The Impact of a Gunite Pool on Your Property Value
A gunite pool is more than a luxury—it’s a long-term investment in your home. Homeowners often wonder: Will installing a gunite pool increase my property value? The answer is yes, but the extent of the increase depends on several factors, including design, location, and market conditions.
This post explores how a gunite pool can impact your home’s resale value, what buyers are looking for, and how to maximize your return on investment (ROI) while creating a backyard oasis you can enjoy for years.
🏡 Why Gunite Pools Are a Valuable Asset
Unlike vinyl or fiberglass pools, gunite pools are custom-built from concrete and steel, offering superior durability and complete design flexibility. This means they:
Last 50+ years with proper care
Can be customized with luxury features (fire bowls, tanning ledges, waterfalls)
Adapt to any landscape or architectural style
Are viewed as permanent home improvements rather than temporary upgrades
These attributes make them particularly appealing to homebuyers seeking long-term value and visual appeal.
📈 How Much Can a Gunite Pool Increase Property Value?
According to real estate studies and pool industry data, adding a well-designed, well-maintained gunite pool can increase your home’s value by 7% to 15%, depending on your location and market demand.
Factors that Influence ROI:
| Factor | Impact |
|---|---|
| Climate | Warmer climates like Tennessee, Florida, or Texas see higher ROI since pools can be used year-round |
| Neighborhood Trends | If pools are common in your area, buyers expect them, making your home more competitive. |
| Design Quality | High-end features, professional landscaping, and seamless integration add more value. |
| Maintenance Record | A well-maintained pool with updated equipment is more appealing to buyers |
| Lot Size | A pool that complements a spacious yard adds more value than one that crowds a small space. |
🔍 Pro Tip: A gunite pool is most valuable when it enhances, not overwhelms, your property.
🛠️ The Long-Term Value of Gunite vs. Other Pool Types
While all pools offer some lifestyle and aesthetic benefits, gunite pools stand out for their longevity and custom appeal. Unlike fiberglass or vinyl pools, which may need full replacement after 10–20 years, gunite pools can last a lifetime with occasional resurfacing.
| Feature | Gunite | Fiberglass | Vinyl |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lifespan | 50+ years | 20–30 years | 10–15 years |
| Customization | Fully custom | Limited shapes | Limited shapes |
| Durability | High | Moderate | Low |
| Resale Impact | High | Medium | Low |
Buyers often associate gunite with high-end properties, which gives your home an edge in a competitive market.
🔥 Features That Add the Most Value
Not all pools are created equal. Some features drive more value than others, especially if they contribute to functionality, aesthetics, and safety.
High-Value Gunite Pool Features:
LED lighting systems for ambiance and nighttime use
Fire features (fire bowls, outdoor fireplaces) for year-round appeal
Tanning ledges and built-in seating for family-friendly design
Waterfalls and fountains for visual and auditory appeal
Energy-efficient pool equipment for lower operating costs
Automation systems (app-controlled lights, temperature, filters)
🧱 Hardscape elements like patios, pergolas, and outdoor kitchens can boost value even more when paired with a gunite pool.
💡 Appeal to Home Buyers with a Gunite Pool
Today’s buyers often see pools as a lifestyle upgrade, especially post-pandemic when more families value outdoor living and entertaining space.
A gunite pool:
Adds curb appeal and backyard elegance
Creates a private staycation spot
Make your listing stand out online with professional photos
Signals a premium, well-maintained home
Buyers with children, entertainers, and luxury-seekers are particularly drawn to homes with move-in-ready, high-quality pools, giving you an edge in both pricing and speed of sale.
💸 What About Costs? Balancing Value vs. Expense
Yes, installing a gunite pool is a significant upfront investment—typically ranging from $60,000 to $110,000+ depending on features and finishes. However, the lifetime value can far exceed the cost if the pool is:
Properly maintained
Updated with efficient systems
Designed to match your home’s style and layout
Part of a larger outdoor living area (not an afterthought)
🌿 A gunite pool doesn’t just increase value—it enhances your lifestyle while you live in the home, creating memories and enjoyment before it ever pays off at resale.
🧼 Tips to Maximize Property Value with Your Gunite Pool
To get the best ROI when it’s time to sell, follow these best practices:
Maintain it regularly – Clean, test, and balance water chemistry
Upgrade when needed – Replace old equipment with energy-efficient models
Refresh the finish – Resurface the pool every 10–20 years as needed
Stage the pool area – Add furniture, lighting, and fresh landscaping before listing your home
Hire a professional photographer – Showcase the pool in marketing materials
Remember: A beautiful pool that feels like part of the home, not just a bonus, is what today’s buyers are looking for.
🏊♂️ Let Harpeth Valley Hardscape Boost Your Property Value
At Harpeth Valley Hardscape, we specialize in designing and building custom gunite pools that enhance your home and elevate its value. Our team blends timeless craftsmanship with modern technology to ensure your pool is as functional as it is beautiful.
Whether you’re looking to build a new pool or renovate an existing one for resale, we can help you make smart choices that pay off.
📈 Want to increase your property value with a custom gunite pool?
Fill out the form below to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a more beautiful, valuable home.
