Will a Renovated Pool Increase Property Value in Brisbane?

I’ll never forget the moment I realised my once “luxurious” pool had turned into a leafy, faded relic from the 90s. The tiles were chipped, the filter groaned like a tired vacuum cleaner, and the pool lights flickered like a low-budget disco. When I finally decided to renovate, I wasn’t just thinking about aesthetics — I had one big question on my mind: will this actually increase my property’s value? After all, a pool renovation isn’t pocket change. But what I discovered surprised me — in Brisbane’s competitive housing market, a well-renovated pool can be a genuine game-changer. Let’s dive in (pun intended) and see how upgrading your pool could make your home sparkle for future buyers and add serious value to your property.

Table of Contents

1. Why Pools Are a Big Deal in Brisbane
2. Can a Renovated Pool Really Increase Property Value?
3. Factors That Influence the Value of a Renovated Pool
4. How Much Return on Investment Can You Expect?
5. The Design Impact: Style and First Impressions
6. Energy Efficiency and Low-Maintenance Appeal
7. The Lifestyle Factor: Selling the Dream
8. The Brisbane Property Market and Buyer Trends
9. Common Pool Renovation Mistakes That Hurt Value
10. Final Thoughts

Why Pools Are a Big Deal in Brisbane

If you’ve lived in Brisbane for more than a few summers, you know that a pool isn’t just a luxury — it’s practically a survival tool. Between scorching summer days and sticky subtropical nights, having a pool is a lifestyle choice that’s deeply ingrained in the local culture. Barbecues, pool parties, lazy Sunday floats — the pool is where Queenslanders unwind, entertain, and make memories.

In fact, Queensland has one of the highest rates of pool ownership in Australia. According to property data, roughly 1 in 5 Brisbane homes has a swimming pool — and those that don’t often wish they did. That’s why pool features can play such a huge role in home value, especially when buyers are comparing properties.

But here’s the kicker: not all pools are created equal. A cracked, outdated, or poorly maintained pool can actually hurt your property’s appeal, while a freshly renovated one can make buyers swoon.

Can a Renovated Pool Really Increase Property Value?

In short: yes — absolutely! A well-renovated pool can add significant value to your home, especially in Brisbane’s warm climate where outdoor living reigns supreme. But the key is in the word well.

Real estate agents across Brisbane consistently report that homes with modern, functional pools attract more interest and often sell faster than those without one. A renovated pool can increase perceived property value by as much as 5% to 15% depending on the suburb, the quality of the renovation, and how well it complements the rest of your outdoor space.

Buyers aren’t just looking for a pool — they’re looking for an experience. A renovated pool signals that your home has been well cared for, that it’s ready for entertaining, and that it’s built for the Queensland lifestyle. It’s the difference between a tired, high-maintenance backyard and a sleek resort-style escape.

Factors That Influence the Value of a Renovated Pool

Of course, not every renovation automatically boosts your home’s value. Several factors determine how much your upgraded pool will actually add to your property’s worth:

• Location: In high-demand suburbs like Ascot, Bulimba, or Paddington, buyers expect premium outdoor spaces, so a well-renovated pool carries extra weight.
• Quality of Work: Shoddy finishes or DIY fixes can actually hurt resale value — always go with professionals like Courtyard Pools who deliver top-quality results.
• Design Consistency: The pool should complement your home’s architecture and landscaping — not clash with it.
• Functionality: Modern features like LED lighting, energy-efficient pumps, and smart filtration systems appeal to today’s buyers.
• Condition of Surrounding Area: Don’t forget about the pool deck, paving, and landscaping — they complete the overall impression.

A renovated pool adds the most value when it enhances the property’s aesthetics, improves functionality, and creates a cohesive outdoor living space that feels effortless to maintain.

How Much Return on Investment Can You Expect?

Let’s talk numbers. While every renovation project is different, the average cost of renovating a pool in Brisbane ranges between $7,000 and $25,000 depending on the size and extent of work. But the potential return can be impressive.

Real estate studies suggest that a renovated pool can add anywhere from $30,000 to $100,000+ to the resale value of a well-located home, especially in family-oriented or high-end markets. That’s a strong ROI — particularly when you consider that buyers are often willing to pay a premium for move-in-ready homes where they don’t have to handle costly repairs themselves.

In other words, the right pool renovation doesn’t just pay for itself — it can make your property stand out in a crowded market, attract more buyers, and even trigger bidding wars among those dreaming of a perfect Brisbane summer backyard.

The Design Impact: Style and First Impressions

You know that old saying, “you never get a second chance to make a first impression”? Well, the same goes for your pool. The visual appeal of your outdoor space can make or break a potential sale.

