Everyone loves the idea of a swimming pool but does it add monetary value to your home, especially when it’s time to sell?

The lifestyle benefits of a swimming pool are many – relaxation, entertainment, exercise, aesthetics, a social hub for the kids – but will it add value to your home?

It may seem ironic, but swimming pools are more often seen in seaside suburbs. In these areas, living on the water is a whole way of life to many, so the idea of a pool has value.

Installing a swimming pool in a cooler climate is generally not a good idea. In some cases people have spent hundreds of thousands on heated indoor pools and haven’t been able to recover the outlay.

Before making a decision, look at the local market. Do most houses in your area have pools? If not, there may be a good reason. A pool may reduce your pool of potential buyers (pardon the pun) because those who don’t want a pool. Those who do can always build one themselves. If it’s an upmarket area in a warm climate, however, having a pool may be an expectation.

Get real estate agent advice

Talk to a local real estate agent about how much extra a swimming pool may (or may not) be worth.

A pool may be cost effective if you have a level block with good access for machinery.

If you are investing in a pool, you must be careful that it doesn’t dominate your outdoor space.

Our rule of thumb is, if you have young children a swimming pool can be worthwhile, as they tend to live in their swimmers and will have years of enjoyment.