Does a Pool Add Value?

Will my home be worth more if I put in a pool? The answer to this question has shifted drastically since COVID. 

The answer used to be: No. Many people would rather not deal with the maintenance/liability, so you can't expect more for your house with a pool. 

Today the answer is: Yes. Full stop. 

Why? 

1. Desirability: Everyone wants a pool these days. COVID showed us that having your own sanctuary, especially when Charleston's heat sets in, is invaluable. After all, neighborhood pools are great until they get shut down. 

2. Cost: Just like all renovations, the cost to install a pool is trending upward. The price you pay to install a pool today will be less than what a buyer would pay in the future. 

3. Time: between permitting and scheduling, it's a 6+ mo long process to get a pool project completed. Buyers realize they can be swimming in your pool a lot faster than waiting for their own to be installed. 

The design of a pool (and associated cost) is very personal and dictated by how you intend to use it. Dede uses her pool year round to exercise and tread water, so she has an electric heater and a retractable cover that helps hold in the heat.  If you only see yourself using it in the spring/summer months, you may not need a cover, which will save thousands, but it's smart to design it to accommodate a future cover. Those with young children will want it for safety.

One of our clients opted for a plunge pool when his lot wouldn't accommodate a larger pool. He says the speed in which they can heat & cool it means they use it more often, so he's been pleasantly surprised by their enjoyment, despite the compact size. It's expensive to heat up a spa/hot tub, but that's another personal feature you may elect to incorporate. In the summer months, having a chiller could be more valuable than a hot tub.

A baja shelf or tanning ledge makes a nice spot for loungers, but they're also valuable for little ones who want to splash in the pool but aren't good swimmers yet. Consider incorporating a hole for an umbrella to shade the ledge. 

Buyers seem to gravitate towards in-ground, salt water, gunite pools, so think twice before you consider an insert or chlorinated option.

Lastly, don't forget the hardscape & landscape budget. The pool is just part of the equation. You won't get the full benefit of your investment unless it's surrounded by lush landscape and lighting.