If buying a home isn’t exciting by itself, buying one with a pool makes it undeniably so. There’s roughly one pool for every 31 people in the U.S., which means pools are relatively special features that need careful thinking.
Franklin has become a popular market for homes with pools. The city’s warm climate and outdoor lifestyle make pools incredibly appealing to buyers. Before signing a contract, buyers should understand key facts about Franklin’s market, pool maintenance, and costs.
Franklin’s Pool Home Market
Franklin’s housing market has strong buyer demand and plenty of inventory. Homes featuring pools are priced approximately 54% higher than similar homes without pools. This makes the pool a major value driver.
Top neighborhoods include Westhaven, Fieldstone Farms, West Harpeth, and McKay’s Mill. These are all known for well-maintained pool properties and family-friendly living.
How Do Pools Affect Property Value?
Across Tennessee, a well-kept pool can raise a property’s value by up to 7%. However, this increase depends on condition, location, and neighborhood quality. In Franklin, pools add value mainly because buyers expect cool, outdoor entertainment spaces in the city’s warm climate.
However, today’s buyers are smarter and more cautious than ever before. Overpriced pool homes may sit on the market for long periods without selling. Neglected pools can lower the value and delay sales. Buyers should treat pools as long-term investments that require regular upkeep and financial planning.
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The Real Cost of Pool Ownership
Owning a pool means ongoing expenses beyond the purchase price. Pools need regular cleaning, chemical treatments, equipment repairs, and regular water maintenance throughout the year. Tennessee’s changing seasons mean pools require winterization to protect plumbing and equipment from freeze damage.
Buyers should:
- Schedule a professional pool inspection for pumps, filters, and heaters.
- Ask for maintenance records to assess long-term costs.
- Budget for annual maintenance, typically $1,000–$4,000.
A recently renovated pool usually costs less to maintain than an older one that may require expensive repairs.
Insurance and Legal Responsibilities
Pool ownership increases liability risks, so homeowners need broader insurance coverage.
- In-ground pools are listed as permanent structures and may raise premiums.
- Above-ground pools can cost less to insure, but require proper documentation.
Buyers should confirm coverage limits and ask insurers about safety discounts for fencing, covers, and alarms. Local laws in Franklin require fenced perimeters and safety measures around pools. Meeting these standards protects homeowners and reduces legal risk.
Choosing the Right Neighborhood
Many of Franklin’s planned and gated communities feature pools as standard amenities. Buyers should review HOA rules about pool type, design, and usage hours before buying.
When selecting a neighborhood, consider:
- Proximity to schools, parks, and shopping.
- HOA policies on private pools.
- The community’s overall look and maintenance standards.
Finding garage homes or patio homes for sale in Franklin neighborhoods where pools are common holds better resale value. Buyers should also ensure the pool fits their lifestyle—a rarely used pool quickly becomes a costly feature instead of an asset.
The Pool Home Buying Process
The process for buying pool homes in Franklin mirrors a standard home purchase with a few key additions:
- Research listings with updated market data.
- Request pool inspections separate from home inspections.
- Review maintenance records for insights into long-term costs.
- Verify compliance with local safety and fencing codes.
This due diligence helps buyers avoid surprise repairs and legal issues after closing.
Smart Tips for Pool Home Buyers
Successful pool home buyers use specific strategies to protect themselves and maximize value:
- Get insurance quotes early to account for higher premiums.
- Budget for upkeep like cleaning, chemicals, and seasonal servicing.
- Invest in safety upgrades such as covers, fencing, and alarms.
- Choose eco-friendly equipment—solar heaters and energy-efficient pumps can lower utility bills.
- Check local water-use regulations before filling or refilling pools.
- Buy in pool-friendly neighborhoods to protect resale value.
- Research local property tax relief programs.
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Seasonal Maintenance and Safety Measures
Tennessee’s seasons affect how pools are maintained:
- Summer: Frequent cleaning and water balance checks keep water safe.
- Fall/Winter: Proper winterization prevents freeze damage.
Installing durable covers and fencing minimizes accidents, reduces chemical use, and extends pool life. Routine professional maintenance prevents small issues from becoming costly problems.
Should I Buy a Home With a Pool in Franklin in 2025?
Buying a home with a pool in Franklin in 2025 offers both luxury and lifestyle benefits, but it also demands responsibility. Buyers should weigh market trends, insurance needs, maintenance costs, and neighborhood factors before purchasing.
Franklin’s strong pool home market rewards informed buyers who plan properly. With the right property and proper care, a pool can become one of the most enjoyable and valuable features of a Franklin home.