12 Pool Features That Actually Increase Home Value in 2025
Thinking about how much a pool adds to your home’s value before making that backyard investment? You’re making a smart move by researching first.
Recent real estate data shows that an in-ground pool can add up to 7% or more to your home’s value. This percentage varies based on your local market conditions and pool features. Homes with pools in warm-weather markets like Los Angeles sell for about $95,000 more than similar properties without them. Most homeowners get back around 56% of their installation costs during a sale. The value significantly changes when you add pool features that buyers really want.
Cool Breeze Pools has analyzed the latest trends. We’ve put together a list of 12 pool features that offer the best return on investment in 2025. Elegant waterfalls create a resort-like atmosphere. Practical automation systems make maintenance simple. These additions do more than just boost your swimming experience – they target what today’s buyers will pay premium prices to get.
Waterfalls and Fountains
A water feature can turn your regular swimming pool into a stunning oasis. Waterfalls and fountains are top choices that make your pool look amazing and add value to your property.
Waterfalls and Fountains Overview
Water features come in many styles, from elegant cascades to dramatic rock formations. Each style creates its own unique appeal. Here are the most common types:
Sheet waterfalls: Sleek, modern designs creating smooth water curtains
Cascade waterfalls: Natural-looking stepped water flow over multiple levels
Rock waterfalls: Custom stone formations mimicking natural landscapes
Fountain waterfalls: Combining vertical spray with cascading effects
These features serve as eye-catching focal points that turn ordinary pools into luxury retreats. Our team at Cool Breeze Pools has seen these additions create personal sanctuaries in countless backyards.
Why Waterfalls and Fountains Add Value
Waterfalls and fountains offer more than just good looks. They bring real benefits that make them worth the investment:
The multi-sensory experience they create stands out. Falling water creates a soothing sound that blocks unwanted neighborhood noise. This calming atmosphere helps potential buyers relax and spend more time during property viewings.
These features also serve practical purposes. Moving water improves circulation and oxygen levels while keeping water quality high by reducing stagnant areas.
Your property will stand out in competitive markets. Real estate experts rank water features among the most wanted backyard features. Studies show they can boost your home’s value by up to 8%.
Best Use Cases for Waterfalls and Fountains
These features work best when you have:
Homes in noisy environments: The sound masks traffic or neighborhood noise
Properties with limited views: Creates a focal point where natural vistas are lacking
Luxury market listings: Meets buyer expectations in premium neighborhoods
Entertainment-focused backyards: Boosts ambiance for gatherings
Your waterfall should blend with the overall landscaping instead of standing alone. This way, it becomes a natural part of your outdoor space rather than looking like an afterthought.
Fire Pits and Fire Bowls
Adding fire features to your pool does more than improve its appeal. The dramatic contrast between fire and water creates a unique atmosphere that today’s buyers love. Fire pits and fire bowls have become prominent additions that make your backyard retreat more beautiful and functional.
Fire Pits and Fire Bowls Overview
Fire features complement different pool designs in several styles:
Fire bowls: Decorative elements typically positioned on pedestals or pool edges
Fire pits: Larger gathering spots placed near pool areas
Fire and water bowls: Combining both elements for dramatic visual effects
Modern fire features run on natural gas or propane. They offer easy control through push-button ignition and adjustable flame height. Materials include copper that develops a unique patina over time, concrete, cast iron, and steel. Each material brings its own distinctive look.
Why Fire Features Add Value
Fire elements make your property more marketable in several ways:
They create natural gathering spaces and extend your outdoor living season. The warmth lets you enjoy your pool area on cool evenings. Your backyard becomes usable throughout more months of the year.
The mesmerizing dance of flames against water creates a luxurious resort-like atmosphere. This emotional connection helps buyers picture themselves relaxing in the space.
The numbers tell an impressive story too. Well-designed fire features can raise your property’s value by 10-15%. This is a big deal as it means that the return exceeds many indoor renovations. At Cool Breeze Pools, properties with these features sell faster and command higher prices than similar homes without them.
Estimated Cost of Fire Pits and Bowls
Prices vary based on design complexity, materials, and installation needs:
Feature TypeAverage Cost RangeBasic Fire Bowls$1,000-$4,000Custom Fire Pits$2,500-$8,000Fire/Water Combination$5,000-$8,000
Installation costs range from $2,500-$5,000, depending on gas line requirements and complexity.
