You are excited and there is an air of anticipation as you consider moving. There will always be people who say “now is not the right time.” Yet, a major factor in timing is whether you have the right deposit, and second, how attractive the new place you intend to move to is.
With that in mind, maybe you are considering buying a house with a pool. If you are interested in owning a home with a pool, you are not on your own. According to the Association for Pool and Spa Professionals (APSP), in 2015 there were over 5 million homes with in-ground pools.
More and more things that we considered luxury are becoming more and more accessible. Is that true when it comes to owning a home with a swimming pool?
Interestingly, the key to this decision is not owning the pool itself but considering what it takes to maintain the pool, and ensure it is safe for you and your family. Read on to learn what you need to know before buying a house with a pool.
Is Your Wallet Deep Enough?
It is reasonable to think having your own pool will save money by not using a pool at the gym or health club. Or, if you have a family, it may even save expensive holidays to the beach.
However, overall the privilege and convenience of owning your own pool will cost you a lot of money. Pools need ongoing maintenance. That requires time and effort, and if you haven’t got those, it will definitely cost you more money as you hire someone to do it for you.
You can expect to pay several hundred dollars a year on electricity bills just to operate the water pump. Further, you will need to change the water in the pool. The cost of filling a pool with water could be over $100 depending on the size.
The pool will need cleaning and the pump will need servicing. This will add to the monthly operating cost. Plus, you will need to consider how the pool will affect your home insurance.
So the short story is, if you want a pool, you must be prepared for the ongoing cost. Having a pool will not save money but cost money.
Think Safety
The demographic for homeowners with pools shows that at least half of the owners have a family. Children love the pool and it is a major draw for them and their friends.
However, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, drownings are the leading cause of injury death in 1 to 14-year-olds, and 3 children every day die from drowning.
Even though these are scary statistics, the main reason for a casualty is a lack of general safety. Pools need to be fenced off and adults need to supervise their children when using the pool.
It is also very wise to be trained in basic resuscitation skills.
Pools cost money and that is accepted but they do not have to cost lives. Think safety and put the proper safety measures in place and you will enjoy having a home pool with your family.
Improved Physical, Mental, and Emotional State
Everything you have read so far might put you off having a pool. Don’t let it!
There are many good reasons to have a pool. Some would say that having a pool leads to a better physical, mental and emotional state.
Swimming is accepted as an excellent all-body exercise that can contribute to better overall health. Being near a body of water is associated with a calming and meditative effect that can help us relax and improve our emotional state.
Some would say that whatever the cost if it leads to better mental health it is worth it. Actually, a swimming pool may not be as expensive as you think as there are money options from in-ground to above ground pools with a wide range of costs and associated maintenance costs.
Do Your Homework Before Buying a House with a Pool
If you are in the market for a new home and you want a pool, then do your homework first. Think about what type of pool will suit your needs, its size, maintenance costs, and how it affects the overall look and feel of the property.
A well-chosen, designed, and installed pool will enhance the space it is located in and add value to the property. If the pool is poor quality or poorly situated, it will, in fact, detract from the main property and even be viewed as a burden rather than an asset.
Are You Ready to Take the Plunge?
As you have read in this article, there are several serious considerations before buying a house with a pool. Money and safety are two thought-provoking factors.
Yet, if you take a balanced view, it is easy to see that there is a lot to gain from having your own pool. Not least, a better quality of life and even a boost in your social life. It will also likely win you ‘Dad of the Year’ with the kids.
Before you take the plunge, talk to others and draw on their first-hand experience. You may be surprised at what they tell you.
In the meantime, you can rely on us for more lifestyle articles and advice. Check out our blog for “How to Pick the Perfect Size Pool for Your Family.”
