Farm ponds can increase property values—but there are caveats. On average, land with a pond will sell for between 5% and 15% more than land without a pond. However, this doesn’t mean that one can just dig a pond and forget it! There are a couple of factors to consider. First is that the higher the property’s acreage, the less value a pond adds overall. On a 1,000-acre property, for example, a one-acre pond may add very little to the total cost, while on a 50-acre property, that same pond might add a large share to the property’s sell price.
The second factor is pond maintenance. A well-maintained pond that is clean, with a healthy ecosystem, and easy to use for it’s intended purposes be they agricultural or recreational, can add a lot more to the value of a property. Conversely, ponds with stagnating water, problematic algae blooms or other issues can be seen as an expense in the making, thus lowering property values.
FAQs
Farm ponds can increase property values—but there are caveats. On average, land with a pond will sell for between 5% and 15% more than land without a pond. However, this doesn't mean that one can just dig a pond and forget it!
Is land with a pond a good investment? ›
There are many benefits of having a pond on your property. A pond can provide recreational opportunities such as fishing, hunting, boating or swimming. It may also impact the monetary value of your property. There is a strong demand for properties with water features, but often, the supply is limited.
Does a pond increase homeowners insurance? ›
The risk of someone drowning means higher insurance rates. A hot tub or pond on the property can have a similar impact. The age and condition of your roof. "The condition of the roof affects your homeowners policy.
Does a backyard pond increase home value? ›
For example, warm places like California or Florida rarely face snowing or freezing. So, if you have a house there with a backyard pond, you are more likely to get a higher price for your property.
Why have a pond on your property? ›
Aid in Conserving Water
When homeowners get a pond, they'll find that they'll only need to do an occasional water change. Ponds deliver a self-sustaining hydration cycle that ensures plants are alive without having to water them. You can also use your pond water to water the plants in your yard.
What are the disadvantages of ponds? ›
Pond Disadvantages:
- Can require lots of maintenance. ...
- And you need to do something to stop mosquitoes from breeding in it. ...
- Could pose a danger to toddlers.
- Pets may drink from it, which may not be good if if has runoff from yard, including pesticides and fertilizers.
On average, land with a pond will sell for between 5% and 15% more than land without a pond. However, this doesn't mean that one can just dig a pond and forget it! There are a couple of factors to consider. First is that the higher the property's acreage, the less value a pond adds overall.
How much is a backyard pond on average? ›
Pond installation cost ranges from $3,675 to $14,500 for midsize backyard ponds with waterfalls, plants, and fish. To enjoy the relaxing sound of flowing water, most homeowners pay an average of $7,400 per project. Pricing varies widely with size, pond type, and beautification elements.
Are backyard ponds worth it? ›
A backyard pond could turn them from a couch potato into a wildlife expert. The whole family can learn about ecosystems, plants, animals, and nature. Record and photograph wildlife, cultivate aquatic plants, even make a school project out of it! Plant an appreciation for nature in them and watch it grow.
Are backyard ponds hard to maintain? ›
Regular maintenance of a garden pond has some challenging components to it. There are a lot of working parts to maintain and monitor throughout the year and a whole underwater ecosystem to take care of. It's not hard to maintain a garden pond, but it can be time-consuming. Even so, it's well worth the extra effort.
Everyone knows when it comes to the resale value of your home, a swimming pool can be deadly. However, in the opinion of some real estate agents, ponds can be a great addition to your home that might even pay dividends.
Why do rural homes have ponds? ›
In essence, a well-tended farm pond becomes a sanctuary for wildlife, contributing to the overall ecological health of the farm. A farm pond can also be a haven for relaxation and recreation. A well-designed pond becomes a natural swimming pool, a refreshing escape from the heat and a source of endless enjoyment.
How many acres does a pond have to be to be considered a lake? ›
Definitions for lake range in minimum sizes for a body of water from 2 hectares (5 acres) to 8 hectares (20 acres). Pioneering animal ecologist Charles Elton regarded lakes as waterbodies of 40 hectares (99 acres) or more.
Which type of land is best for investment? ›
For small investors to truly enjoy the more traditional sense of land ownership, perhaps the best options are timber farms, mineral development lands, vegetable gardens, orchards, vineyards, and recreational land.
Is it worth it to have a pond? ›
Private ponds can be a great way to add function, as well as scenic beauty, to your property. A properly constructed pond can provide a landowner with their own personal fishing hole, swimming destination or place to view wildlife.
What should I stock my 1 acre pond with? ›
As with any new environment, consider the size of the pond and the size of the fish species you want to stock before you visit a fish hatchery. If you have at least a 1-acre farm pond, there are three species of fish that do best in this size body of water: bass, bluegill, and catfish.
