As sellers prepare to get their homes in tiptop condition to list for the spring season, there are several factors to consider. A hot tub is an accessory that can make or break the first impression of a home.
Some people love hot tubs, others can't remember the last time they took a soak in one. If you own a hot tub or Jacuzzi, there are several factors to consider to ensure you're not turning off a potential buyer. A hot tub won't hurt a home's resale value; however, it may not add more to it. The condition of your hot tub will determine whether or not you should keep it or discard it before your first open house.
Real estate agents have firm opinions to help guide clients through the process. "If the hot tub is in working condition, I always make sure it’s cleaned and serviced before listing the home," Andrew Fortune, real estate agent and brokerage owner at Great Colorado Homes, tells Realtor.com®. "This helps avoid any surprises during the inspection, where an issue could be flagged and potentially complicate the sale."
Resale value with a hot tub
Hot tubs come in all shapes and sizes. They also come in various price ranges. Costco sells a $2,999 hot tub that seats six people, while premium hot tubs starting at $18,999 from Strong Spas feature towel racks, foldaway steps, and even automated covers.
"Hot tubs can add value if they’re modern and well-maintained, especially in upscale or vacation markets where buyers see them as a luxury," Michelle Himden, CEO of Cityami, tells Realtor.com. "But an old or broken one can hurt resale. Buyers dread repair costs or removal hassles. For outdated models, I often suggest sellers remove them to avoid turning buyers off."
"When I was recently working with clients looking at homes outside of the city, many love the idea of a hot tub, but not necessarily to use a tub that's been in place for some time," says Nikki Beauchamp, associate broker at Sotheby's International Realty in New York City. "I think it's absolutely situational."
What buyers will want to know
Be prepared to have all the information on your hot tub handy for your real estate agent to answer any inquiries from potential buyers. They might be interested in knowing the model year, where you bought it, and how often you have it serviced.
There are added costs a buyer will consider if they purchase a home with a hot tub. The cost to repair a hot tub ranges from $175 to $500, with replacement parts costing up to $1,000, according to HomeAdvisor. Sealing a small crack may cost $100, but replacing a 2-speed water pump could run up to $1,200.
This cost depends on the type of repair, parts, labor, and any electrical issues. Climate and where your hot tub is located will affect the longevity. "Hot tubs are not a good investment for resale. They are only for fun," says Fortune. "We rarely ever have clients ask for a home with a hot tub. Since it's not a highly requested item when searching for a home, it doesn't carry much value in the home sale. Appraisers will not add value because the property has a hot tub."
Bottom line: If your hot tub isn't going to make a "wow" first impression, it's better to get rid of it so that you won't give a buyer any reason to pass on your home. Source
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