Original Source National Association of Realtors

Pickleball is more than just a sports craze—it’s becoming a key factor in real estate decisions. As courts pop up in neighborhoods and parks, homebuyers and homeowners alike are finding themselves either loving or loathing their proximity to the game. While some see pickleball courts as a fun perk that can boost property values, others are complaining about the noise, which can negatively affect home sales.

Pickleball: A Real Estate Double-Edged Sword

Pickleball’s popularity is undeniable, but not everyone sees it as a selling point. For example, a Massachusetts couple is currently struggling to sell their $1 million home, citing the constant noise from nearby pickleball courts as a major issue. According to homeowner Judith Comeau, the sound of paddles hitting the ball is like “a vacuum cleaner constantly running.” They’ve even hired a lawyer to try to get the courts removed. On the flip side, some homeowners see nearby courts as an asset. Elyse Sarnecky, director of marketing at Marketplace Homes, shared that in one Tampa, Florida home sale, nearby pickleball courts were a key selling point. Sarnecky’s team even created targeted marketing campaigns, sending pickleball-themed postcards to attract buyers. As a result, the home sold above the asking price.

Does Pickleball Hurt or Help Property Values?

The impact of nearby pickleball courts on home values is still up for debate. Real estate expert Sam Dogan suggests that homes directly across from courts could see a value drop of 10% to 20% due to noise concerns. But if the courts are a few blocks away, the property might actually see an increase of 1% to 5%. Realtors like Jill Drafts from Premier Sotheby’s International Realty believe pickleball courts can be a selling point, especially if located in parks or neighborhoods with restricted hours. "Pickleball is a great sport that brings neighbors together,” Drafts says. “It can add value if it’s nearby, but with sensible restrictions to avoid noise issues.” Rebecca Hidalgo Rains, CEO of Integrity All Stars Realty, agrees that the impact of noise is subjective. She’s sold homes near busy roads and power lines and believes every home has a buyer. "Pickleball is the newest craze in outdoor recreation, and most people will smile when they pass a court,” Rains adds.

Turning a Potential Negative into a Positive

Not all buyers are noise-sensitive. As pickleball continues to grow in popularity, smart marketing can turn nearby courts into a draw for potential buyers. By showcasing the social and fitness benefits, real estate agents can use pickleball as a selling feature. However, it’s important for buyers to be aware of potential noise issues, especially if courts are nearby. For those who love the game, living near a court might be a dream. For others, it could be a dealbreaker.

In a Pickle at Your Current Company?

At Innovative Mortgage Services, we help you navigate the mortgage industry profession, so that you don't get caught in a pickle. Interested in working with us? Learn more about our compensation plans and how you can join our team!