Pool vs. No Pool: Does It Really Add Value in Baton Rouge?
It’s officially the season where we all remember just how hot and humid Baton Rouge can get. And with that comes the age-old homeowner question: Does adding a pool actually boost my home’s value? Or is it just a high-maintenance dream?
Let’s talk about it—from the perspective of real-life buyers, resale potential, and what really matters in our Louisiana market.
First Things First: Do Pools Add Value?
The short answer? It depends.
A pool can absolutely increase a home’s appeal, especially in areas like Baton Rouge where summers are long, kids are out of school, and entertaining outdoors is part of the culture. But the value it adds isn’t always dollar-for-dollar. It’s more about how it positions your home compared to others on the market.
If your home is in a neighborhood where most properties have pools and yours doesn’t, it might feel like a “minus” to buyers. But if you're one of the few with a well-maintained pool in a subdivision where outdoor living is rare? That’s a huge plus.
What Buyers Actually Care About
From what I see as a local Realtor (and a Baton Rouge native who’s toured a lot of backyards), here's what stands out:
A pool that looks clean, updated, and easy to maintain
Safety features like fencing or alarms if they have little ones
A yard that still has space to be a yard (some buyers want room for pets or play)
Pool perks, like a new liner, upgraded equipment, or outdoor entertaining spaces nearby
The pool itself is great, but the lifestyle it creates? That’s the real selling point.
The Maintenance Question
Buyers do ask about upkeep. And let’s be honest: not everyone wants to be skimming leaves in August.
So if you're thinking about installing a pool just to sell your house—pause. But if you already have one or plan to enjoy it for a few years first? It can absolutely be a feature that sets your home apart when you’re ready to sell.
How I Market Pool Homes
This is where a little design magic comes in. When I list a home with a pool, I make sure we highlight:
Golden hour pool shots that show off the ambiance
Lifestyle staging (think: lounge chairs, string lights, a tray with lemonade)
Video walkthroughs that let buyers imagine hosting friends or floating with a book
We’re not just selling a pool. We’re selling summer memories.
Should You Add One?
Still unsure whether a pool is the right move for your home or investment property? I’d be happy to chat it through. Every situation is different—and that’s where having someone in your corner who understands both design and resale value can make all the difference.
Helping you find home… and sometimes, the perfect place to float.
