Does a Fibreglass Pool Increase Property Value? A Homeowner’s Guide

The Real Estate Appeal of Swimming Pools in Australia

Thinking about installing a pool and wondering if it’ll actually boost your home’s value? It’s a fair question - and one that deserves a straight answer.

At Complete Fibreglass Pool Kits, we’ve worked with over 1,000 Aussie homeowners who weren’t just chasing a lifestyle upgrade. They wanted to know if a swimming pool would make their home more valuable, easier to sell, or both - and whether it was worth the cost.

In this blog, we unpack what the research says about pools and property value across Australia. Using trusted data from sources like realestate.com.au and Roy Morgan, we’ll explore where pools add the most value, how different factors influence resale appeal, and which pool types offer the strongest returns for future buyers.

Where Pools Are In The Highest Demand

According to Roy Morgan’s 2023 data, pool ownership is strongest in regions with warmer climates - but interest in pools isn’t limited to just the sunshine states.

These numbers reflect how ingrained pools are in the Australian lifestyle, especially in places with long summers and outdoor-focused living. But even in cooler cities like Melbourne or Adelaide, pools are still seen as a desirable feature - especially when they’re designed for low maintenance and year-round usability.

For buyers in these areas, it’s not just about beating the heat - it’s about entertaining, creating a backyard retreat, and making life at home feel more relaxed and enjoyable.

Why Pools Appeal to Today’s Buyers

For many buyers, a pool isn’t just a luxury - it’s a lifestyle feature. It represents relaxation, fun, family time, awesome memories and entertaining at home, all rolled into one.

Here’s why pools continue to be one of the most sought-after features in the Aussie property market:

• Outdoor Lifestyle Appeal – A well-designed pool turns the backyard into a retreat, perfect for BBQs, birthdays, or just unwinding after work

• Visual Impact – Pools instantly lift the look of a home and make listings stand out in competitive markets

• Health & Fitness Benefits – With more Aussies focused on wellness at home, swimming and water-based exercise are seen as big pluses

• Year-Round Use – With heating options and smart lighting, pools are no longer seen as “summer-only” features in many parts of the country.

But while pools can tick all the right lifestyle boxes, their resale impact often comes down to maintenance, presentation, and whether the design suits the home and yard. That’s where the type of pool—and how well it’s maintained - starts to matter.

How Much Value Can a Pool Add to Your Home?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer but the right pool, in the right setting, can boost a home’s value by $10,000 to $100,000, according to realestate.com.au.

A pool’s impact on resale depends on more than just where you live. It also comes down to:

• How well the pool integrates with the rest of the backyard

• Its condition and age - buyers will factor in repair or replacement costs

• The ongoing maintenance required by the type of pool

• Whether it meets local buyer expectations.

For example, older pools - especially concrete - may need resurfacing or equipment upgrades before sale. Vinyl liners often require replacement every 5–10 years, which some buyers may see as a future cost. Pools that look tired, have cracked surrounds, or rely on outdated equipment can make buyers hesitate, or lower their offer.

On the other hand, a clean, modern-looking pool with newer equipment is often seen as a lifestyle bonus, especially when it’s easy to maintain.

Roy Morgan’s 2023 research shows that pool ownership is strongest in warmer states like QLD, WA and NSW - but even in cooler markets, buyers respond well when a pool is designed, presented, and maintained with resale in mind.

The bottom line? A well-presented pool - regardless of type - can absolutely strengthen your property’s market appeal, but maintenance, condition and buyer confidence all play a role.

→ Want a detailed breakdown of DIY fibreglass pool pricing? See this guide on what a fibreglass pool really costs.

How Pool Type Can Affect Resale Appeal

Pools of all types can increase property value - but some may be easier to maintain, present better to buyers, or require fewer upgrades before sale.

Here’s a side-by-side look at how each major pool type performs when it comes to buyer appeal and resale factors:

Concrete Pools

• Highly customisable in shape and finish

• Strong and durable when maintained

• Requires resurfacing every 10–15 years

• Higher maintenance costs (more chemicals, surface care)

• Installation can take several months

• Can increase value - but buyers may factor in future upkeep

• Generally have structural warranties of 7 years however premium suppliers offer up to 10 years.

Vinyl Liner Pools

• Lowest initial installation cost

• Liner needs replacing every 5–10 years

• Less durable long-term; prone to tears or punctures

• May be seen as a shorter-term option by buyers

• Suitable for cost-sensitive installs, but may offer lower resale appeal

• Generally have structural warranties of 5 years however premium suppliers offer up to 10 years.

