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Swimming pools may be viewed by many as a luxury feature. But do they actually add any value to a property? It depends. Some pools can boost a home’s value by as much as 7%, while others may add no value or even reduce value. While some buyers are attracted to the idea of a home with a pool, others are likely to find a home with a pool too much maintenance. There are many other factors that can also affect the value of a pool. Below are some of these factors explained.
Consider your location
Consider whether your home is located. If you live somewhere with a relatively cold climate, an outdoor unheated pool may not be a great selling point and likely won’t add much value. Homes in warmer climates typically have more use for a pool and so these features are likely to be more of a value booster. Pools are most sought after by families – homes in family neighborhoods are therefore also more likely to increase in value with the addiction of a pool.
Choose the style carefully
Avoid choosing a wacky design for your pool such as an odd shape or brightly patterned tiles. Such stylistic choices may not be to everyone’s taste and may affect the value that your pool brings. Try to match the pool’s design to the style of your home. If your home is historic, you may want to opt for a more traditional pool design. If your home is modern, a more modern pool design will suit it better. 
Don’t take up the whole yard
You should avoid building a pool that takes up the entire yard. Many people still want some outdoor space for kids to play, pets to run around, for eating outdoors or for gardening. If you’ve got a small yard, you may want to stick to nothing more than a plunge pool so that you’re not taking up too much space. Larger swimming pools are better suited for larger yards.
Make sure it’s well maintained
A swimming pool that is derelict or in disrepair definitely won’t add any value to your home. If you’ve got a swimming pool already, make sure that it is well-maintained. Swimming pool repair is worth investing in, even if you don’t use your pool. The better the condition of your pool, the more likely it is to add value. 
The verdict
A pool can add value – but it depends where your home is located, what the pool looks like, how big it is and how well maintained it is. None of this may matter if you’re building a pool for your forever home. But if you have plans of selling, you may want to factor it in.