Selling A House With A Bad Pool? Focus On The Fix

Selling a house with a pool can be a tricky business. While some buyers will view it as a luxurious bonus, others will see it as a costly burden. If your pool is in good condition, it's a great opportunity to showcase it as an appealing feature. Emphasise the entertainment and lifestyle benefits it offers, especially if you're in a warmer climate. However, if your pool is a nightmare, you may need to consider other options. Full disclosure is legally required, so be transparent about any issues, and consider pricing your home competitively to attract buyers. Alternatively, you could choose to demolish the pool, but this may still be a turn-off for some buyers, and it's cheaper to simply disclose and sell as-is.

Disclose the leak and price the house accordingly

When selling a house with a bad pool, disclosing the leak and pricing the house accordingly is a viable option. Here are some key considerations for this approach:

Legal Requirements and Protection

Disclosure laws vary by state and locality, but in general, sellers are required to provide details about a property's condition that could negatively impact its value. Failing to disclose known issues can result in legal consequences, including lawsuits and fines. To protect yourself, it is essential to disclose any leaks or water damage to potential buyers. This can usually be done through a disclosures document provided by a real estate agent.

Impact on Selling Price and Buyer Pool

Disclosing a leak will likely lead to a reduction in the selling price of your house. Buyers will seek to deduct the cost of remediation from their offer. Additionally, disclosing a leak may result in a longer time on the market as there is a smaller buyer pool for houses that need repairs.

Health and Safety Concerns

Any water issues in a home can pose health hazards, particularly if mould is present. Water damage can also affect the home's electrical system, creating safety risks and potentially causing electrical fires. It is important to address these concerns and ensure necessary repairs or remediation are completed before selling.

Remediation and Repairs

Before putting your house on the market, it is advisable to address the leak and any resulting damage. This may involve repairing or replacing the pool, as well as fixing any affected structural elements of the house. It is crucial to provide evidence of all remediation and repair work, including receipts, invoices, and warranties, to potential buyers.

Alternative Options

If disclosing the leak and pricing the house accordingly is not feasible or desirable, there are alternative options. You could consider selling the house "as-is" to a cash investor, who specialises in buying fixer-upper properties. This option may allow you to avoid the hassle and cost of repairs but will likely result in a lower selling price. Another option is to repair the roof before selling, but this can be a costly and time-consuming process.

Fix the leak and price the house higher

If you're selling a house with a pool, it's important to know that a pool can be a double-edged sword. For some buyers, it's a dream feature, while for others, it's a deal-breaker. So, if you're looking to sell your house with a bad pool, one option is to fix the leak and price the house higher. Here's a guide on how to do this effectively:

Assess the Damage and Cost of Repairs

Before you decide to fix the leak, it's important to assess the damage and determine the cost of repairs. A pool leak can vary in severity, from a small crack to a major structural issue. The cost of repairing a pool leak can range from $10 to $3,500, depending on the size and type of pool, as well as the extent of the damage. For example, inground pool repairs are generally more expensive than above-ground pool repairs due to the complexity of finding and fixing leaks. Additionally, the cost of materials and labour will also impact the overall price.

Hire a Professional Pool Inspector

To accurately assess the damage and necessary repairs, it's recommended to hire a certified licensed pool inspector. They will be able to conduct a comprehensive inspection, including a leak detection test, and identify any potential safety hazards. This will help you understand the full scope of the project and ensure that all necessary repairs are addressed. A pool inspection typically costs between $200 and $500.

Conduct Necessary Repairs

Once you have a clear understanding of the issues, it's time to conduct the necessary repairs. If you have the necessary skills and knowledge, you may be able to tackle some minor repairs yourself, such as patching small leaks. However, for more complex issues, it's best to hire a professional pool repair company. They will have the expertise and equipment to properly address the leak and ensure a long-lasting solution.

Enhance the Pool's Appearance

After addressing the leak, you can enhance the pool's appearance to make it more appealing to potential buyers. This includes ensuring the pool is clean and free of any debris, as well as repairing or replacing any damaged or outdated features, such as tiles, lighting, or decking. You may also want to consider staging the pool area with inviting furniture and strategic landscaping to create a relaxing ambiance.

Price the House Competitively

When pricing your house, you can factor in the cost of the pool repairs and improvements. Research the real estate market in your area to understand how much value a well-maintained pool can add to your home. In warmer climates, such as California, a pool can increase your home's value by up to $95,000. However, in cooler areas, the added value may be significantly less. Consider hiring a local real estate agent who can provide insights into pricing strategies and help you effectively market your home to attract the right buyers.

Demolish the pool

Demolishing a pool is a complex process that requires careful planning and execution. Here are some detailed steps to help you navigate the process:

Understand the Reasons for Demolition:

Recognize the underlying issues that have led to the decision to demolish the pool. Common reasons include safety concerns, high maintenance costs, liability risks, space limitations, or a desire to repurpose the area.

Engage Professionals:

Hire a reputable and experienced pool demolition contractor. Ensure they have the necessary licenses, insurance, and expertise to handle the entire process, from obtaining permits to responsible disposal of materials.

Obtain Necessary Permits:

Before beginning the demolition, acquire the required permits from your local authorities. Each city has its own set of regulations and permit costs. Ensure you understand the specific requirements for your location.

Disconnect Utilities:

Before demolition can start, it is crucial to disconnect all utilities, including electrical, water, and sewer lines. This step ensures that the necessary systems are safely capped and removed to comply with safety standards.

Drain the Pool:

The pool water needs to be drained safely. You can drain it into the sewer system or, if necessary, transport the water using a liquid truck. Ensure you follow local regulations for water disposal.

