Swimming Pools: Fun vs. Extra Money

Surely we don't have to tell you all the benefits of owning a swimming pool. From hosting great backyard get-togethers to taking a dip anytime you want, the benefits of having an in-ground pool at your house are self-apparent. Some homeowners miss the costs and potential drawbacks, of which there are many. 

The purpose of this piece is not to scare anybody away from having a pool. We would never think of coming between our clients and the joys of having your own swimming pool just footsteps from your back door. We want you to understand the pros as well as the cons so that you can make a well-informed decision.

Getting A Good Return On Your Investment

Many homeowners have an in-ground pool installed with the idea that it will increase the value of their home. Sometimes this idea works out, and sometimes it does not. It all comes down to getting a higher return on your investment than you put into it. Having a pool put in makes good financial sense if: 

• Your backyard is big enough to still offer plenty of open space after installing a pool.
• You live in a high-end neighborhood in which most of the homes have pools (in which case not having a pool could make your home harder to sell). 
• When you live in an area where the weather is warm most of the year, a pool offers more benefits. 

Whether or not a pool will boost your home's value also depends on the pool's style, condition, and age. Generally speaking, the more years go by after installation, the less likely a pool is to recoup its costs.

Considering The Costs

Surely, one wouldn't expect installing an in-ground pool to be cheap, but it's essential to examine the costs before you commit really. At present, the cost to install a 600-square-foot concrete pool starts at around $30,000. That's before factoring in the lighting, landscaping, and fencing — a safety fence around the lake is a requirement in many states — which leads many homeowners to pay nearly $100,000 when all is said and done.

Costs depend on the type of pool you choose. Fiberglass shells and pools with vinyl liners are less expensive but often need more maintenance. Some need to be replaced as frequently as every ten years. And not to focus too much on the negative, but you'll also be responsible for the ongoing costs of heating, filtration, and maintenance over the lifetime of your pool.

An in-ground pool might be a worthwhile investment, or you might be better off buying an above-ground pool, which will cost a fraction of the price but won't do much in the way of boosting your home's value. If you're still on the fence, talk to your real estate agent to help weigh the pros and cons.

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