A Deep Dive On The Value Of Pools In Real Estate

Thinking of making waves in the Kelowna real estate scene? With the sun-kissed summers here, who wouldn’t want to dip their toes in their own backyard oasis? While Kelowna and the surrounding area are certainly known for the incredible access and proximity to the biggest lake in BC, sometimes it's nice to have your own repreive from the heat right in your backyard. 

If you're flip-flopping over whether a pool would be a splashy hit for your home's value, let's dive in. Ok, puns aside, we'll be leaning on our friends over at Purely Pools to truly dig into the in's and outs of pool building and creating your backyard water oasis - and we'll stick to the basics: Types of Pools, Maintenance, Build Considerations and expected increase in home value. 

Above Ground Pools

If budget and permanence is top of mind for you, an above ground pool might be the route to go. Typically made of vinyl, metal, or resin. They're elevated and sit on the ground.

Maintenance

Maintenance is generally simpler then most other pools. Regular cleaning and occasional liner replacements are needed.

Water Treatment

• Chlorine Tablets: Easy to use. Just drop them in and let the fun begin.
• Ozone Systems: Uses fewer chemicals and is eco-friendly. Just imagine, fewer chemicals and more floating

Build Considerations

Requires flat ground and accessibility for installation. Building usually takes a few days to weeks

Suggested Increase to Your Home's Value:

With the addition of a well kept, clean above ground pool, a homeowner can expect an increase in value of around 1-3%, but they're often not considered a permanent feature, and some buyers may see them as a drawback, making them a more personal choice then an investment.

In Ground Pools

The In-Ground pool is the quintessential value add, the likes of which you see in sun kissed yards from modest homes to ultra luxury mansions. From birthday parties to BBQ's to sweet relief from the summer heat, the in ground pool is a backyard centerpiece. 

With multiple types of in-ground pools to choose from, we'll quickly cover the the most important factors to consider, and how they may add value to your home. 

There are 4 main types of in-ground pools to choose from (Vinyl, Concrete, Fibreglass and Steel Frame), and we'll let our friends at Purely, explain the difference and pros and cons of each of these.

Maintenance

Maintenance can be intensive, especially for concrete pools. Expect weekly cleaning, monthly water testing, and potential resurfacing every 10-15 years.

Water Treatment

• Chlorine: The classic sanitizer. Keeps your pool clean but remember to check those pH levels.
• Saltwater Systems: Converts salt to chlorine. Softer on skin and often less maintenance. 
• Bromine: A good choice for those hot tub corners in larger pools. It's gentler than chlorine but requires more of it.

Build Considerations & Time Frame

Considerations when building out your in ground pool are aplenty - with different accents, and features to build - including shape and materials to fit your taste, slides, diving boards, pool colour and more, you'll also need to to take into account soil type, utility lines, and space. Building can take anywhere from 3-6 months.

Expected Value Add

A homebuyers dream addition, in-ground pools typically add 5-7% to the value of a home, but this can vary based on the pool's quality and the home's location.



If you're interested in seeing some of the beautiful properties currently on the market in Kelowna, with the added luxury of a pool - you can click right here to see what's available.

If you've already got a pool, and would like to understand the value of your home, we'd be happy to provide a complimentary market assessment, feel free to get in touch right here - and of course, if you're looking to renovate, repair or add an exceptional pool to your property and it's value our friends at purely pools would love to here from you!