The idea of lounging poolside in your own backyard sounds like a dream! Splashing in the pool on hot summer days. Having poolside parties on those long summer evenings. Swimming laps in your pool after work. Having your own pool may sound like a dream, but is owning a pool home really the right move for you? Before diving into a home with a pool, here are some important pros and cons to consider.
The Perks of Pool Living
1. Built-in Entertainment
Hosting summer parties, cookouts, or casual weekend hangouts is easy when you have a pool. Everyone wants to come over and enjoy your pool. It’s a perfect space for entertaining guests or enjoying family time.
2. Staycation Vibes
Turn your backyard into a private oasis. Whether you’re floating under the sun or unwinding after work, a pool offers resort-style relaxation at home. You don’t have to leave home to feel like you’re on vacation.
3. Health & Fitness Benefits
Swimming is a full-body workout that’s easy on the joints. Having a pool just steps away makes it easier to stay active. You can swim before or after work, or on weekends, and swimming and playing in the pool is a fun workout.
4. Increased Curb Appeal
A well-maintained pool and patio can boost your home’s value and marketability—especially to buyers who are specifically seeking one. A backyard oasis can increase buyer’s interest and increase your home’s market value.
5. Family-Friendly Fun
Pools offer a fun and convenient way for kids (and kids at heart!) to enjoy the outdoors more often. You don’t have to drive anywhere. Just head to the backyard for hours of enjoyment.
The Down Side of Pool Homes
1. Maintenance & Upkeep
Pools require regular cleaning, chemical balancing, and equipment maintenance. Keeping a pool property maintained is time-consuming and added monthly expenses with chemicals and cleaning. There could also be major expenses, such as a new pool liner, with pool ownership.
2. Safety First
Owners of homes with pools need to be extra cautious when it comes to child and pet safety. Pool fences, covers, and alarms may be required or highly recommended to keep everyone safe.
3. Higher Insurance Costs
Insurance premiums may increase due to the added liability of a pool. It’s smart to check with your provider before buying a home with a pool to find out what the extra cost will be.
4. Limited Use in Colder Climates
Unless your pool is heated, it might only get used during certain months—potentially limiting the return on your investment. Pool heaters can add to your utility costs, and closing/opening the pool can add to your expenses as well.
5. HOA or Local Regulations
Some communities and townships have rules around pools, including fencing requirements, noise restrictions, or added fees. Always check with your local township and community before you buy a home with a pool.
Should You Dive In? Ask yourself these questions. Will you use it often enough to justify the cost and maintenance? Do you have the time (and budget) to care for it properly? Does it suit your lifestyle and long-term plans? For some, a pool is the ultimate dream feature. For others, it might be more work than it’s worth. Either way, knowing the full picture helps you make the right splash when buying your next home!
Need help finding the perfect pool home—or one without a pool? Let’s talk!
