When you’re looking for a new house, you have a lot of factors to consider. When that house has a pool, it becomes a big one. Having your own pool can be a great place to swim, relax, and have fun outdoors during the hot summer, but it can also become an issue if you’re not careful. Here are some of the pros and cons of buying a house with a pool to help you make the best decision for you.
The Pros of Buying a House With a Pool
The main advantages of buying a house with a pool already installed are the convenience of not having to install one yourself and the increased aesthetic appeal compared to a house without a pool. These make buying a house with a pool ideal for homeowners who want a nice outdoor space without putting in a lot of time and money.
✓ Convenience
Buying a house with a pool means that swimmers don’t have to install one themselves or go to a public pool if they want to swim or exercise. You also don’t have to worry about sharing the pool with other people like you would have to at a public pool.
✓ Attractive
Pools are very attractive and can make your backyard look great. In-ground pools are especially attractive, and you can decorate your new pool however you’d like. With the proper care, your pool can become a centerpiece for your landscape and turn it from a yard to an oasis.
✓ Value
Your home’s value increases with a pool, especially if you make improvements to the pool after buying it, such as fountains or waterfalls. These renovations can be costly in the short term, but if you decide to move again, they could be just what you need to bump up your final selling price.
✓ Entertaining
Your poolside is a great place to entertain guests and have a lot of fun in the summertime, or year-round in some places. Even if you don’t choose to swim, relaxing by the poolside with some refreshments is a great way to spend time with your family or friends.
The Cons of Buying a House With a Pool
However, buying a house with a pool also has downsides. Namely, the extra expense a pool carries and the fact that you can’t customize the pool to your liking. These factors make buying a house with a pool less than ideal for homeowners who have a certain idea of what they want their pool to be, or who are trying to get a good deal on their home.
✗ Repairs
Pools need occasional repairs, and if you’re buying a house with one built in, you may have to make some right away. You should always ask to see the results of a recent pool inspection if you’re looking to buy a house with a pool, so you know you won’t have to dump money into it right away.
✗ Maintenance
A lot of pool maintenance is required to keep a pool in working order. This includes keeping the pH level balanced, maintaining a pool pump, and other types of pool care. Certain pool types, such as saltwater pools, require more maintenance than others.
✗ Expense
Pools carry a high cost. This includes increased homeowner’s insurance costs, energy bills, and maintenance costs. In addition, home buyers pay more for the house, and may have more difficulty with a resale if they choose to move again down the line.
✗ Liability
Pools are a safety risk, especially to young children. If an accident occurs because of your swimming pool, you can be held legally liable. In some places, such as Florida, they count as an attractive nuisance.
✗ No Customization
Buying a house with a pool means that you don’t get to choose the style or size without costly renovations, especially if it’s an in-ground pool. Even if it’s something as simple as the pool tiles, you should ask yourself if you like the pool as-is and are willing to keep it. If the answer is no, ask yourself if you’re willing to spend the time, money, and energy to change it.
Should I Buy a House With a Pool?
The pros of buying a house with a pool can certainly outweigh the cons. If you truly like a house and the pool it comes with, it’s within your means, and you understand all the pros and cons involved, then it might be a good fit for you. Pools are great places to relax, swim, and have some fun in the sun, and getting a house with one already built in means that you can enjoy yours without the hassle of installation.
However, if you aren’t happy with the pool’s inspection results, don’t have the annual budget for maintenance, or are concerned about the safety of your children, then buying a house with a pool might bring you more stress than relaxation.
FAQ About Pools
If it doesn’t already have one, it’s best to install a pool fence. Most areas require a pool to have a fence by law. Even if it isn’t a legal requirement, however, you should still have one for safety reasons. Note that a fence surrounding your backyard does not count. You need a dedicated pool fence to meet the legal requirements.
Most likely, yes. You don’t know how well the previous owners took care of the pool or what kind of routine they used, so it’s best to do a deep clean on your new pool at your first convenience.
Yes, you can convert your existing chlorine pool to a saltwater pool. On average, saltwater conversion costs between $908 and $2,393.
Ease the Stress and Hire a Pool Pro
Finding a house with a pool already built in can save you a lot of time, money, and effort. Consider your options carefully before making a decision on your new house.
If you need service on your new pool contact your local pool professionals. They can help you service your pool and turn your backyard into a space you can truly relax in.
Main Photo Credit: Nicholas J Klein / Canva Pro / License
