The Impact of Pickleball Courts on Home Values and Residents: Noise Complaints and Solutions
Pickleball Noise Nuisance: How the Sport is Affecting Home Values and Residents
The pickleball craze sweeping America has garnered a loyal following, but not everyone is thrilled about the sport’s growing popularity. A rising number of homeowners living near pickleball courts are speaking out against the noise and disruption caused by the game, claiming it is not only annoying but also impacting their ability to sell their homes.
In Sagamore Beach, Cape Cod, homeowners have been struggling to sell their property for seven months due to the noise from nearby private club pickleball courts. Despite multiple price reductions, potential buyers are deterred by the constant “pop, pop, pop” of pickleballs and occasional cursing from players. Frustrated, the homeowners have hired a lawyer to fight their case and have the court shut down until their house is sold.
Similar complaints have been raised in San Francisco, where a wealthy couple successfully petitioned to shut down six pickleball courts at Presidio Wall Playground, citing the noise as “grating” and detrimental to home values. Ironically, the couple’s own home, complete with a private pickleball court, sold for $24 million after the courts were closed.
The pickleball drama has even escalated to vandalism in Needham, MA, where vandals slashed the nets and threw them out of the courts, sparking tensions among residents and players.
Real estate experts weigh in on the impact of pickleball courts on home values, with some suggesting that the proximity to noisy attractions like pickleball courts may deter noise-sensitive buyers while attracting others who enjoy the lively atmosphere. As pickleball’s popularity continues to rise, real estate agents are seeing more instances of pickleball-related issues affecting home sales and buyer interest.
Efforts to address the noise issue have included installing acoustic panels near courts and limiting play to certain times. However, not all residents are bothered by the pickleball racket, with some, like Las Vegas resident Sandy Selig, finding the sound soothing and even inspiring them to join in on the game.
As pickleball noise concerns persist, communities and homeowners are grappling with finding a balance between enjoying the sport and preserving the peace and quiet of residential neighborhoods.
