Should I remove my older swimming pool before trying to sell my home?

Good question, Elena, and here is the thing the thread above keeps stepping over: you have an above-ground pool, and that changes the answer quite a bit from the usual "pools are love-it-or-hate-it" debate. An above-ground pool is usually treated as personal property, not a permanent improvement, so it does not appraise or add value the way an in-ground pool can. Translation: you are not "removing value" by taking it out. What you actually have is a tired structure and a deck sitting on top of your real asset, which is the yard itself. And in San Diego, the yard is a big deal. Our climate sells outdoor living, and a large, open, usable backyard shows and photographs beautifully. A functional but older above-ground pool with a deck that needs boards, taking up most of the space, tends to read to buyers as a project they will have to pay to undo. That is the opposite of what you want them feeling when they walk out back. So my lean is yes, remove it, but be smart about the money: - Good news on cost. Pulling an above-ground pool and deck is comparatively cheap and quick, nothing like jackhammering out an in-ground pool. So the usual warning that "pool removal never pays you back" is really about in-ground pools and does not apply the same way to you. Your cost to reclaim the yard is modest. - Do not over-spend on what replaces it. You do not have to lay a big thirsty lawn. In our water reality here, a clean, low-maintenance usable yard, a simple patio or seating area with drought-tolerant landscaping, shows just as well and costs less to keep alive for showings. If you decide to keep it instead, two things are non-negotiable before you list: - Fix the deck. Broken boards are both a safety issue and an inspection red flag, and a deck at water height around a pool is a climb-in hazard buyers with kids will notice immediately. - Meet the safety rules. California's Swimming Pool Safety Act covers above-ground pools too, and expects proper drowning-prevention barriers. Buyers, their home inspector, and their insurance company will all look at this, and an above-ground pool can bump up a buyer's insurance or raise an attractive-nuisance worry. Make sure the safety features are in place. Either way, disclose it. California is a heavy-disclosure state, so you will note the pool, its condition, and any removal or permits on your seller disclosures. I am up in the L.A./South Bay area, so I will not pretend to know your San Diego neighborhood block by block, but I would be glad to connect you with a strong local San Diego agent from my network who can look at whether pools help or hurt in your specific pocket and price the reclaimed yard for you. Happy to take follow-ups here too. Zoltan

I would say how does it look and the presentation of the deck. I recently sold a home in Ventura County that had a pool that needed work and it sold in 2 weeks above asking and in all honesty no one had concerns about the pool. Location is probably still the most important as well as presentation My reccomendation would be if the pool is functional keep it.

Elena, if the pool and surrounding area in subpar shape, removing is the option. Keith Jean-Pierre Managing Principal The Dapper Agents Real Estate Operations in ALL 50 States

It depends on your local market and the condition of the pool. In many cases, an older above-ground pool can limit buyer interest, especially if it occupies most of the backyard or requires repairs. Before removing it, consult a local Realtor to determine what buyers in your area prefer. In some markets, repairing the deck and improving the landscaping may be enough, while in others, removing the pool and creating a larger, usable yard could provide a better return. **Juan Picos** REALTOR® | JohnHart Real Estate Serving Burbank, Glendale & Greater Los Angeles

I would not remove it automatically. If the pool is functional and the deck only needs minor repairs, it may be better to replace the bad boards, clean it up, and make it look well-maintained. But if the pool takes up most of the yard and looks like a future project for buyers, removing it and adding grass could make the backyard feel bigger and easier to maintain. The best choice depends on what buyers in your area prefer, so I would have a local agent look at it before spending the money.

Great question — and this really comes down to how buyers in your specific area are likely to view the backyard space. A pool can definitely be a selling feature when it’s clean, well-maintained, and fits the lifestyle of the neighborhood. Some buyers will see it as a bonus and an extension of outdoor living. But when it’s an older above-ground pool with a worn deck or visible repairs needed, it can sometimes have the opposite effect and make the yard feel like more maintenance than value. In situations like yours, where the pool and deck take up most of the backyard and need some work, some buyers may actually prefer a clean, open yard they can visualize for themselves. A simple grassy space often feels more flexible and low-maintenance, which can appeal to a wider group of buyers. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer here — it really depends on your price point, neighborhood, and what similar homes are doing in your area. That’s why it’s usually best to look at recent comparable sales before making a decision. That said, this isn’t a recommendation either way. It’s simply general guidance based on how buyers typically respond. It’s always a good idea to get a local real estate opinion in Ventura County before making any major changes so you can decide what will likely give you the best return. 🏡

It depends on your local market, but in many cases, I wouldn't recommend removing it unless it's in poor condition. If the pool is functional, cleaning it up and repairing the deck is usually more cost-effective than tearing everything out. If the pool and deck are taking up most of the yard or look dated, it's worth asking a local agent what buyers in your area prefer. Sometimes a clean, open backyard is more appealing than an older above ground pool.

