Does a Swimming Pool Really Add Value to Your Kelowna Home?

Few home improvement projects spark as much debate as installing a swimming pool. Some homeowners see it as the ultimate backyard upgrade, while others worry they’ll never recover the investment when it comes time to sell.

In Kelowna, the answer isn’t as straightforward as it might be elsewhere in Canada. Our long, warm summers, outdoor lifestyle, and strong demand for homes with entertaining spaces make the Okanagan a unique real estate market. But does that automatically mean a pool increases your home’s value?

Not necessarily.

Like many real estate questions, the answer depends on the property, the location, and the buyers you’re hoping to attract.

Kelowna’s Climate Makes Pools More Appealing

Unlike many Canadian cities where a swimming pool may only be used for a few weeks each year, Kelowna enjoys an extended outdoor season. Warm summers often stretch well into September, and many homeowners spend a significant portion of the year enjoying their backyards.

Because of this, buyers are often looking beyond the house itself. Outdoor living spaces have become just as important as open-concept kitchens or finished basements. A well-designed backyard with a pool, covered patio, landscaping, and entertaining area can create an emotional connection that helps a property stand out.

For many buyers, they’re not simply purchasing a home. They’re buying the Okanagan lifestyle.

When a Pool Can Increase a Home’s Appeal

A pool is most likely to enhance a property’s desirability when it complements both the home and the neighbourhood.

Higher-end homes in areas such as Upper Mission, Kettle Valley, Wilden, McKinley Landing, and portions of South East Kelowna often attract buyers who expect premium outdoor amenities. In these markets, a thoughtfully designed pool can feel like a natural extension of the home.

Pools can also be attractive for:

• Families with older children
• Buyers who enjoy entertaining
• Homes with generous, private backyards
• Properties with outdoor kitchens or covered living spaces
• Luxury homes where buyers expect resort-style features

In these situations, a pool may not dramatically increase the appraised value, but it can make the home more memorable and more competitive when compared with similar properties.

When a Pool May Not Add Value

On the other hand, there are situations where a pool may have little impact on resale value or even narrow the pool of interested buyers.

For example:

• Smaller lots where the pool dominates the backyard
• Older pools requiring expensive repairs
• Homes in entry-level price ranges
• Buyers concerned about maintenance costs
• Families with very young children
• Properties with outdated landscaping surrounding the pool

Some buyers immediately see a pool as a lifestyle upgrade. Others see ongoing maintenance, increased insurance costs, and future repairs.

Because buyer preferences vary, it’s important not to assume that every dollar spent on a pool will translate directly into resale value.

Today’s Buyers Want More Than Just a Pool

Modern buyers are often looking for complete outdoor living spaces rather than a swimming pool alone.

Features that tend to create stronger appeal include:

• Saltwater systems
• Energy-efficient pumps and heaters
• Automatic safety covers
• Attractive lighting
• Low-maintenance landscaping
• Outdoor kitchens and dining areas
• Covered patios for shade
• Comfortable seating and gathering spaces

These elements work together to create a backyard that feels like an extension of the home’s living space.

Should You Install a Pool Before Selling?

Generally speaking, installing a pool solely to increase resale value isn’t the best investment.

A new in-ground pool can cost well into six figures once landscaping, fencing, patios, and utilities are included. While it may increase buyer interest, it rarely returns its full cost at resale.

If you’re considering installing a pool, it should primarily be because you and your family plan to enjoy it for years to come. Any added resale appeal should be viewed as a secondary benefit rather than the primary reason for making the investment.

The Jones | Miles Realty Group Perspective

One of the biggest misconceptions in real estate is that every improvement automatically increases a home’s value. In reality, buyers evaluate properties based on how well the features fit the home, the neighbourhood, and their lifestyle.

In Kelowna, a well-designed pool can absolutely become a selling feature, especially when it’s part of a thoughtfully planned outdoor living space. However, it isn’t a guarantee of a higher selling price.

If you’re wondering whether a pool, renovation, or other improvement makes sense before selling, the best advice is to speak with a local REALTOR® before committing to the investment. Understanding what buyers are currently looking for in your specific neighbourhood can help you make improvements that offer the greatest return.

Whether you’re buying, selling, or simply planning for the future, the Jones Miles Realty Group can help you understand which features add the most value in today’s Kelowna real estate market. Get in touch with us if you want to list your home with a pool for sale or if you’re looking for a home that has a place to float!

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a swimming pool increase home value in Kelowna?

A swimming pool can increase a home’s appeal in Kelowna, particularly in higher-end neighbourhoods where outdoor living is a major selling feature. However, it does not always increase resale value dollar for dollar.

Is it worth installing a pool before selling your home?

In most cases, no. Pools are best viewed as a lifestyle investment rather than a renovation intended solely to increase resale value.

Are homes with pools harder to sell?

Not necessarily. A well-maintained pool can attract buyers looking for an outdoor lifestyle, while some buyers may be deterred by maintenance, insurance, or safety concerns.

Which homes benefit most from having a pool?

Larger homes with private backyards, premium outdoor living spaces, and locations where pools are common typically benefit the most.

What outdoor features add value alongside a pool?

Covered patios, outdoor kitchens, professional landscaping, energy-efficient pool equipment, lighting, and comfortable entertaining areas all help create a cohesive backyard that buyers find appealing.