You’re picturing it right now. Long summer days, cool water, and your family laughing in the backyard. The idea of a backyard pool is a powerful one, but then the practical side kicks in. You’re wondering, do pools increase home value in and around Columbus, GA?
This question stops a lot of homeowners in their tracks. A pool installation is a huge expense, so you need to know if you’ll see a return on your investment.
Let’s start with why we want swimming pools in the first place. On a scorching July afternoon, nothing beats jumping into your own private water. It completely changes how you experience summer at home, turning your property into a personal resort.
A pool often becomes the social hub for family and friends, perfect for outdoor entertainment. It encourages spending time together and creating memories that last a lifetime. This boost to your quality of life and the “pool lifestyle” is something you can’t really put a price tag on.
This addition transforms your yard into an exceptional outdoor living space. A simple lawn can become a functional play area for kids or a relaxing retreat for adults. This kind of enhancement is a major draw.
Where you live is probably the biggest factor in a pool’s value. In hot climates, a pool is practically a necessity for many buyers. It can make your home much more attractive on the local real estate market.
But if you live in a colder state, the story is different. The swimming season is short. Potential buyers might see a pool as a money pit and a hassle to maintain for just a few months of use.
The character of your neighborhood and surrounding areas also matters. A real estate agent will tell you that if every other home on the block has a beautiful in-ground pool, not having one could put your house at a disadvantage when you’re selling. Market trends show that in some communities, a pool is an expected feature.
There are a few main kinds of pools to think about, and not all are created equal. In-ground pools, particularly those made of concrete, are the most expensive but also the most durable. Vinyl liner and fiberglass in-ground pools are more budget-friendly options.
The pool design itself also matters, as custom pools with features like a stylish pool deck or waterfalls can be more appealing. An aboveground pool is the cheapest to install. However, an aboveground pool rarely adds to your property value, and many buyers consider it a temporary feature they’ll need to remove.
The spending doesn’t stop after the pool addition is complete. You need to budget for ongoing pool maintenance. These maintenance costs include chemicals, professional servicing, and potential repairs to pool equipment over the years.
Your utility bills will also go up. Running a pool pump and heater adds a noticeable amount to your monthly electric bill. Finally, you’ll need to talk to your insurance agent because your insurance premiums increase, as having a pool raises your liability.
Generally, real estate experts suggest a pool might increase your home’s value by 5%–7%. That sounds like a decent boost, but you have to compare it to the installation cost. You probably won’t get a dollar-for-dollar return on your investment, and the pool won’t pay for itself in the sale price.
Think of it this way. If you spend $80,000 on a new in-ground pool for your $500,000 home, it might raise the value to around $535,000. You added a pool, but you didn’t recoup the full cost of the pool addition itself.
A well-maintained pool is also critical. An old, damaged, or poorly maintained pool can actually hurt your property value. A buyer will see the pool and only think about the thousands they’ll need to spend to fix it or fill it in.
A swimming pool can be a polarizing feature for homebuyers. For some, a pool is a dream come true and a top priority. They’ll actively search for homes that have one.
For other buyers, a pool is a major turnoff. Young families might have safety concerns about diving boards and unfenced water access. Others might not want the work and expense that comes with maintaining a pool area.
Having a pool narrows your field of potential buyers, but for the buyers who want one, your home could be more pool attractive. Good pool safety features, like a fence and a secure cover, can help prevent accidents and ease the minds of those with children. A beautiful pool and backyard can absolutely be the thing that makes a buyer choose your house over another, potentially reducing time on the market.
So, we come back to the main question of whether pools increase home value. The most honest answer is that it depends. A pool’s value is tied directly to your climate, your neighborhood, and the condition of the pool itself.
You probably won’t make all your money back when you sell. However, you’re investing in a lifestyle and your family’s enjoyment. If a pool brings you years of fun, that value is much harder to measure.
Think about the personal benefits first and the potential financial return second. This approach will help you make a decision you won’t regret when you’re ready to take the plunge. Ultimately, the best investment is one that enhances your life at home.
Address: 8008 Jenkins Rd, Upatoi, GA 31829
Phone:706-676-0379
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