I would first look at the overall condition and presentation of the pool and deck. If the pool is functional and the deck can be cleaned up with a few repairs, fresh stain, or replaced boards, it may be worth keeping rather than spending the money to remove everything. Buyers often respond more to how a space feels when they see it than to the fact that a pool is older. A pool that needs some work can still be appealing when the home is in a great location and shows well overall. Buyers may not be overly concerned about it if the rest of the property feels well maintained and the backyard still has a welcoming feel. Location will usually have a bigger impact on buyer interest than whether the pool is brand new. My recommendation would be to keep the pool if it is functional, but make sure the backyard feels clean, safe, and inviting

The answer is: it depends on your local market and the condition of the pool. If the above-ground pool and deck are well-maintained, they can be a nice feature for buyers who enjoy outdoor living. However, if the pool looks dated or the deck needs noticeable repairs, some buyers may see it as a project rather than a benefit. Before spending money to remove it, I’d recommend talking with a local Realtor. We can help you determine whether you’ll get a better return by making a few repairs, removing the pool, or simply pricing the home accordingly. Every home and neighborhood is different, so it’s important to look at what buyers in your area are expecting. A quick consultation can help you avoid spending money on improvements that may not increase your home’s value. If you’re thinking about selling, I’d be happy to take a look at your property and help you decide which option makes the most sense.

Hello Elena! It depends on your local market, but in many cases, removing an older above-ground pool can make your home more appealing. Especially if it's taking up most of the backyard and the deck needs repairs. A larger, open yard often attracts more buyers than a pool that may be seen as a maintenance project. Before making a major investment, compare the cost of removal with the potential increase in buyer interest and home value. A local market evaluation can help determine which option offers the best return. Thinking about selling? Let's evaluate your property and recommend the improvements that will help you attract more buyers and maximize your sale price. Diya Sarin | DRE 02095684 📞 818.799.7230 📧 [email protected] 🌐 diyasellsla.com IG: diyasellsla

I'm located near San Francisco and I would say are markets are very similar. In regard to a pool, most buyers are neutral with many thinking they are a nuisance and many thinking they are amazing so even if the pool is nice, it rarely adds to the value of the home. The flip side to that equation is a bad pool usually takes away value since most buyers will immediately consider the costs to either remove the pool or rehab and both options are costly. My initial thought is to just take it out since it's not a great pool to begin with and it's condition is certainly an issue.

Hi Elena, For an older above‑ground pool with a deck needing repairs and taking up most of the yard, removing it often results in a better first impression and broader buyer appeal. A simple, open yard helps buyers imagine their own lifestyle in the space. But the smartest move is to compare the cost of removal vs. the cost of repairs and how similar homes in your neighborhood are selling. A quick consultation with a local agent can help you avoid spending money where it won’t pay you back.

Usually, no if your pool is clean, safe, and in good condition, it's often better to leave it. Many buyers see a pool as a bonus. You might consider removing it if it's in very poor condition, needs expensive repairs, or takes up most of the yard. Before spending the money, compare recent sales of similar homes with and without pools to see what buyers in your neighborhood prefer. Ripsime Ter-Galstyan DRE 02374450

Maybe… but don’t grab the sledgehammer just yet. Pools are one of those features buyers either love or immediately start calculating chemicals, insurance, and how many weekends they’ll lose to skimming leaves. An older above-ground pool with a tired deck can definitely become more of an objection than a selling point, especially if it takes up most of the backyard. That said, removing it only makes sense if the yard will look better afterward—not like a pool used to live there and left in a hurry. I’d compare the cost of removal, deck repair, and new landscaping against what buyers in your area actually value. Sometimes a clean, open yard sells better. Sometimes a functional pool is still a bonus. The key is making sure whatever stays looks intentional, safe, and not like the backyard has a side quest.

An above-ground pool typically does not add significant value to a home, especially if it is older, takes up most of the backyard, or needs deck repairs. For some buyers, it may feel like extra maintenance rather than a benefit. If removing the pool would make the backyard feel larger, cleaner, and more usable, it may help the home show better. A simple open yard with grass or clean landscaping often appeals to more buyers than an older above-ground pool. Before making the decision, compare the cost of removal with the potential improvement in buyer perception. In many cases, presentation and usable outdoor space matter more than keeping an older pool.

