Deciding to Take the Plunge?

Deciding to Take the Plunge?
By Julie Lemos, REALTOR®

As summer heats up, many homeowners dream of backyard barbecues, pool parties, and relaxing swims. But if you’re thinking about buying or selling a home with a pool in Connecticut, it’s important to weigh both the benefits and potential drawbacks.

Pros:

• Pools can boost curb appeal and create a resort-like vibe that attracts buyers, especially in the summer months.
• For families and those who love to entertain, a pool offers a private oasis—no beach traffic required!
• In higher-end markets, a well-maintained pool can add to a home’s perceived luxury and lifestyle value.

Cons:

• Connecticut’s seasonal climate means pools are typically only used 3-4 months a year, which may limit their appeal to some buyers.
• Pools come with ongoing maintenance costs, liability concerns, and potential insurance premiums.
• Some buyers view pools as more of a hassle than a perk, especially families with young children with safety concerns or those looking for low-maintenance living.

In our area, a pool won’t always increase your home’s appraised value significantly—but it may help it sell faster if it’s in good condition and marketed correctly. Particularly since Covid, it’s been interesting to see how having a pool has increased in desirability.  As a result, it has impacted market values in some cases.  Many buyers are more willing now to pay a premium for a home with a pool.  I attribute this partially to the realization that it’s not unfathomable to be stuck at home. And the other factor is how the cost of installing an inground pool has gone through the roof.

Bottom line: A pool can be a splashy feature—but whether it adds value depends on your location, buyer demand, and how well it’s maintained. Thinking of buying or selling? Let’s talk about what makes the most sense for your goals.