Alright, homeowner, you’ve got your house ready to hit the market—paint touch-ups done, landscaping on point, closets organized within an inch of their lives. But there’s one lingering question: What do you do with the hot tub? Should it stay as a selling point, come with you to the next backyard, or go entirely?
Here’s a breakdown to help you decide if this bubbly behemoth is worth keeping, moving, or removing.
Consider the Appeal – Does the Hot Tub Add Value?
The first question is simple: Does your hot tub actually add to the home’s allure? Hot tubs can be a divisive feature. Some buyers see them as the ultimate backyard luxury, imagining long evenings spent soaking in warm water under the stars. Others see maintenance, upkeep, and potential repair bills down the line.
Think about your neighborhood and potential buyers. Are they looking for a low-maintenance yard, or are they likely to appreciate a built-in spa feature? The answer can clue you in on whether the hot tub is a selling point or a potential drawback. If you’re in a neighborhood where buyers expect high-end outdoor amenities, keeping the tub may give your listing an edge.
Evaluate the Condition – Is It Ready for Prime Time?
A sparkling, well-maintained hot tub might be a dream feature. A dilapidated, aging tub with cracked jets? Not so much. Take a hard look at its current condition. If it’s in great shape, consider showcasing it as an attractive feature. If it’s a bit worse for wear, weigh the cost of repairs against the potential return.
Many buyers appreciate knowing a home has been well cared for, and a gleaming, functional hot tub can be part of that appeal. But if it’s a fixer-upper of its own, you might find that removing it completely makes the home more appealing to a wider audience.
Weigh Moving Costs – Is It Worth Bringing with You?
Maybe you’re attached to the hot tub—it’s been the site of many a relaxing evening and countless laughs with friends. Taking it with you is an option, but it’s not a simple one. Hot tubs are notoriously difficult to move, requiring specialized equipment and professional handling. There’s also the potential risk of damaging it during the move or finding that it doesn’t fit seamlessly into your next backyard.
Think about whether your next home can accommodate it and if you’ll realistically get as much enjoyment out of it in a new space. If not, maybe it’s time to part ways.
The Option to Remove – Creating a Blank Slate for Buyers
If keeping or moving it doesn’t make sense, consider saying goodbye to the hot tub entirely. For buyers who prioritize space and simplicity, an open backyard can be more attractive than a bulky hot tub. A blank slate allows them to envision their own backyard dreams, whether that’s a garden, patio, or play area.
If you go this route, make sure the space looks intentional after the hot tub removal. Whether you lay fresh sod, set up a small seating area, or plant some flowers, the goal is to create an inviting outdoor area that feels complete rather than “missing something.”
Staging the Hot Tub – Presenting It as a Feature
If you decide to keep the hot tub, make it shine. Just like staging the inside of your home, you want to stage the hot tub area so it looks appealing and adds value. Clean it thoroughly, set up fresh towels nearby, and add some cozy touches like outdoor string lights or potted plants to make the space feel like a spa getaway.
Showcase its features, too—if it has jets, lighting, or heating settings, let buyers know. With the right setup, you can transform the hot tub from “extra item” to “must-have feature.”
Making the Call – What’s the Right Move?
At the end of the day, the decision depends on your home’s market, the condition of the hot tub, and what you’re willing to invest. If it adds appeal, keep it and make it sparkle. If it’s more hassle than it’s worth, maybe it’s time to let it go.
Whether you decide to showcase it, move it, or remove it, remember that you’re crafting the story of the home you’re selling. Whatever you do, make sure every element—hot tub included—supports that story.