Fibreglass Pools (Where Fibreglass Stands Out)

• Smooth, non-porous surface resists algae and staining

• Low chemical use and minimal cleaning

• Fast installation—often 7–10 days

• No resurfacing required

• Retains heat well, great for energy efficiency

• Modern designs and ease of upkeep often make them more attractive to resale buyers

• Generally have structural warranties of 25 years however premium suppliers offer up to 35 years.

A well-kept pool of any type can add value. But if you’re thinking ahead to resale - or simply want to minimise upkeep - fibreglass is often seen as the most buyer-friendly option thanks to its durability, ease of maintenance and long-term cost advantages.

Smart Ways to Maximise Pool Value

No matter what type of pool you install, certain features and upgrades can make a big difference when it comes to resale appeal. The goal isn’t just to impress buyers - it’s to show that the pool is easy to enjoy, safe to use, and affordable to maintain.

1. Choose the Right Size and Location

A pool should complement the backyard, not take over the whole block. If buyers walk into a yard and can’t imagine where the BBQ or trampoline would go, you may have gone too big.

2. Create an Entertaining-Friendly Space

Buyers are drawn to homes that feel liveable, not just luxurious. Adding features like a deck, shaded seating, outdoor shower, or built-in BBQ area can turn the backyard into a retreat buyers will connect with.

3. Invest in Energy-Efficient, Low-Maintenance Equipment

Most buyers aren’t keen on the idea of weekend battles with the pool pump. Modern features like, energy-saving pumps, LED lights, and self-cleaning systems give them confidence that the pool won’t be a money pit.

4. Ensure Your Pool Is Safe and Fully Compliant

Non-compliant pools can cause major headaches for buyers. Make sure fencing meets safety standards, gates are self-closing, and signage is in place. The more “move-in ready” the setup feels, the more value it holds.

→ Planning ahead? Here are some professional tips for a flawless installation.

What Can Detract from Value?

Buyers are cautious about anything that looks like hard work or hidden costs. Here are some common value-killers:

• Worn-out equipment – Old pumps, chlorinators or filters can make buyers think “replacement cost” and “high power bills” straight away

• Visible wear and tear – Cracked coping pavers, faded and patched liners, cracks in the concrete pool surface or stained concrete can signal long-term neglect

• Overly large pools – If the pool eats the entire backyard, it may limit appeal to families or entertainers

• Outdated or unsafe fencing – Non-compliance can lead to extra cost and delays during settlement

• Complex maintenance requirements – Pools that need high chemical use or constant attention may scare off buyers looking for low-fuss living.

When you design your pool with long-term appeal in mind, not just short-term satisfaction, you’re more likely to protect and even increase your property’s value.

Why Fibreglass Pools Are the Best Investment

If you're adding a pool to increase property value, fibreglass pools are often the smartest choice. Compared to concrete or vinyl, they offer low maintenance, fast installation, and long-term durability, making them more attractive to buyers.

Fibreglass Pools Are Easier & Cheaper to Maintain

One of the biggest selling points of fibreglass pools is their low upkeep costs. Their smooth, non-porous surface prevents algae growth, reducing the need for scrubbing and chemicals. Unlike concrete pools, which require resurfacing every 10–15 years, a fibreglass pool that’s properly maintained can look great for decades—an edge when it comes time to sell.

Faster Installation = Better Return on Investment

A fibreglass pool can be installed in as little as 7–10 days, whereas a concrete pool can take 3–6 months. That shorter turnaround means less disruption—and a faster path to resale readiness.

Built to Last & Energy Efficient

Fibreglass pools flex with ground movement, reducing the risk of cracking. They also retain heat better than concrete, helping reduce long-term energy bills.

So, Is a Pool a Smart Investment?

In the right setting, a pool can absolutely be a smart investment—both in lifestyle and property value.

Realestate.com.au suggests pools can increase the value of your home by up to $100,000, depending on the market and condition. In warmer states like QLD, WA and NSW, homes with pools generally see a higher return on your investment.

And when you consider the average fibreglass pool cost ranges from $30,000 to $60,000, the return on investment becomes even clearer - especially when compared to a concrete pool which averages between $50,000 and $100,000 to install.

Should You Install a Pool to Boost Property Value?

Whether you're thinking about resale, lifestyle, or both, a pool can add serious appeal and value to your home when done right.

Focus on a pool that:

• Fits your yard

• Has the right balance between adding value and not overcapitalising (spending more than you get back in increased value)

• Keeps long-term costs low

• Offers lifestyle perks without becoming a burden

→ Ready to start planning? Here’s how to get your DIY fibreglass pool off the ground.