Why Pickleball Courts Make Great Rental Listings

Pickleball Courts Make Great Rental Listings

If you’re looking for a game changer that can really make your backyard rental property stand out, you might be surprised to hear that pickleball could be the answer you’ve been looking for.

Pickleball has become a bit more popular in recent years to the point that it’s now one of the fastest-growing sports in the world. This is likely because it has an inherent social vibe and is easy to learn, so it’s appealing to people across many different age groups and skill levels.

In this article, we’ll dive into what can make a pickleball courts such a popular addition to your backyard rental property, and exactly how you can set up yours so it can attract more renters.

Overview of Pickleball

If you don’t yet have a pickleball courts set up on your property and you’re not that familiar with the sport, let’s enlighten you!

At first glance, pickleball may look like it’s a variation of tennis. But in reality, it’s a game that essentially combines tennis with badminton and ping-pong.

It’s played on a smaller court (about the size of a badminton court) with a slightly modified tennis net. Players use solid paddles and a perforated plastic ball, similar to a wiffle ball. The game can be played as singles or doubles, which makes it a versatile game for different group sizes.

The rules are simple and easy to learn, which means that players of all ages and skill levels can pick it up quickly. Plus, the smaller court size and slower ball speed means that there’s less running around than tennis, which makes it less strenuous on the body. This is precisely why it can be especially appealing to older adults and people who are looking for a gentler form of exercise.

Pickleball is also a highly social sport. It encourages interaction and friendly competition, which makes it a fantastic way for people to connect and have fun while on vacation. That’s why communities across the country are setting up pickleball courts in parks, recreation centers, and even driveways as the game has developed a strong following.

What To Think About When Adding a Pickleball Courts

Adding a pickleball courts to your rental property can be a fantastic investment, but it’s important to consider a few key factors first. Such as…

Spacing and Layout

First things first, you need to determine if you have enough space for a pickleball courts in the first place!

A standard pickleball courts is 20 feet wide and 44 feet long, which is smaller than a tennis court but still requires a good amount of flat, level space.

In addition to the court itself, you’ll want to allow for extra space around the perimeter. Plan on about 10 feet on each end and 5 feet on the sides to give players room to move safely and retrieve the balls. This means you’ll need a total area of roughly 30 feet by 64 feet in total.

Surface Material

Pickleball can be played on a variety of surfaces, including concrete, asphalt, or a sport-specific surface like a synthetic court. But concrete and asphalt can be hard on the joints, as you can probably imagine.

A cushioned surface like a modular tile system will reduce impact and provide better traction in the process. These tiles are designed specifically for sports like pickleball and are easy to install over existing concrete or asphalt that you may have on your property already.

Net and Court Markings

To create a professional feel for your court, you’ll need to install a pickleball net, which is slightly lower than a tennis net. Make sure it’s adjustable and durable enough to withstand regular use and various weather conditions.

As for the court markings, you can either paint them directly onto the surface or use removable tape if you’re sharing the space with other activities.

Can A Pickleball Courts Really Attract Renters?

The short and sweet answer is absolutely! Here’s why:

It’s Appealing Across Many Age Groups

Pickleball is a sport that has universal appeal. This makes it a particularly attractive amenity for families looking for activities that everyone can enjoy together, from the kids to the grandparents. The low-impact nature of the game is ideal for older adults who want to remain active without the strain that sports like tennis or basketball might cause them.

It’s Intrinsically A Unique Selling Point in a Competitive Market

In a crowded rental market, it’s important to have unique features that set your property apart. While many rentals might boast amenities like a swimming pool or a gym, a pickleball courts is still relatively uncommon and can serve as a standout feature in your listing. At the very latest it adds a level of novelty to your listing.

It Could Encourage Repeat Bookings

Remember, pickleball is a growing trend! That’s why offering a pickleball courts can encourage guests to stay longer and return for future visits.

Renters often look for properties that offer more than just a place to sleep because they also want an experience. A pickleball courts provides entertainment and a way for guests to stay active to help make their stay more enjoyable and memorable. Happy guests are always more likely to extend their stay or become repeat customers.

Improving the Experience For Guests

To truly make your pickleball courts a standout feature of your rental property, it’s important to go beyond just having the court itself. That’s why you should:

Provide Quality Equipment

While many pickleball enthusiasts travel with their own paddles, it’s a great idea to provide high-quality equipment for those who don’t. Stock your rental with a few sets of paddles and plenty of pickleballs so guests have everything they need to play a game or two

Add ‘Small’ Touches

Think about the little touches that can make a big difference. For instance, install a shaded seating area near the court where players can rest between games or watch others play. This could be as simple as a few benches under a canopy or a small gazebo. Water coolers or a hydration station near the court to keep guests refreshed along with some towels is also a good idea.

Offer Instructional Materials

Not all guests may be familiar with pickleball, so why not help them get started? Just buy some copies of pickleball guides or books that you can keep near the court so guests can refer to them. Alternatively, you could set up a sign that lists out the basic rules.

Enhance the Ambiance with Lighting

A well-lit court can allow for games to continue into the evening or even at night. All you’ll need to do is install soft, overhead lights that provide enough illumination without being too bright or overbearing.

Conclusion

Investing in a pickleball courts is a smart move for if you want to boost your backyard’s rental appeal and increase bookings. And only does it provide a great way for guests to socialize and stay active, it also adds value to your property.