate market about swimming pools devaluing homes, and in some cases, that’s true. However, there are plenty of circumstances where a swimming pool will improve or maintain a home’s value without any issues at all. It all depends on how you approach the installation. Let’s take a look at some pros and cons of swimming pools from the perspective of a homeowner trying to sell his house in the future.
When Swimming Pools Boost a Home’s Value
Listed below are some situations where adding a swimming pool could improve your home’s value:
- You live in a high-end neighborhood where most other homes have a swimming pool.
- You live in a family neighborhood where buyers would likely be searching for a house with a pool.
- You live in a temperate climate where pools can be used all year round.
- You live in a section of town known for having swimming pools – i.e., near the beach.
- Your home is upgraded enough to merit having a pool in the back yard.
- You are financially capable and emotionally driven to maintain your pool, now and in the future.
When Swimming Pools Hurt a Home’s Value
Every home deserves to have a swimming pool, but the fact is that pools aren’t made for every situation. Here are some times when installing a pool may be a bad investment:
- You live in a mid-range to low-end neighborhood where swimming pools are not common.
- You live in an area filled mostly with rental property. Most landlords do not want to invest in a home with a pool because of the maintenance and liability risks.
- You live in a cold climate where swimming pools are not practical most of the year.
- Your home is old, run-down, poorly maintained, or in disrepair. This shows potential buyers that your pool is likely maintained either.
- You do not have the funds to properly keep up with your pool maintenance.
Should You Invest in a Swimming Pool for Your Home?
Consider the scenarios above to determine what your current situation is. Will your home benefit from having a pool, or will this investment make your home harder to sell to future buyers. If you do not plan on selling your home in the near future, you may ignore the value a pool adds or takes away from your property. Instead, focus on the joy you could get out of the pool, assuming you can keep up with the maintenance. Assess your situation entirely to decide if a swimming pool is right for you.
