The Impact of a Pool on the Value of Your Property in Quebec

The Value of Adding a Pool to Your Property

Adding a pool, whether above-ground or in-ground, constitutes a significant investment for homeowners. However, is this substantial expense justified when it comes to selling the home later on? A skilled real estate agent, known for their expertise in the local housing market, can play a crucial role in this decision. They can assess various factors that might influence how a pool impacts your property's resale value. These considerations include the neighborhood, the type of residence, the age of the pool, the quality of maintenance, and the overall landscape design. These elements can significantly affect your property's valuation.

For In-Ground Pools

In affluent areas, a high-end in-ground pool that blends seamlessly with beautiful landscaping can be quite costly. Shows like Dream Pools exemplify this well. Such an investment could easily add 50% of its cost to the value of the home (source LaPresse). This significant gain could justify the initial investment, particularly if the property is located in a region where buyers highly value such luxury features. A prominent real estate agent, with their deep understanding of the local housing market, can guide homeowners through these considerations, ensuring they make decisions that align with market demands and property values.

In neighborhoods where properties sell for around the average provincial sale price, about $439,000 in Quebec (source Centris), the scenario slightly changes. A basic pool installation costing between $10,000 and $30,000 might see its return on investment fall below 50% of its initial cost, sometimes even hitting 20% depending on its upkeep and style. While not as dramatic as in more upscale sectors, this addition to the property remains a marketable asset, as confirmed by real estate professionals.

For Above-Ground Pools

The notion often exists that above-ground pools do not add any value at resale. Yet, if the pool is new or nearly new, it might represent 20 to 30% of the initial investment. With the highly competitive market for above-ground pools and their increasingly affordable purchase prices, considering 20% to 30% of a $5,000 buying price, for instance, doesn't significantly impact a property valued at an average of $439,000 in Quebec. Therefore, one can indeed say that an above-ground pool does not affect the sale price of your property significantly. However, a knowledgeable real estate agent can provide insights tailored to your particular situation, confirming the actual impact on your property's value.

Long-Term Considerations

It's crucial to note that the value addition of a pool may decrease over time. A decade down the line, the return on investment tends to diminish depending on the pool type and its overall condition. Pools require regular maintenance and might need costly repairs over the years. These additional costs must be considered when evaluating the initial investment.

Investing in a pool is a decision that should be carefully considered. In areas where pools are highly desired and can significantly increase property values, it could prove to be a wise investment. However, it's essential to weigh not only the initial cost but also long-term maintenance expenses and the potential impact on the property's value as it ages.

If you're considering selling shortly, it's also important to think about how quickly you might recoup a portion of your investment. In summary, adding a pool can be beneficial, but this decision needs to be in line with your long-term financial and residential goals. For those eyeing the real estate market, consulting with a real estate agent experienced in navigating the complexities of the local market can provide invaluable guidance. Their local understanding and professional insight ensure that decisions regarding property enhancements, like adding a pool, align with achieving the best possible outcome when selling your home.

For tailored advice on how a pool investment could impact your property's value or for guidance on buying a home with a pool, feel free to reach out to Gail Meili, your go-to residential real estate broker in Vaudreuil-Dorion. Her extensive knowledge of the Vaudreuil-Dorion housing market and commitment to ensuring clients make informed decisions make Gail invaluable resources. You can contact Gail Meili at 514 969-4134 or via email at gailmeili@icloud.com.