Best Use Cases for Fire Features
Fire elements work best in:
Elevated spots that create reflections on water surfaces
Near seating areas to create natural social zones
Properties in cooler climates where extended outdoor seasons matter
Luxury market homes where buyers expect distinctive amenities
Place fire features where you can see them from inside your home. This creates visual interest even when nobody uses the pool. Remember to maintain safe distances from structures and add smart controls to maximize convenience and safety.
Swim-Up Bars
Swim-up bars stand out among premium pool features that boost property value. These resort-style additions bring vacation vibes right to your backyard and offer great returns on investment.
Swim-Up Bars Overview
A swim-up bar needs two main parts: a wet side and a dry side. The wet side has submerged seating in the pool, usually built in water 30-42 inches deep. The dry side works as a serving area with a flat countertop that sits about six inches above the pool coping.
The main parts of a swim-up bar include:
In-water seating (usually built into the pool floor)
Bar countertop at the pool’s edge
Optional dry-side seating for non-swimming guests
Storage for drinks and snacks
These bars work best in the shallow end of your pool, so all guests can use them whatever their swimming ability.
Why Swim-Up Bars Add Value
Swim-up bars boost your property’s appeal in many ways. They create a fun spot where guests can hang out without leaving the water. You can enjoy drinks while staying cool in the pool – just like at a fancy resort.
These features also create a natural gathering spot that brings swimmers and non-swimmers together. This makes your backyard a better place for parties and get-togethers.
The best part? Swim-up bars can boost your home’s resale value by a lot. Not many homes have this luxury feature, which makes your property stand out in competitive markets. At Cool Breeze Pools, we’ve seen homes with well-designed swim-up bars sell for higher prices to luxury buyers.
Estimated Cost of Swim-Up Bars
Prices change based on how fancy you want to go:
TypePrice RangeSimple swim-up bar$5,000Mid-range integrated design$7,000-$10,000Luxury version with full outdoor kitchen$15,000+
If you’re watching your budget, removable poolside bars start around $500. But these don’t add the same value as permanent ones.
Best Use Cases for Swim-Up Bars
Swim-up bars are great for:
Homes aimed at the luxury market
People who love to entertain
Yards where space is tight (you get a bar, kitchen and dining area all in one spot)
Properties in warm places with long outdoor seasons
To make the most of your bar, think about adding built-in fridges, ice makers, or TVs to create a complete party zone. The right design matches good looks with usefulness, creating a space that feels like it belongs there.
Tanning Ledges
Tanning ledges are now among the hottest pool features homeowners want. These shallow platforms add both fun and value to your property. You won’t find many pool additions that match their versatility, which explains why custom pool designs everywhere feature them.
Tanning Ledges Overview
Sun shelves, Baja shelves, or tanning shelves – whatever you call them – are shallow areas usually 6 to 18 inches deep. Most people prefer them at 10-12 inches. The platforms let you relax or chat with friends while staying cool in the water.
A typical tanning ledge comes with:
Water depths of 6-9 inches (perfect for placing furniture)
Room for lounge chairs (usually 5-9 feet wide)
Smooth, non-slip surfaces that keep everyone safe
Extra options like bubblers, LED lights, or spots for umbrellas
The best part? You can cool off without diving in deep. It’s just like having your own private beach right in the backyard.
Why Tanning Ledges Add Value
Your property’s appeal goes up by a lot with a tanning ledge. They’re multipurpose spaces that do more than just swimming. Buyers love this flexibility, which makes your pool more attractive to them.
These ledges are great for kids, older folks, and pets too. Everyone can enjoy a safe, shallow spot to splash around. Families with young children or grandkids find this feature really appealing.
At Cool Breeze Pools, we’ve seen homes with well-designed tanning ledges sell for more. Buyers looking at premium properties now expect to see these features.
Estimated Cost of Tanning Ledges
Prices change based on what materials you pick and how fancy you want it:
Material TypePrice RangeFiberglass$5,000-$15,000Concrete$5,000-$10,000+Vinyl$5,000-$10,000
Extra features like bubblers, fountains, or special lighting add $500-$1,500 to the total.
