6 Considerations For Buying a Home with a Pool

Homebuyers who want to make a splash may consider buying a home with a pool. Imagine texting your friends and family, “Pool party at my place!” or simply enjoying a calm morning swim by yourself in your own backyard. Pool parties and peaceful swims may sound appealing, but there are some factors to take into consideration before diving headfirst into buying a home with a pool.   

Homebuyers who are looking for pools should ask some fundamental questions: “What does insurance coverage look like?”, “What does maintenance entail?”, “How much would we use the pool?”, and “What safety features do I need?” Here’s the good news: If you ask your REMAX® agent these questions, then home/pool shopping should be a walk in the park—or should we say a dip in the pool? In fact, if you start planning during your home search, you’ll be enjoying poolside moments with friends and family in no time!  

Consider the Climate 

Location can make all the difference when thinking about buying a house with a pool. If you live somewhere like southern Florida, you will probably use your pool year-round. Live in New England? You’re probably looking at pool season from Memorial Day to Labor Day. It’s important to note that winter climates require winterization for a pool. This means you’ll have to cover and drain the pool among other seasonal tasks. There is always the option to splurge on a heated pool through the winter months, however this will likely increase utility costs.  

Your climate will also have an effect on the wear and tear of your pool. If you’re in a hot and dry climate, keeping up with coating and paint may be more of an expense. While being in rainy environment like Seattle you may have to keep an eye out for algae and moss.  

Insurance and Taxes 

Buying a home with a pool will most likely increase your insurance premiums. Rates vary by state, but most have higher rates for homeowners with pools. Due to the increased liability of a pool (flooding, drowning, accidents, etc.) you’ll also probably need to include more coverage on your insurance than you normally would sans pool. Depending on your state, there may be some insurance discounts for pools that feature safety equipment like covers and fences.  

Having a pool can also lead to higher property taxes. Pools are classified as a permanent fixture to your property and can add value to it. The higher your appraised value, the higher your property taxes. Appraisers take into consideration: Pool size and type (above vs. in-ground), the quality of the pool, and the market conditions – more on that later. 

Complying with Safety Measures

When buying a home with a pool it’s crucial to check with your local and state building codes and regulations. Certain municipalities have stricter rules than others, especially when it comes to safety requirements. As mentioned above, covers and fences may help keep insurance costs lower, but that’s not all. Both of these safety features can help prevent drownings and keep animals out of the area. They also might be mandatory in some states. If you’re in an HOA, they may have some restrictions on pool maintenance schedules or operating hours. Others may not even allow pools at all. 

Teaching water safety to any age, though especially children, is important. Always provide younger guests with floaties, lifejackets, pool noodles or any other safety equipment. This will keep everyone comfortable and safe while swimming. And never, ever leave a child alone while they’re in or around an open pool.  

Effect on Resale Value 

Not all pools add values to homes. In some markets, pools can be seen as desirable amenities that can boost sale price. In others, they may be seen as a maintenance headache and not worth the wear and tear. In hotter climates, pools can be common and expected – meaning if you don’t have a pool, your property could theoretically be worth less. The opposite can be true as well. If you live in a cooler climate, and you are the only household with a pool in the neighborhood, your housing appraisal could be higher. 

Try to consider the demographics of your area as well. Families with younger children might love the idea of a pool, while retirees may prefer a low-maintenance backyard. You don’t have to predict the future, but you can put some thought into who may be buying your house in years to come.  

Evaluate Your Pool Lifestyle 

That pool looks amazing in your backyard… but do you use it? Think about how much, realistically, you and your family will be in and around the pool. Try to think of your typical schedules. Some great questions include: “Will I be home enough to justify the cost?”, “Do I travel frequently for work?”, and “Will my kids enjoy swimming?” 

Consider longer terms plans too. If you’re just about to have a child, think about the busy first few months / years of having a newborn. If your kids are older, they may not hang around home as much and therefore not use the pool as much. Try to reflect on your maintenance schedule as well. Some people love the upkeep a pool comes with; while others underestimate the hard work that goes into a functioning pool. Testing water PH and skimming the pool are weekly and daily tasks that need to be kept up with.  

Maintenance Costs 

Monthly pool maintenance isn’t just buying chlorine and dumping it into the pool. You’re looking at a few different chemicals, testing supplies, equipment repairs, and energy costs. Pool pumps, heaters, and filtration systems also don’t last forever and need maintenance.  

Don’t forget about seasonal costs either. Opening and closing a pool professionally can cost you several hundred dollars each time. If you’re in a climate where winterization is necessary – then that’s a yearly cost to add in as well.  

Making the Right Choice 

Pool ownership can be a wonderful experience for those who are prepared. There’s something to be said about having your own personal oasis in your backyard. But like many home features, pools require careful consideration for your circumstances. Take a look at your climate, budget, lifestyle and long-term plans. If they all line up with a pool, then dive right in! If you’re facing some hesitation, maybe it’s not the time for a pool.  

If you buy a home with a pool – you’re committing to pool ownership for as long as you live in that house. The right pool for the right household can be a fantastic addition for any family. Just make sure to do your research, ask the right questions, and you’ll be lounging by your pool so soon!