06/12/2026
We opened our pool this weekend, and it reminded me of one of the most common questions I hear from home buyers in Ocean County:
“Does a pool add value to a home?”
The answer isn’t always straightforward.
Some buyers absolutely love pools and won’t even consider a home without one. They picture summer afternoons with family, backyard barbecues, and their own private oasis. We installed ours soon after purchasing, and I really enjoy spending time outside.
Others see maintenance, insurance costs, opening and closing expenses, and less yard space. Ask my husband how much he enjoys maintaining the pool! My pictures say it all.
As a Realtor helping buyers and sellers throughout Ocean County, I’ve found that a pool is often a lifestyle feature more than a value feature.
A well-maintained inground pool can make a home stand out and attract the right buyer. But it doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll get back every dollar spent installing it.
What buyers really love is a complete outdoor living experience a beautiful pool, patio space, landscaping, and room to entertain. Blaze is our pool’s #1 fan.
So now I’m curious...
If you were buying a home in Ocean County today, would a pool be:
🏊 Must Have
👍 Nice Bonus
🚫 Deal Breaker
Tell me why in the comments!
