I have a small pond and have seen some great water features that are pondless and I know ponds are not a selling point for house but seems water features are .I am not planning on selling but wonder which you would really chose if you had the option .
I want it all - in a perfect world I'd have a large garden with a couple of fountains AND a pond w/ a waterfall. And a full time gardener to maintain it. Love the sound of water and if I can't live at the beach the next best thing is water in the back yard. There are few things more relaxing, IMO. I'm not sure if a fountain or a pond would help the resale - I'd think it would be individual taste and circumstances, as well as location. I love the idea of a wall fountain in a foyer. Almost had one of my clients talked into it, but they had 2 very active young boys (AKA as the Demons From A Very Warm Place) and they figured it wouldn't be too practical.
I have a pond and as I said not planning on selling but I thought if you were thinking of selling a pondless would be good feature for a home sale .I have been even considering putting in a pondless feature on the other side on a slopping front yard .A pond does not mean hard work and I have learned how to make it easy by keeping it natural .Filters have plants growing in them so they never need cleaned and water crystal clear .I guess space would have to be in consideration and also child safety .I forgot kiddies can be a considering factor also .