Best Use Cases for Tanning Ledges
These ledges work great for:
Families who need safe play areas for kids
Properties aimed at luxury buyers wanting resort-style features
Yards meant for parties and get-togethers
Homes where older folks need easy water access
Want to make the most of your tanning ledge? Try pairing it with other premium features. Add automation systems or natural stone to boost your home’s value even more.
LED Pool Lighting
Good lighting makes a huge difference in your pool’s value. LED pool lighting isn’t just practical – it can reshape the scene of your aquatic retreat after dark.
LED Pool Lighting Overview
LED (Light-Emitting Diode) pool lights are a big step up from old-style incandescent lighting. These modern lights turn most of their energy into light rather than heat, which creates brilliant illumination efficiently. You’ll find them in many styles, from basic single-color lights to advanced systems that can change colors and run pre-set light shows.
Today’s LED pool lights come with:
Remote control operation for convenient adjustments
Color-changing capabilities with 12+ distinct options
Waterproof housings designed specifically for submersion
Versatile mounting options for different pool types
Why LED Lighting Adds Value
LED lighting adds value to your property in several ways. The original advantage is energy efficiency – LED lights use up to 87% less energy than incandescent bulbs. A 42-watt LED light can save you about $114 yearly compared to a 300-watt incandescent running 8 hours daily.
LED lighting improves safety by lighting up the entire pool area clearly. Better visibility reduces accidents and keeps unwanted visitors away, making your property safer.
These lights last an impressive 20,000-30,000 hours – that’s 10-20 years of use. Homebuyers love this long lifespan because it means fewer replacements and lower maintenance costs.
Estimated Cost of LED Pool Lighting
Investment varies based on light type and quality:
Light TypePrice Range (including installation)Standard LED lights$700-$900Premium LED fixtures$1,000-$1,500Replacement LED bulbs$50-$650
The upfront cost might be higher than traditional lighting, but the investment pays off through energy savings and less maintenance.
Best Use Cases for LED Pool Lighting
LED lights work great for:
Highlighting architectural features like waterfalls or infinity edges
Illuminating tanning ledges (positioned 4 inches below waterline)
Creating ambiance for entertainment areas
Increasing safety in deep sections (placed 18-24 inches below waterline)
Cool Breeze Pools suggests placing lights every 8 feet along pool walls for even lighting. The right lighting design not only makes your pool look amazing but also boosts your property’s value and appeal.
Infinity Edges
Infinity edges stand at the pinnacle of pool design, commanding attention and maximizing property values for luxury property investors. These architectural marvels create a striking visual illusion that justifies their investment cost.
Infinity Edges Overview
Infinity edges (likewise called vanishing edges or negative edges) create an illusion of boundless water with one or more walls that appear limitless. The design features two distinct levels: a main pool where the edge sits just below the water’s surface and a catch basin below that collects overflow and pumps it back. Water naturally meets the skyline, sea, or landscape beyond through continuous circulation that creates a glass-smooth surface.
Why Infinity Edges Add Value
Infinity edges have the strongest effect on a house’s value among all pool types. These pools turn ordinary backyards into resort-like retreats with their dramatic appearance and unobstructed views. The design aligns with scenic views and turns the pool into a showpiece that fits naturally with its surroundings. Properties stand out in competitive markets because of this luxury feature. Cool Breeze Pools has observed homes with infinity edges selling at premium prices, though the overall ROI varies between 5% and 56%.
Estimated Cost of Infinity Edges
Quality materials and precise engineering make infinity edge installation specialized:
TypeAverage Cost RangeBasic Infinity Edge$55,000-$95,000Mid-Range Design$95,000-$150,000Premium Custom Design$150,000-$200,000
The cost per square foot runs $80-$130, about 20-25% higher than traditional pools.
Best Use Cases for Infinity Edges
Infinity edges work best for:
Properties with panoramic views (oceanfront, valley overlooks)
Homes on gently sloping landscapes
Luxury market properties where buyers expect distinctive features
Elevated sites that can maximize the vanishing edge effect
Flat properties might not showcase the infinity edge’s full dramatic potential if they lack scenic views.
Built-In Spas and Hot Tubs
Relaxation meets recreation in built-in spas, making them one of the most desired pool additions for selective homeowners. These luxurious water features make your swimming experience better and typically offer good returns when you sell your property.
