Pickleball noise concerns impact real estate sales

While America's pickleball craze continues to grow, a specific group of homeowners is expressing discontent: those living near pickleball courts.

An increasing number of homeowners nationwide are reporting that the noise from pickleball games—characterized by the repetitive sound of the ball and occasional player outbursts—is not only bothersome but also detrimental to their property values and sale prospects.

In Sagamore Beach, Cape Cod, sellers have been unable to sell their home for seven months despite several price reductions. They attribute this difficulty to noise from adjacent private club pickleball courts and have hired legal representation to close the court until their house is sold. “It clearly qualifies as a nuisance sound” and is “not something that can be mitigated,” their attorney told the Boston Globe.

Similarly, in San Francisco, six courts at Presidio Wall Playground were closed in 2023 after nearby residents filed a petition citing noise issues. Ironically, these residents had a private pickleball court on their property, which they later sold for $24 million.

The tension surrounding pickleball has escalated in places like Needham, MA, where vandals damaged nets at local courts. Residents described the situation as “a war.”

The impact of pickleball courts on home values varies. Realtor.com senior economist Hannah Jones stated that noisy attractions might deter some buyers while attracting others who enjoy active environments. “Overall,” she concluded, “it is likely that nearby attractions, such as a pickleball court, will skew a home’s appeal to certain types of buyers.”

Real estate agents have noted an increase in issues related to proximity to pickleball courts. Josh Judge of Verani Realty reported instances where potential buyers lost interest upon discovering nearby courts. Judge also mentioned complaints about noise from neighbors living near his gym's pickleball courts.

As the sport's popularity grows and noise complaints rise, some communities are seeking solutions. Braintree, MA allocated $22,000 for acoustic panels after residents complained about newly built courts. Other measures include restricting play times or relocating courts away from residential areas.

However, not all reactions are negative. Las Vegas resident Sandy Selig lives next to community pickleball courts and finds the sounds occasionally distracting but generally soothing due to her love for the game. “Sometimes when I hear it, it makes me want to get out there and play,” she said.