Are Pools a Cool Real Estate Feature?

"Summertime, and the living is easy …"

Just like that timeless Gershwin lyric from Porgy & Bess, we’re often asked the old question about swimming pools and whether or not they add any value to a property. The summer season finds many prospective sellers asking us if they can increase their list price based on the fact that they have a pool.

There are, of course, many opinions about the added value a pool might bring. We take the same approach to that question that we do most non-essential features or options included with a property. A pool adds value as long as it’s a feature a buyer is seeking. Another non-essential feature might be a fenced yard or a third garage bay, or maybe an outbuilding for storage. These accessories were at one time invaluable to the current owner, but might not be a value-added proposition for all buyers.

Pools are awesome in my opinion. I love them and each summer I spend as much time enjoying those belonging to friends and relatives as I can. If I were in the market for a house, I might be willing to pay a little more for a pool.

There are others, of course, that think a pool is a burden. Either they think the maintenance is more responsibility than they care to take on, or maybe they just aren’t pool people.

From our perspective, the short answer to the question is that pools are like so many variables when pricing property. It only adds value if a buyer is seeking a pool. Therefore, I’m not inclined to increase a listing price based solely on the existence of a pool. Likewise, we don’t recommend a lower list price if a pool is present. It’s a neutral feature until someone shows a desire to have one or a reason not to.

By the way, business is still hot. There are still a lot of buyers in the pool and the inventory remains in the shallow end. So dive in—the water is fine.

iDeal Real Estate Professionals LLC is owned and operated by Brandon Bramlett and C. Mark Willix and is affiliated with Maximum One Realty Greater Atlanta. For personalized service, visit us at www.idealrealestateprofessionals.com. You can also email us at info@idealrealestateprofessionals.com.