Is Adding a Pool Worth It? Pros, Cons, and Tips for Homeowners
Installing a pool in your home can be exciting, but it may not be the best option for all homeowners. While pools can add property and entertainment value, they are also significant investments that require money and hard work. For many homeowners, the decision comes down to weighing the pros and cons to determine if it’s truly worth it. It’s important to dive in and thoroughly research all potential benefits and drawbacks before making a firm choice.
The Pros of Adding a Pool
Pools are a ton of fun. They can teach your family to swim, add some wonderful enrichment opportunities, and keep you active. There’s a ton of potential property value in a pool, too.
It Boosts Value
A well-maintained pool can increase the appeal and value of your property, particularly in warm climates where pools are highly desired. In-ground pools are more permanent, sturdy fixtures that will boost your property’s value more than an above-ground pool that requires frequent replacement. In certain neighborhoods, a pool is even necessary to stay competitive in the market. If you plan on selling your home, a pool is a great choice for future investment.
Great Entertainment
A pool and its surrounding deck provide ample space and opportunity to entertain guests or family. Pools are a natural focal point for entertainment regardless of how social you are. Whether you want to enjoy a relaxing weekend with a friend or throw a house party, a pool is an excellent choice to satisfy you and your guests.
Promotes Exercise and Movement
Swimming requires mobility, strength, flexibility, and stamina while simultaneously being low-impact. It’s a great form of exercise for all ages, promoting health while still having fun. Swimming is perfect for muscle toning, cardio, and joint health. Having a pool at home makes it easy to incorporate fitness into your daily routine.
Enhances the Outdoor Space
Homeowners who need help designing their outdoor space may find a pool that meets their expectations very well. A pool can transform a backyard into a luxurious retreat, especially when paired with landscaping, lighting, and lounge areas. It can be the focal point of the backyard and promote enjoyment of the home’s outdoor space and the surrounding nature.
The Cons of a Home Pool
A pool isn’t for everyone. In particularly cold climates or with families who aren’t a fan of swimming, you won’t get much bang for your buck in a home pool. There are a few important considerations before taking the plunge.
Expensive Installation
Depending on size, materials, and features, a pool can run a really high upfront cost. An in-ground pool will add the most property value in most markets, but they’re considerably more expensive to install than an above-ground pool. You can expect to pay at least $30,000-$100,000, depending on what you want. You can utilize local buyers and suppliers and compare plenty of quotes to reduce costs, however. (I found some concrete pumping near me that reduced labor costs by quite a bit.) You’ll need to do a bit of research to find the most cost-effective installation for your home and needs.
More Maintenance
Pools require regular upkeep. You need to clean the pool, change the pool filter, balance chemicals, and repair equipment when necessary. This maintenance is time-consuming and can add to the lengthy list of responsibilities for some homeowners. Maintenance also affects your home’s expenses. Expect to spend, on average, $1,000 to $3,000 more per year on maintaining your pool.
Location Matters
You’re not going to see a lot of value in a pool that is mostly cold year-round. Some markets may find a pool more trouble than it’s worth, which can deter homebuyers if you ever want to sell. You’re not going to get a return on investment (ROI) in every location or home where you install a pool. Consider where you live before diving in, including the average climate and the typical desire for a pool.
Insurance Costs
Pools deal with a lot of water and chemicals, which may lead to damage to your home in worst-case scenarios. They can also be considered an “attractive nuisance” that can entice people, mostly children, to use the pool, which can be a liability. You may deal with increased home insurance premiums for these reasons. Check with your insurance policy and speak with an insurance agent to see if these factors will raise your premiums should you install a pool.
Final Thoughts
Adding a pool is a personal decision that depends on your lifestyle, budget, and local market conditions. For some, the joy of having a private swimming space outweighs the costs and upkeep. For others, practical considerations like maintenance and safety concerns may make it less appealing. Consider the local market in regards to the desire and practicality of a pool.
Choose the right type of pool to meet your family’s needs and budget. Install safety features to reduce the risk of injury or damage. Utilizing energy-efficient pumps, heaters, and lighting can reduce the overall maintenance costs. Consult with experts to ensure you’re getting the best deal on supplies, installation, equipment, and maintenance. There’s no wrong decision as long as it is an informed one.
