If you’re a St. Petersburg home buyer or homeowner thinking about ways to increase your home’s value, here’s one word to remember: pool. Partnering with a custom pool builder in St. Petersburg can help you increase the value of your home investment. National listing data shows homes with pools command a sizable “pool premium.” As of April 2025, home listings with a pool were priced about 54% higher than homes without (pool homes are also typically larger, which contributes to the gap). Even as the pandemic frenzy has cooled, pool demand remains strong, according to industry experts like Realtor.com.
In warm sunny climates like Pinellas County, pools see particularly strong interest. In fact, 2025 set a record share of listings with pools nationally. According to FloridaRealtors.com, pool popularity continues to grow in coastal areas, where inventory levels have picked up more significantly than in their cooler counterparts. And locally, Sunshine City lives up to its name: St. Pete averages around 361 sunny days a year, which is a huge advantage for year-round outdoor living and pool usage.
Why the Right Pool Design Matters: Tips From a Custom Pool Builder in Pinellas County
At WinWay Pools, we work with St. Petersburg home buyers and homeowners to get the best value for their custom pool investment, from choosing exceptional and durable pool materials to designing unique water features and add-ons.
It’s important to partner with a reputable pool builder who can design a custom pool that will stand the test of time. A dated or poorly maintained pool can work against you. But a thoughtfully designed, low-maintenance, modern pool elevates curb appeal and listing photos — and helps your home stand out from other homes in the area.
Here are just a few features that can increase your pool value (and your home’s value).
- Infinity edges or perimeter overflows amplify water views and create a high-end, “resort” feel.
- Integrated spas and sun shelves (tanning ledges) add everyday usability for families and entertainers alike.
- Glass tile and programmable LED lighting give that “wow” factor day and night.
- Smart controls (pump, lights, spa) simplify ownership. Home buyers expect this level of convenience.
Bottom line: Design for beauty and livability. It’s a combination that tends to show up in higher list prices in pool-forward markets, according to industry experts.
Why This Matters Even More in St. Pete
With near year-round sunshine, home buyers in St. Petersburg heavily prioritize outdoor features such as custom pools. And this preference impacts each home’s bottom line when it’s time to sell.
For example:
- In Florida’s St. Petersburg and Tampa area, this “pool premium” means the average pool-equipped home lists for $599,000, versus $389,000 for those without, according to local real estate data.
- The price per square foot is also higher for properties with pools, at $247/sq ft compared to $204/sq ft for homes without this amenity.
- Additionally, Saint Petersburg’s short-term rental (STR) market data shows that properties with amenities like pools command much higher average daily rates (ADR) and occupancy. Top-performing luxury rentals in St. Pete with superior outdoor spaces — especially with pools — easily achieve $5,261+ per month for top 10% listings, with high occupancy rates, according to Airbnb experts.
And as we noted earlier, pools remain popular across Pinellas County. The share of for-sale homes with pools is at an all-time high, underscoring buyer expectations in climates like ours. If your property lacks a pool, or your existing pool needs a facelift, you may be leaving value (and buyer interest) on the table.
Smart, Custom Pool Features That St. Pete Buyers Love
If you’re building a new home in St. Pete or upgrading by investing in a custom luxury pool, it’s important to keep value in mind. This means investing in features that home buyers love.
Think aesthetically and practically, such as:
- Energy-efficient equipment and automation, such as variable-speed pumps and smart cleaning/maintenance scheduling
- Saltwater or easy-care sanitation to reduce chemical handling
- Safety-forward design (fencing, alarms) that supports a smooth sale process
- Cohesive aesthetics matching your home’s style (modern lines for contemporary homes; timeless materials for traditional architecture)
Tip: While national data shows a strong pool premium, it reflects average listing prices, and pool homes are often larger. Value still varies by neighborhood norms, climate, and quality of execution — which is exactly why custom pools designed for St. Pete’s tastes can pay off.
Planning to Sell? Keep These Pointers in Mind
There are several factors to keep in mind when considering your home’s long-term value, including what type of custom pool you want to build for your St. Petersburg home. Here are some pointers that can help you choose the right pool for your home and your lifestyle:
- Match your home: A sleek, ultra-modern pool can look out of place next to a classic bungalow; keep materials and lines cohesive.
- Minimize maintenance friction: Buyers favor energy-efficient gear and simple care routines.
- Keep it photo-ready: Think clean water, clean lines, and tidy landscaping. Your home’s listing photos will thank you.
- Avoid overly niche customization: Opt for broadly appealing finishes that resonate across buyers.
Ready to Design Your Pool for Value?
A custom pool can be both a lifestyle upgrade and a strategic investment in St. Petersburg. If you want a design that fits your home, photographs beautifully, and aligns with buyer expectations in Pinellas County, partner with a builder that focuses on craft, durability, and low-maintenance ownership.
Talk With WinWay Pools, Your St. Petersburg Custom Pool Builder
At WinWay Pools, we build custom, inground pools in St. Petersburg and across Pinellas County. As experienced luxury pool builders serving these regions, we are committed to turning your vision into a stunning, durable reality. If you’re weighing new construction or a pool renovation before listing, we’ll help you choose the right features, so your backyard looks amazing and works hard for resale.
Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and start your journey with one of the top-rated pool contractors in the region.
