Add Value To Your Home – Put In A Pool

Jul 19, 2009 in In-Ground Pools

: Image via Wikipedia

Though most people consider swimming pools merely a source of relaxation, exercise and fun – especially on hot days – it’s good to keep in mind they are also a great way to enhance the value of your home.

Of all the possible modifications, add-ons, renovations, etc. you can do to your house to increase its value, adding an in-ground swimming pool can prove to be the best choice overall.

Of course, a new kitchen or bathroom is always nice, but a swimming pool can add a whole new dimension to a home.

It not only adds value by allowing a homeowner to have friends and family over to have fun and grow valuable relationships, but a well maintained pool can be a real anchor for a high market price when it’s time to sell.

Above-ground pools don’t have the same appeal as in-ground pools. Especially when it’s time to sell (or buy) a home.

Plus, above-ground pools don’t allow for customizations or offer a variety of sizes, shapes, materials, etc.

That’s not to say that above-ground pools don’t have their upsides. They do. The first would be price.

Above ground pools cost in the hundreds of dollars, while in-ground pools cost in the thousands to tens of thousands of dollars.

The second is portability. You just can’t break down and pack up an in-ground pool, right?

Of course, there are several other considerations when comparing the two types of pools.

But the short story is that above-ground pools cost less across the board.

Even though above ground pools aren’t that deep, they are great for enjoying yourself on a hot day, or just getting out there and splashing water with your family and friends.

And they DO add value in terms of the relationships aspect, but not so much in terms of the resale value of the house.

On the other hand, while in-ground pools are more costly overall, they also add more value overall – both in the short and long terms.

The fact that the water level is slightly below ground level is much more preferred by people of all ages and abilities.

Plus, having a deck or patio at virtually the same level as the water is just so much more natural than having to climb up to get in the water.

With custom-built in-ground pools you can choose to have a shallow end for children and those who are learning to swim, then add a deep end on the other side for diving boards and lap swimming.

Keep in mind that installing an in-ground pool will take from a couple of weeks to a couple of months.

It also involves digging up your yard, a lot of equipment coming and going, noise, dust and other inconveniences.

Your contractor should inform you about everything you can expect during the entire process. If they don’t, take the initiative to ask them. It’s your house and pool, after all.

Once the pool is installed and all the finishing and decking work is complete, have your home appraised again and see what the new value is.

Now, take the newly appraised amount, subtract the entire cost of the pool AND the previously appraised amount.

Whatever you have left-over, if any, is the value you just added to your home. Congratulations!