Built-In Spas Overview
Built-in spas are permanent, custom-designed hot tubs that merge with your swimming pool or stand independently. These permanent installations look better than portable spas and naturally complement your outdoor space. You can choose from two main configurations:
Integrated spas: Located inside the swimming pool, appearing as part of the pool’s overall shape
Attached spas: Constructed adjacent to the pool with a shared wall
Cool Breeze Pools designs these features using premium materials like concrete, gunite, tile, or fiberglass that ensure beauty and durability. Most built-in spas come with therapeutic jets, dedicated heating systems, and custom seating arrangements based on your priorities.
Why Built-In Spas Add Value
In-ground hot tubs, especially those next to in-ground swimming pools, add substantial value to your property. Of course, this improvement goes beyond looks—built-in spas turn ordinary pools into year-round retreats.
These spas create a personal wellness sanctuary that appeals to potential buyers looking for luxury lifestyle amenities. Year-round usability makes them attractive in competitive real estate markets, and you can enjoy them whatever the season or temperature.
All the same, keeping them functional is significant. Non-working built-in spas can decrease your home’s appraisal value.
Estimated Cost of Built-In Spas
Price ranges vary based on design complexity and materials:
TypePrice RangeShotcrete Spa$15,000-$20,000Acrylic Spa (Above Ground)$4,000-$10,000Swim Spa$7,000-$30,000
Adding a spa during original pool construction saves $2,000-$10,000 compared to modernizing one later.
Best Use Cases for Built-In Spas
Built-in spas provide maximum value in:
Properties with existing in-ground pools seeking upgrade options
Homes in variable climate regions where year-round outdoor amenities matter
Luxury market properties where buyers expect premium features
Spaces designed for wellness and relaxation-focused lifestyles
A well-designed built-in spa from Cool Breeze Pools creates a natural transition between swimming and soaking. This perfect balance of recreation and relaxation is what today’s homebuyers just need.
Outdoor Showers
Swimming areas become more appealing with outdoor showers that create practical value for potential buyers. These versatile amenities combine luxury with functionality and offer benefits well beyond simple convenience.
Outdoor Showers Overview
Outdoor showers come in various styles, from simple wall-mounted fixtures to custom enclosures with premium finishes. Simple designs feature a showerhead in a discreet location. More upscale versions include privacy walls, built-in benches, or specialized lighting. Weather-resistant materials commonly used are:
Teak or cedar wood for natural esthetics
Stone or concrete for durability
Bamboo screens for tropical appeal
Glass partitions for contemporary designs
The installations need proper drainage systems that either connect to existing plumbing or use simple stone-based drainage solutions.
Why Outdoor Showers Add Value
Properties with outdoor showers show remarkable returns on investment. Homes with these amenities command a 97% price-per-square-foot premium in real estate listings. New York state’s properties with outdoor showers list at 256% more per square foot compared to similar homes without them.
This boost in value comes from practical benefits. Sand, dirt, and chlorine stay outside, which protects interior flooring and fixtures. Buyers looking for premium properties now expect these luxury resort-like experiences.
Estimated Cost of Outdoor Showers
Design complexity determines the investment:
TypePrice RangeWall-mounted basic$100-$500Standalone stationary$500-$2,000Custom enclosure$1,000-$5,000+
Installation costs add $500-$1,600 depending on plumbing requirements and accessibility.
Best Use Cases for Outdoor Showers
Cool Breeze Pools recommends outdoor showers for:
Properties with pools to rinse off chlorine
Beach homes that need to keep sand outside
Homes with active lifestyles (gardening, sports, pets)
Properties in luxury market segments
The best placement balances privacy with convenience—usually near pool areas but sheltered from main sight lines. Outdoor showers are an economical addition that boosts daily living comfort and potential resale value.
Automation Systems
Modern pool automation systems are the invisible workhorses that maximize your investment and minimize maintenance headaches in today’s high-tech world.
Automation Systems Overview
Pool automation technology controls multiple pool functions through a single interface. These smart systems manage:
Pool pumps and filtration cycles
Heating and temperature regulation
Lighting scenes and color changes
Water features like fountains and waterfalls
Chemical dosing and water balance
Pool covers and safety features
The systems connect to Wi-Fi, which lets you control your pool through smartphone apps or voice assistants. You can adjust your pool settings from anywhere—whether you’re inside watching TV or away on vacation.