In the San Diego market, I would be very cautious about tearing out a functional pool before speaking with a local real estate professional. Our climate allows for year-round outdoor living, and many buyers actually see a pool as a desirable feature. That said, an older above-ground pool is different from an in-ground pool. If the pool and deck are showing significant wear, buyers may view them as an expensive project rather than an asset. Before spending thousands on removal, I'd consider whether a smaller investment—such as replacing damaged deck boards, cleaning up the area, and improving the overall appearance—could make the space more appealing. I'd also think about your neighborhood: are you near a school and are there a lot of kids around? A young family may appreciate a pool. Is your neighborhood more geared towards empty nesters? They would probably appreciate the pool removed and more room for landscaping. From an ROI standpoint, removing the pool and installing new landscaping often doesn't return dollar-for-dollar what you spend. In a slower market, buyers tend to appreciate a well-maintained property, even if some features aren't exactly what they would choose themselves. My recommendation would be to get opinions from a few local San Diego agents who know your specific neighborhood. In some communities, buyers may value the extra yard space, while in others the pool could be a selling point. The right answer often depends on what competing homes in your area are offering.

I would not automatically tear it down without looking at your specific market, yard, and buyer pool first. Pools can be a benefit for some buyers, but an older above-ground pool with a large deck that needs repairs can also become an objection. The key question is whether the pool is adding value or making the yard feel smaller and more work-intensive. I would consider removing it if: The pool takes up most of the usable backyard space The deck looks worn or unsafe The pool is older and may raise maintenance concerns Families in your area tend to value grass, play space, pets, or entertaining space more The cost to make the pool and deck look great is not worth the return On the other hand, if pools are popular in your area and the deck can be repaired affordably, it may be better to clean it up, make the necessary safety repairs, and present it well. Before spending the money, I would ask a local agent to compare homes in your neighborhood with and without pools and look at buyer expectations in your price range. In many cases, a clean, open, low-maintenance yard appeals to a broader buyer pool than an older above-ground pool that feels like a project. My advice would be: if the pool and deck do not show well, either repair them properly or remove them. What you do not want is for buyers to walk into the backyard and immediately start calculating the cost and hassle of dealing with it.

In most cases, removing an older above-ground pool can help your home appeal to more buyers especially if it takes up a lot of yard space or needs repairs. Many buyers see older pools as maintenance and added cost. If the pool and deck aren’t in great condition, removing them and showcasing a clean, open yard can make the property feel larger and more usable. If you keep it, make sure it’s fully cleaned, repaired, and presented well. But overall, a simple, well-maintained yard usually attracts more buyers.

Hi Elena, I wouldn't make the decision to remove the pool until you have all the facts. Since you're in San Diego, pools are generally viewed more favorably than they are in many other parts of the country because they can be enjoyed most of the year. However, an older above-ground pool with a wrap-around deck that needs repairs is different from a newer in-ground pool. The biggest factor is how it presents to buyers. A clean, well-maintained pool is much more appealing than one that looks neglected. These recommendations come from my experience listing and selling homes in the Escondido area. Every property is unique, but I've found it's best to evaluate the costs before deciding whether to remove a pool. I suggest starting by having the pool evaluated by Pro Care Pool Service. Ask for the owner, Ryan. He can inspect the pool, let you know what it needs, and provide an estimate to get it back into great condition. You can find them here: Pro Care Pool Service Yelp Page Then ask Ryan if he has a trusted handyman or deck contractor he recommends to replace the damaged deck boards. You could also contact A & H Sullivan Construction for an estimate on repairing the deck: A & H Sullivan Construction Yelp Page. Once you have those estimates, compare them to the cost of removing the pool. Many homeowners are surprised to learn that demolition isn't just the cost of tearing it out. Depending on your city, you may need permits and inspections, along with demolition, disposal, grading, and new landscaping. The timeline can also be longer because of local permitting requirements. I can relate because I have an older pool that also needs maintenance and replastering. When I looked into my options, I found that restoring the pool was actually faster than going through the process of removing it. By the time I considered permits, inspections, and all the work required to close the pool properly, the total cost was about the same as updating it. Before spending thousands of dollars to remove something that may still be an asset, I'd encourage you to gather the numbers first. Repairing the pool and deck so they show well may cost no more or even less than removing everything. With estimates in hand, you can make the decision that's best for your property and your budget. The goal is to help you make the most informed decision for your property. If additional guidance is needed as you move forward, don't hesitate to reach out.