Again, not a simple answer. (Trying to get the tough ones out of the way first.) Pools are a very personal choice. Some things such as hardscaping and lighting can actually return as much or more than your original investment. The more you incorporate a pool into an outdoor living space that is multi-functional, as opposed to a detached one dimensional pool in the back forty, the more appealing it would be to others and the more return you will get on your investment.