Demolition Process:

The pool demolition contractor will utilize specialized equipment, such as excavators, skid steer loaders, and padded drum rollers, to break down the pool shell and remove the debris. This process requires careful handling to minimize disturbance to the surrounding area.

Responsible Disposal:

Ensure that the demolition contractor commits to responsible disposal and recycling of the removed materials, including concrete, plaster, and any other debris. This step is essential for environmental protection and compliance with local regulations.

Backfill and Compaction:

After the pool shell is removed, the excavated hole must be backfilled with clean fill dirt. The top two feet should be reserved for new landscaping. The soil is then compacted to provide a firm foundation and stable footing for any new construction or landscaping.

Final Grading and Landscaping:

Once the compaction is complete, the area can be graded to create a solid surface suitable for landscaping or gardening. This step allows you to repurpose the space according to your preferences, whether it's installing a patio, seating area, or a lush garden.

Remember, pool demolition is a specialized task that requires adherence to safety and environmental regulations. Always consult with professionals who can guide you through the process, ensuring a safe, efficient, and compliant demolition.

Market the pool as a luxury item

Marketing the Pool as a Luxury Item

When it comes to selling a house with a pool, it's important to recognise that a pool can be a double-edged sword. For some buyers, it's a dream feature, while for others, it's a deal-breaker. However, with the right strategy, you can effectively market the pool as a luxury item and increase your home's appeal to potential buyers. Here are some tips to help you achieve that:

Highlight the Entertainment and Relaxation Factor

Emphasise the pool as a place of relaxation and entertainment. Showcase it as a private oasis where future owners can unwind and de-stress. Highlight the potential for memorable gatherings and fun family activities. Present it as a symbol of the owner's commitment to their family and community, creating a sense of pride and exclusivity.

Emphasise the Luxury and Appeal

A pool is often perceived as an item of luxury and can draw buyers who view it as a desirable and high-end feature. Emphasise this aspect by showcasing the pool's design, amenities, and any unique features. Consider adding some luxury touches, such as a sun shelf, infinity edge, built-in spa, or LED colour-changing lights. These enhancements can elevate the pool's ambiance and make it more appealing to buyers seeking a luxurious lifestyle.

Enhance the Surrounding Area

Don't forget to pay attention to the area surrounding the pool. The landscaping and furniture are part of the overall environment and can impact the buyer's perception. Consider adding potted plants, a lush lawn, and well-trimmed bushes or trees. Create a cosy atmosphere with comfortable outdoor furniture, such as chaise lounges, recliners, and accent tables. You can also add colourful cushions or towels to make the space more inviting.

Address Safety Concerns

While showcasing the pool's appeal, it's essential to address safety concerns, especially for buyers with children or pets. Install safety features such as fencing, secure gates, alarms, or protective covers. By proactively addressing these concerns, you can provide peace of mind to potential buyers and make your pool more desirable.

Stage the Pool Area

Go the extra mile and stage the pool area to help buyers envision themselves enjoying the space. Create a welcoming ambiance by adding stylish accessories, such as loungers or umbrellas, or a cosy fire pit. You can also offer landscaping ideas that blend the pool seamlessly with the garden elements, emphasising the multifunctionality of the area.

Showcase the Added Value

When marketing the pool, highlight the added value it brings to the property. Real estate experts estimate that an in-ground pool can increase a home's value by 5% to 8%, and sometimes even more, depending on the market. Emphasise the financial benefits and the potential for a good return on investment.

Address safety concerns

Addressing safety concerns is paramount when selling a house with a pool. Pools can be seen as dangerous, especially for families with small children. In fact, many buyers consider a pool a safety risk and will be wary of the potential danger it poses. Therefore, it is essential to emphasise the safety features your pool offers. Here are some ways to address safety concerns when selling a house with a pool:

• Install safety hazard protection: Buyers value safety, so it is crucial to install necessary safety features such as fencing, safety gates, pool covers, or alarms. These features provide peace of mind to potential buyers, especially those with children or pets. A secure gate with a self-closing and self-latching mechanism can prevent young children from accessing the pool area unsupervised. An alarm system can also be installed to alert you if someone enters the pool area.
• Emphasise safety features: When showcasing your house to potential buyers, be sure to highlight the safety aspects of your pool. Mention any sturdy fences, secure gates, alarm systems, or protective covers that are in place. This will help alleviate buyers' concerns about pool safety, especially if they have children.
• Get a pool inspection: Before putting your house on the market, consider getting a pool inspection to identify any potential safety hazards. This will allow you to address these issues before buyers start viewing your home. A pool inspection shows transparency and builds trust with buyers, assuring them that the pool is safe and well-maintained.
• Share maintenance records: Keep detailed records of pool maintenance and share them with potential buyers. This demonstrates your diligence in maintaining the pool and can give buyers confidence that the pool is in good condition. Regular maintenance and proper upkeep address safety concerns by reducing the risk of equipment malfunctions or water-related issues.
• Recommend swimming lessons: If your target buyers have children, recommend local swimming lessons. This not only provides peace of mind but also highlights the family bonding opportunities that owning a pool offers. It shows that you are considerate of their concerns and are offering a solution to help them feel more comfortable with the idea of having a pool.
• Provide safety statistics: Educate potential buyers about pool safety and share relevant statistics. For example, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, having an isolation fence around the pool can reduce a child's risk of drowning by 83% compared to a pool without one. Providing such data can help alleviate buyers' safety concerns and showcase your pool as a safe and enjoyable feature of the home.

By proactively addressing safety concerns and implementing the necessary measures, you can turn a potential drawback into a selling point. Remember, buyers value safety, and by taking these steps, you can provide reassurance and peace of mind, making it easier to sell your house with a pool.

Frequently asked questions