Why Pool Automation Adds Value
Smart pool systems substantially boost property appeal through practical advantages. We optimized energy usage by programming pumps and heaters to run only when needed, which can reduce energy costs by up to 70%. Lower utility bills become a direct benefit for prospective buyers.
These systems improve safety with features like automatic covers and alerts for unauthorized pool access. Remote monitoring gives busy homeowners and those with second homes peace of mind about water quality and equipment function.
The automation systems increase marketability by showcasing your property as modern and low-maintenance—qualities that today’s real estate market values highly.
Estimated Cost of Automation Systems
Investment varies based on functionality:
System TypePrice RangeBasic Controls$1,500-$2,200Mid-Range Systems$2,200-$3,500Premium Integration$3,500-$5,000
Homeowners often recover their investment through energy savings within 3-5 years.
Best Use Cases for Automation
Cool Breeze Pools recommends automation systems especially when you have:
Properties with multiple pool features needing coordination
Busy households looking for simple maintenance
Luxury listings where buyers expect modern conveniences
Vacation properties requiring remote monitoring
Buyers now prioritize smart home features more than ever. Automated pools blend luxury with practicality to command premium prices in the market.
Natural Rock Features
Natural rock elements change ordinary pool areas into stunning landscapes that capture nature’s beauty and provide lasting value. These organic additions create eye-catching focal points that strike a chord with buyers looking for visual appeal and practical benefits.
Natural Rock Features Overview
Natural rock features cover several distinct elements that go together with water:
Boulders and large rocks that serve as accent pieces or retaining walls
Rock waterfalls creating water movement over natural stone formations
Natural stone coping defining pool edges with elegant, durable borders
Rock planters integrating greenery with stone elements
These features employ various materials including granite, sandstone, limestone, travertine, slate, and marble. Most homeowners choose indigenous rocks from local suppliers because they match the regional landscape better and cost less than imported varieties.
Why Natural Rock Features Add Value
Natural rock features substantially boost property appeal through tangible benefits. They bring an earthy, organic element that creates visual contrast with the smooth water surface and encourage a more inviting environment. This natural esthetic helps create a unique retreat that stands out in competitive real estate markets.
Rock features designed properly increase durability because natural stone withstands weather extremes, heavy foot traffic, and water exposure without degradation. Rocks keep their appearance despite daily wear and maintain property value through their longevity.
Well-executed rock landscaping can raise your property’s market value by making it distinct from standard offerings. In Sydney’s real estate market, unique rock features make properties more appealing to potential buyers and can increase overall home value.
Estimated Cost of Rock Features
Installation expenses vary based on design complexity:
Feature TypePrice RangeSimple Rock Accents$5,000-$10,000Mid-Range Rock Features$10,000-$15,000Expanded Rock Waterfalls$25,000+
Best Use Cases for Rock Features
At Cool Breeze Pools, we recommend natural rock features especially when you have:
Freeform pools needing natural-looking transitions to surrounding landscapes
Properties that want a resort-like atmosphere
Pools in areas where indigenous stone complements local geography
Designs where durability and longevity matter more than original cost
Hidden Pool Covers
Hidden pool covers blend beauty and practicality to raise your property’s market appeal. Buyers increasingly look for these innovative solutions that combine visual appeal with practical benefits.
Hidden Pool Covers Overview
Hidden pool covers use advanced systems that completely conceal the cover mechanism when not in use. You can finish the lid frame with matching tiles, paving, decking, synthetic turf, or even micro-cement in the most refined options. This creates a seamless look with your pool surroundings. Three main track systems exist: on-deck tracks (visible and mounted above ground), recessed tracks (partially underground, flush with the deck), and undertracks (completely embedded in pool walls with underground housing). The undertracks provide the most elegant finish as the system stays invisible until activated.
Why Hidden Pool Covers Add Value
Hidden pool covers prevent accidental falls into the pool, making them a crucial safety feature. Many automatic covers can support heavy weights, giving peace of mind to families with children or pets. These covers also cut maintenance costs by reducing heating expenses 50-70% through better heat retention. Water evaporation drops by 30-50% and chemical usage decreases up to 70%.
Your swimming season gets longer because the water stays warmer earlier in spring and later into fall. Some homeowner insurance companies offer discounts for properties with these safety features. This adds financial benefits beyond the improved looks.
