How a High-End Pool Increases Property Value
In the world of luxury real estate, few amenities make as dramatic a statement as a meticulously designed swimming pool. Beyond providing a refreshing escape and entertainment venue, a high-end pool represents a significant investment that many homeowners wonder about from a financial perspective. Is the substantial upfront cost of a luxury pool justified by its return on investment? Let’s dive into the numbers and considerations that make luxury pools a compelling addition to high-value properties.
The Numbers Behind Luxury Pool ROI
Recent real estate data shows that swimming pools typically increase a home’s value by approximately 7%. While this percentage might seem modest, the actual dollar value becomes substantial when applied to luxury properties. For example, with the median U.S. home price at $435,500 as of June 2025, a 7% increase translates to about $30,485 in added value for an average home.
However, the ROI equation changes dramatically in the luxury market. In high-end neighborhoods and warm-climate regions, the impact is considerably more significant:
- In Los Angeles, a well-designed pool adds an average of $95,393 to property values
- In Austin, pools increase home values by approximately $52,228
- Even in more moderate markets like Charlotte, pools add around $34,917 to a home’s worth
For homes in the $700,000-$1,000,000+ price range—where Strand Luxury Pools typically operates—the value proposition becomes even more attractive. At this price point, buyers expect premium amenities, and a luxury pool transitions from being merely an optional feature to an expected component of the property.
Beyond the Percentage: Qualitative Value Considerations
The true ROI of a luxury pool extends beyond simple percentages. Consider these additional value factors:
Market Differentiation
In competitive luxury markets, a distinctive pool can be the deciding factor that sells a property. When potential buyers are comparing similarly priced homes, the one with an expertly designed infinity edge overlooking a scenic view or a resort-style pool complex will invariably generate more interest and stronger offers.
Lifestyle Enhancement
While difficult to quantify, the lifestyle value of a luxury pool cannot be overstated. The ability to entertain guests in a stunning outdoor environment, exercise at home, or simply relax in a private oasis represents a quality-of-life improvement that many high-net-worth individuals gladly invest in.
Extended Living Space
Modern luxury pools effectively expand a home’s usable living area by creating sophisticated outdoor rooms. With features like swim-up bars, outdoor kitchens, and comfortable lounging areas, these spaces become natural extensions of the home’s interior, substantially increasing the functional square footage of the property.
Maximizing Your Pool’s ROI
To ensure the highest possible return on your pool investment, consider these strategic approaches:
Architectural Integration
The most valuable pools don’t appear as afterthoughts but rather as integral components of the property’s overall design. When a pool’s aesthetic seamlessly complements the home’s architecture, the perceived value increases substantially.
Quality Materials
Using premium, long-lasting materials not only enhances the immediate visual appeal but also reduces long-term maintenance costs. Materials like glass tile, natural stone coping, and advanced pebble finishes command higher valuations than standard options.
Smart Technology Integration
Today’s luxury buyers expect convenience and efficiency. Pools equipped with automated cleaning systems, smartphone controls, and energy-efficient equipment demonstrate thoughtful design that justifies premium pricing.
The Bottom Line: Investment Perspective
While a standard pool might not fully recoup its installation costs at resale, luxury pools in high-end properties often tell a different story. When properly designed, constructed with premium materials, and thoughtfully integrated into a luxury property, a high-end pool can deliver returns that approach or even exceed the initial investment.
More importantly, luxury pools help properties sell faster in competitive markets. A stunning pool creates emotional appeal that often leads to quicker sales and stronger offers—a form of ROI that goes beyond the simple calculation of cost versus added value.
For homeowners planning to enjoy their property for years before selling, the equation becomes even more favorable. The years of enjoyment and memories created around a luxury pool represent a personal return that, combined with the property value increase, makes a compelling case for this investment.
At Strand Luxury Pools, we specialize in creating water features that not only enhance your lifestyle but also maximize your property’s value through thoughtful design, premium materials, and flawless execution. Contact us to learn how we can help you make a splash in both enjoyment and investment.
