Home Pools Produce More Pleasure Than Profit

In such areas as Southern California, swimming pools are an expected amenity in home purchases. Realtors say the more elaborate, the better, in these markets. However, for many home shoppers, a backyard pool is actually a turnoff. In addition to a potential liability and danger for children, these buyers view pools as an expense that the family budget cannot bear. According to real estate agents, a pool keeps some shoppers from even considering a house despite the current limited supply of available residences. Other buyers are more drawn to communities where public pools are maintained by homeowner associations and there is no need for a private pool at their homes. For many, swimming pools are a personal preference instead of an expense that homeowners can expect to recoup when it comes time to sell. Appraisers say that whether a pool is a plus or minus when a home is resold depends on a number of variables — particularly if it is too much of a personal statement, out of style, or in disrepair. In general, buyers tend to pay more for a home’s additional square footage, upgrades, lot size, or location. | Read More