Are pools a good investment in today’s Winnipeg Real Estate Market?

BY Scott Moore, Realtor | October 17, 2025

An increasingly common question we hear from homeowners is: “Does adding a pool actually increase the value of my home?”

Until recently, the answer was usually: not really. But today’s market, buyers mindset has changed.

Pools Are Making a Comeback in ROI

We’re seeing more and more buyers treating their primary residence as their “lifetime” home. Rather than investing in a cottage or vacation property, especially while their kids are still in school. Many families are choosing to invest in their current home, making it as enjoyable and functional as possible.

That shift has made backyard pools far more desirable than they were just a few years ago. In fact, for the first time in my 15+ years of selling homes in this area, pools are showing a solid return on investment.

Why the Shift?

This trend really gained momentum during the COVID era, when people were spending more time at home and re-evaluating what they wanted from their space.

At the same time, cottage prices in Manitoba and Ontario skyrocketed. While cottages are still within reach for some Manitobans, for others, they’re simply not feasible anymore. Entry-level lakefront properties within 2 hours of Winnipeg are now approaching $800,000.

Suddenly, investing $125,000 in a pool starts to make a lot more sense and feels like a smarter, more accessible vacation option.

This shift has also influenced the re-sale market. Over the past five years, buyer demand for homes with pools has steadily increased, and so has the perceived value.

Today’s buyers are often willing to pay a premium for a well-designed, low-maintenance pool that fits the lifestyle they want, especially when it complements the home and lot.

How Much Should You Spend?

If you're thinking about putting in a pool, it’s key to design a pool that matches the size and value of your house.

Overspending on a massive pool for a modest home can actually hurt your ROI. But a thoughtfully planned, well-integrated pool can absolutely boost your home’s value.

And don’t forget: Add 8–10% of your pool budget for landscaping.  Beautiful landscaping transforms a pool into a true backyard oasis and it’s one of the details that really appeals to buyers.

Still Debating?

If you’re wondering whether a pool is the right move for your home, I’d be happy to talk it through with you. Feel free to give me a call, or reach out any time. Let’s figure out the best way to make your home work harder for you, to enjoy it now, and have it profit for you in the future. But, if you are looking for a home with a pool, I have some great options hitting the market in the next few months, give me a call if you want details.