When buyers walk through a property, their eyes are instantly drawn to the backyard. A sparkling, modern pool framed by neat paving and lush greenery gives the impression of luxury and relaxation. Meanwhile, cracked tiles, faded finishes, or murky water can make buyers think, “How much will it cost to fix this?” — and that’s not the vibe you want.

Popular Renovation Trends That Boost Value:

• Minimalist designs: Clean lines, pale stone, and neutral tones are timeless.
• Natural finishes: Pebblecrete, sandstone, and glass fencing create a high-end, cohesive look.
• Lighting upgrades: LED or colour-changing lights add ambiance and safety.
• Integrated landscaping: Surround your pool with tropical plants, decking, or even an outdoor kitchen for maximum appeal.

Remember, you’re not just renovating a pool — you’re designing a lifestyle that buyers can instantly picture themselves enjoying.

Energy Efficiency and Low-Maintenance Appeal

Today’s buyers are smarter, greener, and busier than ever. They’re drawn to features that make homeownership easier and more eco-friendly. A renovated pool that incorporates energy-efficient and low-maintenance technology will always score higher in the value stakes.

Here are some features that make a big impact:

• Energy-efficient pumps and filters: Reduce electricity use and operating costs.
• Solar heating systems: Extend swimming season without hefty energy bills.
• Automated cleaning systems: Keep water crystal-clear with minimal effort.
• LED lighting: Long-lasting, stylish, and economical.
• Smart pool controls: Manage everything from your phone — lighting, temperature, and cleaning cycles.

These upgrades aren’t just convenient — they make your pool more sustainable and desirable. In fact, energy-efficient pools are becoming a strong selling point for eco-conscious Brisbane buyers.

The Lifestyle Factor: Selling the Dream

Here’s the real secret to adding value with a pool renovation — it’s not just about dollars and tiles. It’s about emotion. A beautifully renovated pool sells an experience, a lifestyle, a dream. It tells potential buyers, “this is where your family will spend summer weekends,” or “this is where you’ll host unforgettable parties.”

In Brisbane’s lifestyle-driven market, emotional connection sells homes faster than almost anything else. People don’t just want a house — they want a place that feels like a retreat. A renovated pool creates that feeling instantly.

Even if you’re not planning to sell immediately, investing in your pool now enhances your own lifestyle in the meantime — and positions your property perfectly for the future.

The Brisbane Property Market and Buyer Trends

Let’s zoom out for a moment. Brisbane’s property market has been heating up, with strong buyer demand and steady price growth in recent years. Outdoor living features — especially pools — have become increasingly important to buyers post-2020, as more people spend time at home.

Buyers in Brisbane are prioritising properties that offer lifestyle, comfort, and entertainment value. Families, in particular, see a well-maintained pool as both a luxury and a necessity. In suburbs like Carindale, Camp Hill, and The Gap, renovated pools are not just a “nice-to-have” — they’re a major selling feature that can set a property apart from others in the same price range.

As Brisbane continues to grow and attract interstate buyers seeking the Queensland lifestyle, having a modern, well-presented pool gives your home a competitive advantage in any market condition.

Common Pool Renovation Mistakes That Hurt Value

Before you start daydreaming about your pool’s new look, it’s important to avoid a few pitfalls that can actually decrease your property’s value instead of increasing it. Here are the most common mistakes homeowners make:

• Overcapitalising: Spending $50,000 on a renovation for a property that only gains $20,000 in value isn’t a smart move. Match your renovation scale to your suburb’s price bracket.
• Cutting corners on quality: Cheap finishes, DIY jobs, or unlicensed contractors can lead to problems down the road — and savvy buyers will notice.
• Neglecting safety compliance: A non-compliant pool fence or outdated safety gate can stall a sale or cost you fines.
• Ignoring the surroundings: A beautiful pool surrounded by old paving or scraggly lawns feels incomplete. Don’t skip the landscaping.
• Failing to maintain it after renovation: A newly renovated pool still needs care to keep it looking its best for inspections or open homes.

A smart renovation balances aesthetics, practicality, and compliance. That’s why it pays to work with experienced professionals who understand both pool design and property value dynamics.

Final Thoughts

So, will a renovated pool increase property value in Brisbane? The answer is a resounding yes — when it’s done right. A well-planned renovation can transform your backyard into a resort-style oasis, attract more buyers, and boost your home’s appeal and market value.

The key lies in thoughtful design, high-quality workmanship, and modern features that align with today’s lifestyle expectations. Whether you’re looking to sell soon or simply future-proof your investment, upgrading your pool is one of the smartest ways to add lasting value to your property.

Ready to make a splash? Courtyard Pools are Brisbane’s pool renovation experts, specialising in custom designs, energy-efficient upgrades, and premium finishes. Their team combines craftsmanship with creativity to deliver breathtaking results that not only look stunning but enhance your home’s overall worth.

Because a renovated pool isn’t just an upgrade — it’s an investment in your lifestyle, your property, and your future.