Best Use Cases for Hidden Covers
At Cool Breeze Pools, hidden covers work best in contemporary outdoor living spaces where clean lines and uncluttered looks matter. Design-focused properties benefit most, as traditional visible covers would spoil the overall appearance. The ideal placement for your hidden cover ranges between 400mm and 1m from the waterline. This allows easy access without compromising design integrity.
Integrated Seating and Lounging Areas
Custom pool areas with built-in seating revolutionize regular swimming spots into social spaces where design meets comfort. These smart additions create gathering spots that improve both function and visual appeal.
Integrated Seating Overview
Built-in seating includes several versatile options that blend naturally with your pool design:
Perimeter benches curve along pool contours and offer comfortable seating with the pool wall’s support
Bench and stair combinations turn entry steps into relaxing lounging areas
In-water bar stools connect smoothly to poolside bars or kitchen spaces
Tanning ledges feature dedicated seating areas in shallow water
Your pool’s overall esthetic determines the seating materials—from natural stone that creates tropical vibes to decorative tiles that suit modern designs. These fixed features create a unified look that portable furniture can’t achieve.
Why Built-in Seating Adds Value
Built-in seating makes properties more appealing through practical advantages. These features combine multiple functions in one area to save space. They create social zones where conversations flow naturally.
Fixed seating saves money by eliminating the need to buy extra furniture and reduces maintenance costs. Cool Breeze Pools has found that homes with well-designed integrated seating often sell for higher prices.
Estimated Cost of Integrated Seating
Design complexity affects the investment:
Seating TypePrice RangeSimple bench seating$2,000-$4,000Bench/stair combination$3,000-$6,000In-water bar stools$500-$1,500 per seatCustom configurations$5,000-$10,000+
Best Use Cases for Pool Seating
Homeowners who love entertaining will benefit most from integrated seating. These features create natural gathering spots where guests can chat while staying cool without swimming.
Smart positioning takes advantage of scenic views or complements other features like waterfalls or fire elements. Families with children appreciate stepped entry areas with extended seating that create safe, shallow zones for everyone.
Conclusion
The value your swimming pool adds to your property ended up depending on choosing the right features. This piece explores premium additions that improve your swimming experience and maximize your return on investment. LED lighting saves 87% on energy costs. Dramatic infinity edges command premium prices. Each feature plays a specific role based on your property type and location.
Your decisions should align with the local climate, property style, and neighborhood standards. Family homes benefit greatly from tanning ledges. Automation systems make perfect sense for busy professionals who need convenience. On top of that, hidden pool covers reduce maintenance costs and improve safety – qualities that attract potential buyers.
Smart investments balance current enjoyment with future value growth. The best approach isn’t about adding every available feature. Focus instead on elements that match your property and lifestyle. The comparison table gives you a starting point to make selections that fit your budget and priorities. Our team at Cool Breeze Pools can help change your ordinary backyard into an extraordinary retreat. We create spaces that provide years of enjoyment while boosting your property’s market appeal. To learn more about premium pool features that would best increase your home’s value, call us at (706) 877-1714.
FAQs
Q1. How much value does a pool typically add to a home in 2025?
In warm-weather markets like Los Angeles, homes with pools can sell for approximately $95,000 more than comparable properties without them. This represents about a 10% increase in value for the median-priced home in the area.
Q2. What are the most valuable pool features to invest in?
The most valuable pool features include infinity edges, LED lighting, automation systems, and integrated seating areas. These features offer a combination of luxury appeal, energy efficiency, and practical benefits that attract buyers and increase property value.
Q3. Are hidden pool covers worth the investment?
Yes, hidden pool covers can be a worthwhile investment. They enhance safety, reduce maintenance costs, and can cut heating expenses by 50-70%. Additionally, they can extend the swimming season and may qualify homeowners for insurance discounts.
Q4. How do tanning ledges impact a pool’s value?
Tanning ledges are highly desirable features that can significantly increase a pool’s appeal. They offer versatility, enhance accessibility for children and elderly family members, and create a resort-like atmosphere that can command premium pricing in the real estate market.
Q5. What role does pool automation play in increasing home value?
Pool automation systems can substantially boost property appeal by optimizing energy usage, enhancing safety, and offering remote control capabilities. These smart systems can reduce energy costs by up to 70% and position the property as modern and low-maintenance, attributes increasingly valued in today’s real estate market.