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Does installing a backyard pool actually add value to the home?

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Milen_22
Joined:
08.05.2024
Posts: 189
Topic Starter
12.03.2025 02:19
My family and I have been debating whether to install an in-ground pool in our backyard this summer. We plan on living here for at least another five to seven years, but I'm worried about the resale value down the line. I've heard conflicting reports that pools can actually turn off potential buyers who don't want the maintenance. Has anyone in a suburban area dealt with this recently, or is it better to just stick to landscaping?
12 replies in this topic
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mati_123
Joined:
17.03.2020
Posts: 2362
06.05.2025 02:37
Honestly, it depends entirely on your neighborhood. If everyone else has a pool, you'll be at a disadvantage without one. If yours is the only one on the block, it might actually hurt your resale value.
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Hani_B
Joined:
23.07.2022
Posts: 2289
14.05.2025 22:23
In reply to a previous post
I second what @User1 said. We installed one three years ago and while we love it, it definitely limited our pool of buyers when we looked at local market data.
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Bg_Pechba
Joined:
25.01.2025
Posts: 2260
09.06.2025 00:37
Don't do it for the money. Do it for the memories. You can't put a price tag on five years of summer fun with your kids.
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Martin_85
Joined:
09.11.2021
Posts: 643
23.07.2025 20:24
In reply to a previous post
I completely agree with the 'memories over money' sentiment. We put one in ten years ago and it was the best investment for our family's quality of life, even if it didn't pay for itself.
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Yavor_K
Joined:
17.04.2024
Posts: 1308
25.08.2025 01:36
Maintenance is a nightmare. Unless you have the budget to hire a professional weekly, you'll be spending your entire weekend skimming leaves and balancing chemicals.
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Toni_M
Joined:
24.04.2025
Posts: 270
08.09.2025 02:52
In reply to a previous post
My neighbor just sold their house and the pool was a major sticking point. Several buyers demanded they fill it in before closing. Definitely think twice if you aren't planning to stay for a decade plus.
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Toni_M
Joined:
02.09.2021
Posts: 247
18.11.2025 22:52
Consider a high-end hot tub or a swim spa instead. Much lower maintenance and usually easier to remove if a future buyer doesn't want it.
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anonimen_bg
Joined:
03.07.2023
Posts: 426
01.12.2025 15:00
In reply to a previous post
That is a great suggestion. We opted for a swim spa last year and it’s been perfect for exercise without the massive backyard footprint.
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agata_k
Joined:
15.11.2020
Posts: 966
11.12.2025 20:01
If you are in a hot climate like Arizona or Florida, it's a must-have. If you're in the Northeast, it's a liability.
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jacek_bg
Joined:
12.03.2023
Posts: 1867
12.01.2026 03:46
In reply to a previous post
Exactly! I live in the Pacific Northwest and a pool here is just a giant hole that collects rain and pine needles for nine months of the year.
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Toni_M
Joined:
13.11.2023
Posts: 1560
24.02.2026 12:33
Stick to the landscaping. A well-designed patio with an outdoor kitchen adds way more universal value than a pool ever will.
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Oli_L
Joined:
31.01.2026
Posts: 266
07.04.2026 19:30
In reply to a previous post
I'm with the landscaping crew. We spent our pool budget on a massive deck and a fire pit area, and every realtor who looks at our house tells us it was the best choice for resale.

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