While the vast majority of homeowners choose to purchase a hot tub for their more immediate benefits—such as increased relaxation, improved mental and physical wellbeing, and a plethora of family fun and date night possibilities—there are certainly other, more monetary reasons that can favorably affect your decision.
When it comes time for you to sell your home, there is one question that is likely to cross your mind . . .
Can a hot tub increase my home’s value?
In short: Yes! A hot tub or swim spa can absolutely bump up your asking price. Like with all features of a home, however, the exact amount it adds can vary greatly. If you’re looking for a precise figure, you’ll need to consult a professional appraiser or real estate agent in your area.
As a general rule though, the amount of resale value a hot tub can add to your home will depend on the following four factors.
1. Is it portable or permanent?
Like with pools, permanent in-ground hot tubs are generally going to net you more resale value. That said, they also cost much more to install and maintain, so the amount you get back may not always be worth it.
On the other hand, portable hot tubs (defined as those that can be removed without requiring any construction or remodeling) are typically considered personal property and the assumption is that they will be taken with the current homeowner. If for whatever reason you intend to leave yours behind, you will need to communicate that to the appraiser and real estate agent to ensure it gets factored into your home’s valuation.
2. Do you live in a hot or cool climate?
This is one area where hot tubs and pools differ greatly. Whereas pools in hotter climates are understandably in greater demand (the swimming season is longer and the need to cool off is much higher), hot tubs aren’t exactly a big hit in Arizona in August.
Hot tub owners in cooler climates, however, like our great state of Minnesota, can enjoy a good soak all year round. This means they’re seen as more of an everyday amenity rather than something that takes up valuable yard space nine months out of the year.
3. Is your neighborhood geared towards hot tub ownership?
Whether you like it or not, your neighbors and the community you live in play a large part in the value of your home. In this regard, hot tubs are no exception. For example, if you live in a neighborhood targeted towards families with children and those looking for long-term ownership, a hot tub can be seen as a great investment.
However, if your area is more geared towards those looking for more temporary or affordable housing, a hot tub may be seen as an unnecessary luxury and not worth the extra money (though they’d be dead wrong). Of course, if your house is the only one on the block without a hot tub, that will likely lower your home’s comparative value.
4. Did you buy a cheap or quality hot tub?
This one is probably the most obvious factor on the list, but like the old adage says, “you get out what you put in.” If you buy a cheap, poorly designed hot tub that will only last a few years, don’t be surprised if it actually lowers your home’s value.
If instead you do it right and choose a high-quality, long-lasting hot tub or swim spa from Cal Spas of Minnesota, that value won’t go unnoticed. (And the best part is, a premium hot tub doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg. Check out our amazing “State Fair” deals today!)
What can you do to maximize your hot tub’s value?
Even if you purchased an above ground, “portable” hot tub, there are still plenty of ways you can use your surroundings to convey a better sense of permanence and value. If you have the budget to spend, building a deck around your hot tub or adding a stunning gazebo or pergola overhead will make it look like an integral part of your yard. Some simpler options include creating natural stone steps or installing a privacy barrier for a more secluded experience.
For more great ideas, see our guide on 5 brilliant landscaping ideas to complement your outdoor hot tub.