Traditionally, in the UK, the warmer months are the best time to sell a house. Not only is demand at its peak during the sunnier months, but the season also enables you to show off your property and all its features to the best effect. And nowhere is this more important than if your house comes with a lovely garden and an outdoor swimming pool.

As a pool owner, you know that this luxury feature is a key selling point for your home. Potential buyers who are looking for a house with a pool generally have rather high levels of discernment, and it is up to you to ensure that your house offers the high-end values they are looking for.   

With this in mind, here are our top tips on how to present your property, and your outdoor pool, for sale. 

Open up the pool 

Your pool should always look inviting and enticing. Whether you have an in-ground, above-ground, or infinity pool in your garden, get the covers off and open it up so everyone can see. The first impression of your garden and outdoor amenities must be ‘wow’ inducing. Whether on estate agent photos or on actual viewings, now is the time to show off your home in all its glory. 

At the beginning of pool season, make an extra effort to get the pool area in ship shape. Fix any problems, cracks or leaks and perhaps have a professional swimming pool clean and valet carried out so that your pool is fully restored and looking ready to dive into. The aim is to help prospective buyers visualise how fantastic a pool in the garden can look and, crucially, picture themselves in it. 

Dress the garden  

It is worth bearing in mind that the outdoor setting for your pool is as important as the pool itself. With that in mind, review the surrounding garden area and invest in maintenance to deal with overgrown hedges and trees that might block the light and make the area look untidy. A manicured lawn is a great backdrop for a swimming pool. In fact, some targeted lawn care treatments or a ‘lawn makeover’ may be money wisely spent and an investment that keeps on giving all throughout the summer. 

Add interest in the garden with colour and texture. For a quick fix, ready-potted plants and flowers can be sporadically placed around the area in attractive tubs and planters. You can make a bigger impact with container gardening by grouping each species in threes. Plant climbers such as fragrant honeysuckle or clematis to hide functional pool maintenance sheds or unsightly garage walls. 

Patios, decking and fencing 

Spruce up your poolside decking and patio areas to get them gleaming. Pressure washing is an easy way to remove not only stains but also algae and lichen, getting rid of any slipperiness and bringing surfaces back to life. Add two layers of a good wood stain to protect wooden surfaces near the water’s edge. 

Invest in new sun loungers, parasols or a sun sail to style the pool area appropriately, evoking that holiday atmosphere. Of course, just as with plant pots, you can take your garden furniture with you when you move, so no money has been wasted. 

Pool safety will be of paramount concern for homebuyers with children. If necessary, repair your pool cover, fencing and safety gates including handles and latches, making sure that everything is toddler-proof. 

Finishing touches 

What else can you do to make your garden and outdoor pool stand out from the crowd? One insider tip is to use temporary pool dye which enhances blue tones to make your swimming pool look even more inviting. It is completely safe to use and a single dose will last up to three days.   

Should you conduct any property viewings in the evening, think about adding atmospheric lighting to transform the space. External PIR sensor light fittings come in all shapes and styles, solar lights are relatively inexpensive to buy, and garden fairy lights and uplighters can be utilised wherever needed to create a magical ambience. 

Properties with swimming pools 

Leamington Spa, Warwickshire, 12 bedrooms

This substantial residence holds everything you would expect and more including five reception rooms, a gym, a separate home office, and a two-bedroom cottage. Set in 8.6 acres of wonderful, landscaped gardens and grounds there is an outdoor pool, refurbished tennis court, stables, a yard, and a paddock. 

Tenby, Pembrokeshire, 4 bedrooms

This versatile home, majestic in its elevated position, with unparalleled views over the landscape and seascape of Tenby has style and elegance in 'spades'. The design of the stunning 'Huf Haus' maximises the natural light throughout this unique home, whilst outdoors you will find landscaped grounds, terraces, and a beautiful swimming pool with panoramic views. 
 

Gerrards Cross, Buckinghamshire, 8 bedrooms

Cornerwood is a beautiful family home benefitting from spacious and flowing accommodation over three floors located on Gerrard Cross’ most sought-after road. The property boasts extensive grounds with an outdoor pool as well as a self-contained flat, a mini football pitch and a wrap-around terrace with views over the garden. 

Ridgeway, Essex, 5 bedrooms 

With just under half an acre of landscaped gardens on one of the most desired positions within the prestigious and exclusive Hutton Mount estate, sits this beautiful Tudor-style detached family home designed by renowned architect Bospidnick in the 1930s. The property is arranged over three floors and further benefits from a glorious south-facing garden with a patio seating area, a summer house, and a heated outdoor pool. 

Contact us

Are you looking to move this summer? Contact your local Fine & Country agent today to begin your journey.