The world of real estate often involves unexpected debates, and nearby pickleball courts have become one of the latest hot topics.
Last year we reported that property search site, Zillow, saw a 64% increase in listings that mention “pickleball” – so the trend is on the rise. But, are personal pickleball courts a property value booster, or do they drive away potential buyers?
Let’s break down both sides of this love-hate relationship in real estate and help you decide if a pickleball court in your neighborhood is a blessing or a curse.
Pickleball Courts: Pros and Cons for Homebuyers
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Active Lifestyle Appeal: Courts promote fitness, outdoor activity, and social connections, enhancing neighborhood appeal. | Noise Pollution: Constant paddle “pops” can feel relentless, reducing peace and home values by 10-20% for nearby properties. |
| Targeted Buyers: Attracts active retirees and fitness enthusiasts, appealing to a growing buyer demographic. | Buyer Resistance: Noise-sensitive buyers or families seeking quiet may avoid homes near courts, limiting the buyer pool. |
| Value Increase at a Distance: Homes 3+ blocks from courts may see a 1-5% value boost—close enough for convenience, far from noise. | Legal Issues: Disputes over noise have led to lawsuits and stress, impacting neighborhood harmony. |
The Case for Pickleball Courts: A Community Perk
For many homebuyers, especially those who love an active lifestyle, having pickleball courts nearby is a huge plus. Imagine stepping out of your home, grabbing your paddle, and strolling over to play your favorite game. It’s convenience at its best, and this amenity can make a property stand out to the right buyer.
Pros
- Active Lifestyle Appeal: Pickleball courts offer a convenient way for residents to stay active, socialize, and get outdoors. For some, this is a feature that elevates the neighborhood vibe, promoting wellness and community connections.
- Targeted Buyers: The growing popularity of pickleball means that there’s a particular set of buyers who actively look for homes close to courts—especially active retirees or fitness enthusiasts.
- Value Increase (at a Distance): If a property is three or more blocks away, the convenience of a nearby pickleball court without the noise can even increase property value by about 1-5%. For homes in that sweet spot, it’s a win-win.
The Drawbacks: When Noise is the Enemy
Of course, it’s not all sunshine and serves. For every happy pickleball player, there’s a neighbor who’s fed up with the incessant sounds. The repeated “pop” of pickleball paddles can turn what was once a peaceful backyard into a noisy nuisance—making it tough to relax or, worse, sell a home.
Cons
- Noise Pollution: This is the primary complaint from homeowners. For those living directly next to a court, the noise can feel relentless, akin to a vacuum cleaner constantly running. Homes that are right next to courts might see their values decrease by 10-20%.
- Buyer Resistance: Not all buyers are pickleball fans. Noise-sensitive individuals or families looking for peace may turn away immediately upon seeing the courts. This shrinks the buyer pool significantly.
- Legal Battles and Stress: Some homeowners have even taken legal action to try to close nearby courts or restrict playing hours, citing that the noise is disrupting their ability to sell their homes. This kind of environment is not ideal for a harmonious neighborhood.
Should You Add a Pickleball Court to Your Home?
If you’re a pickleball enthusiast or love hosting social gatherings, adding a pickleball court could be a game-changer for your lifestyle. Picture turning your backyard into an activity hub—perfect for staying active and inviting friends or neighbors over for a friendly match. It’s a fun, social, and healthy way to make the most of your space.
When it’s time to sell, a private pickleball court might become a standout feature for the right buyer—especially those who value unique recreational amenities. In outdoor-friendly communities, it could even boost your property’s appeal and potentially fetch a higher price.
But let’s not gloss over the reality: building a pickleball court is a significant investment. You’ll need ample space, quality materials, and regular maintenance, all of which can add up to tens of thousands of dollars. Whether you recoup that investment depends on finding a buyer who sees the value in it.
There’s also the potential noise issue. Depending on your layout and how close you are to your neighbors, a pickleball court could bring the same noise concerns that make community courts a hot topic.
Is It Worth It?
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal interests and long-term goals for your property. If you’re passionate about the game and plan to stay in your home for years, a pickleball court could be an incredible addition, bringing daily joy and a unique touch to your home.
If resale value is your focus, keep in mind that a pickleball court’s appeal is buyer-specific. A great compromise could be creating a multi-use recreational space—something adaptable for various activities. This approach broadens your home’s appeal while still giving you the option to enjoy pickleball when you want.
Tips for Sellers Near Pickleball Courts
A notable example of a property struggling to sell is a Cape Cod home that faced challenges due to its close proximity to pickleball courts. Despite multiple showings and price reductions, potential buyers were put off by the constant noise.
The homeowners eventually had to take legal action in hopes of restoring peace and making the property more marketable. This situation highlights the importance of a targeted approach when selling a home near pickleball courts.
1. Targeted Marketing
Market to those who view the courts as a perk—active retirees, young professionals, or anyone who might value outdoor amenities. Buyers who love pickleball will see the court as a convenience, not a drawback.
Consider using ads that specifically target pickleball enthusiasts, or promote the home within pickleball communities. Highlighting the sport’s benefits and positioning the home as a perfect match for an active lifestyle can make a big difference.
2. Noise Mitigation
Explore ways to reduce noise with landscaping solutions or sound barriers. Planting trees, installing fences, or adding sound-absorbing materials can help mitigate the noise, making your home more appealing to a broader audience.
Although this might not eliminate the noise entirely, these measures can make a significant improvement and help potential buyers envision a quieter environment.
3. Highlight the Benefits
Play up other features of the home. Position the pickleball court as a lifestyle feature—a symbol of active community living. Highlight the health benefits, convenience, and the social aspect that pickleball brings.
Emphasize how the courts foster community interaction and provide easy access to fitness opportunities, which could appeal to buyers who prioritize health and social connectivity.
The Verdict: Win or Loss?
So, are nearby pickleball courts a real estate win or a loss? The answer is—it depends. It comes down to how close you are to the action, who you’re marketing to, and how noise-sensitive your potential buyers might be. If you’re three or more blocks away, congratulations—you’re likely in a prime position to benefit. But if the courts are next door and you’re dealing with relentless noise, it might take a more strategic approach to sell at the price you want.
Pickleball is undeniably growing in popularity, and as with any trend, it brings both opportunity and challenges. If you love the sport, a nearby court might just be your dream come true. If not, some thoughtful marketing and noise mitigation could help ensure you’re not left paddling against the tide in the real estate market.
