Pickleball Courts: Pickleball, a rapidly growing sport, has had a varied impact on home sales, benefiting some while complicating the process for others. The key factor is noise, which can significantly influence a property’s marketability.
Judy and her husband, a retired couple from Massachusetts, are grappling with this issue firsthand. Their home, situated next to newly converted pickleball courts, is struggling to sell due to the noise generated by the sport. With sound levels often exceeding 70 decibels, potential buyers have repeatedly cited the constant noise as a deterrent.
Despite efforts to mitigate the issue—such as requesting quieter paddles or sound barriers—Judy’s pleas have been ignored. This situation has led her to hire an attorney to address the noise, aiming to either reduce the disturbance or shut down the courts entirely.
In contrast, pickleball can be a significant asset for other home sellers. According to Zillow’s 2024 Hottest Homes Trends report, references to pickleball courts in home listings have surged by 64% over the past year. In cities like New York, the share of listings highlighting proximity to pickleball courts has doubled. This trend indicates that, in many areas, pickleball is a desirable feature, particularly for buyers interested in recreational amenities.
The discrepancy between Judy’s experience and the national trend can be attributed to several factors. Her home’s proximity to the courts is a major drawback, as constant noise can be off-putting to potential buyers. Additionally, her location, close to a vacation destination, may attract buyers seeking tranquility rather than active amenities.
To address the issue, real estate expert Daniel Cabrera suggests targeting buyers who value pickleball as a lifestyle feature. Active retirees, fitness enthusiasts, and families who enjoy recreational amenities are more likely to appreciate the proximity to pickleball courts. Properly marketing these homes as part of an active lifestyle package can turn a potential liability into a selling point.
For those looking to buy a home near pickleball courts, or sell one in a similar situation, understanding these dynamics can make all the difference in navigating the real estate market.
News in Brief: Pickleball Courts
Pickleball’s impact on home sales varies significantly. For Judy, a retired Massachusetts resident, her home’s proximity to noisy pickleball courts has made it difficult to sell, prompting her to hire an attorney to address the disturbance.
In contrast, pickleball can be a selling point elsewhere, with Zillow’s 2024 report showing a 64% increase in home listings mentioning pickleball courts. This trend is especially strong in cities like New York. Real estate expert Daniel Cabrera suggests marketing homes near pickleball courts to active retirees and fitness enthusiasts to turn potential noise issues into attractive lifestyle features.
