House Hunting with a Pool in Mind: What You Should Know
June 5, 2020
If you’re on the hunt for a new home this summer, a backyard with a pool might be hard to resist. You likely can envision yourself floating in the water, having friends over for pool parties, and all the other perks that come with being a pool owner. But before you take the plunge, do your research, and consider these pros and cons of owning a pool.
Size
How much of the backyard is taken up by the pool? If you hate to mow, an expansive pool with little surrounding grass may be appealing. But if you have pets or little ones itching to run around, this detail might be one you can’t overlook.
Style
From shape, to depth, to location (above or below ground), you’ll be faced with numerous decisions even after you say yes to a pool itself. Many don’t love the appearance of an above ground version, but you are granted more flexibility as it’s not a permanent fixture. If you’re touring a home with a traditional pool and you don’t love the look, don’t forget there are stylistic options, like upgrading to a Mediterranean pool with Greek or Roman shapes and ceramic tiles, that might be worth investigating.
Maintenance
The upkeep of your pool isn’t just about maintaining the look (though it is a major factor in your pool’s appearance). It’s also critical in keeping your pool safe and clean. If you can’t imagine fitting one more chore into your schedule (or hiring someone else to take over), then opt out of pool ownership. Over the course of a year, you’re likely to spend an average of $4000 on maintenance, water, and electricity.
Miscellaneous
If you’re house hunting in cooler climates, you’ll want to consider how much time out of the year you’ll actually be able to enjoy your pool and whether the work is worth it. You’ll also want to be cognizant of what a pool in the particular neighborhood you’re shopping does for resale. Talk with your realtor about what hesitations future buyers might experience.
Deciding to Take the Plunge
A major factor in choosing a new home comes down to whether you can picture yourself and your family relaxing, having fun, and making memories there. A pool could certainly add to those possibilities, but pool ownership isn’t for everyone. Consider your options, remember our tips, and then rest easy in your decision.
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