Homeowners in Ontario often ask whether an existing pool affects property value. While the answer isn’t the same for every home, several factors influence how a pool is viewed in the Canadian real estate market.
Short Swimming Season
Ontario’s climate provides only a few months of comfortable swimming weather. Buyers may hesitate to pay a premium for something they’ll only use for a fraction of the year. For many, the appeal of a pool is overshadowed by the time it remains closed, especially during Ontario’s long, cold winters.
Maintenance and Upkeep Costs
Beyond the initial investment, pools involve ongoing costs such as heating, water treatment, maintenance, and repairs. In a region where you can’t rely on year-round use, these expenses may feel hard to justify. Some buyers may see a pool as a financial burden rather than an added luxury.
Safety and Liability Concerns
Families with young children, or those concerned about liability, may view an in-ground pool as more risk than reward. Even if a buyer appreciates a pool, they might require more safety measures—fencing, covers, or alarms—adding complexity and expense. The extra steps needed to ensure compliance with local bylaws can make a pool less appealing to some.
Space Versus Practical Use
Ontario backyards tend to serve multiple functions: gardening, hosting barbecues, or providing safe play areas for children. A large in-ground pool can limit usable yard space. Buyers who value versatile outdoor living areas might prefer a clean, low-maintenance lawn or patio over a pool that dominates the landscape.
Local Market Conditions
Canadian real estate can vary from city to city. In hot markets like parts of the Greater Toronto Area, buyers may be more forgiving if the home otherwise meets their top priorities. However, even in these markets, a pool doesn’t automatically translate to higher offers. Real estate agents often note that buyers focused on year-round practicality and minimal upkeep are more common than those specifically seeking a pool—especially in a climate that supports only seasonal enjoyment.
Considering Removing a Pool
As some Ontario homeowners look to sell, they choose to fill in their pools to appeal to a broader range of buyers. Without a pool, the property can be staged as a blank canvas for gardening, an outdoor dining area, or a simple, flexible yard that suits many lifestyles. This approach may attract buyers who otherwise would pass on a home with a large, underused pool dominating the backyard.
Whether a pool lowers property value depends on individual preferences, local market conditions, and how well the pool aligns with a buyer’s lifestyle. In Ontario’s climate, the limited season for swimming, ongoing maintenance costs, and potential safety concerns often mean a pool isn’t seen as a straightforward value-booster. Before listing a home with a pool, it’s wise to consult with local real estate professionals to determine how best to position your property in the current market.
FAQs About Pools and Property Value
Q: Can filling in a pool actually increase my home’s value?
Yes, in many cases, filling in a pool can make a home more attractive to buyers who prefer a larger, simpler backyard space. Removing the pool also reduces long-term maintenance costs, which can make your home appealing to a wider audience.
Q: Are there buyers who prefer homes with pools?
Absolutely, but it’s a niche market. Buyers who are specifically seeking a pool are often prepared for the maintenance costs, but they usually represent a smaller segment of the market. In Ontario, buyers tend to lean toward lower-maintenance options due to the climate.
Q: How much does it cost to fill in a pool?
Pool removal costs can vary depending on the size, type of pool, and access to the site. Many homeowners find that this one-time cost is worth it in terms of broadening their home’s appeal.
Q: Does a pool lower insurance premiums?
Actually, having a pool typically raises home insurance premiums. Pools are considered “attractive nuisances,” meaning they could increase the risk of accidents on the property. This is another factor that can make a home less desirable to buyers.
Ready to Make Your Home More Marketable?
If you’re considering selling your home and wondering whether your pool adds value or holds you back, Pool Fill In People can help. We specialize in pool demolition and fill-in services, making the process easy and hassle-free. Contact us today for a quote and see how removing your pool could benefit your home’s value.