Does a Pool Increase the Value of a Home?

Here's what to know before you take the plunge

By Tobie Stanger

May 11, 2024

overhead view of pool with stone patio, 4 orange lounge chairs, and grass along outer edge

In-ground pools have traditionally been considered a drag on home sales because not all buyers want to deal with the maintenance or potential liability and safety risks.

"There are many buyers who will not consider a home with a pool," says Francie Malina, a licensed real estate salesperson at Compass Real Estate in Dobbs Ferry, N.Y. "Homes with pools can have fewer showings than the same house without a pool."

However, Malina also notes that homes with pools are highly sought after by a smaller facet of buyers who value such a feature.

The bottom line is a pool is a fun feature that can bring joy to your family for years to come, but don’t expect to recoup your expenses when it comes time to sell your house.

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Tobie Stanger

As a senior editor at Consumer Reports for more than 30 years, Tobie Stanger specialized in helping readers shop wisely, save money, and avoid scams. Her home- and shopping-related beats have included appliance and grocery stores, generators, homeowners and flood insurance, humidifiers, lawn mowers, and luggage. She also covered home improvement products, including flooring, roofing, and siding.