Are you ready to hit your home buying adventure with a checklist that spells A-Z, with “S” being swimming pool? Not surprisingly, many home buyers appreciate viewing homes with a pool because it’s one of those features that clearly define a space for relaxation and recreation. Except for a select few who are aquaphobic, a lot of people wish to have a swimming pool — well, at least until they find out how much a pool costs.
Before you say “yes” to a home with a swimming pool — be it outdoor or indoor — we encourage you to really weigh the pros and cons of having one. You may find this article a lifesaver when the time comes that you realize you made the right decision of having or not having a pool.
Pros and Cons of Swimming Pools
Most people would agree that swimming pools are marks of luxury; that only people who have the money are able to buy homes with a pool or have a pool constructed in their homes. Looking at the bright side, though, pools do provide some benefits to homeowners. The question is, are you willing to disregard the disadvantages for the benefits? Let’s find out more about them below.
Easy Access Recreational Space
When you have a pool in your home, you no longer have to travel elsewhere and spend on gas, entrance fees/membership fees just to swim in a pool. Your pool can be a space where you, your family, and your friends can spend quality time together privately. And lastly, pools are great areas for exercise, supporting you in your healthy lifestyle!
Cooling During the Summer
As summers in Georgia can be very hot and humid (72oF – 110oF), pools can be a great source of relief. You won’t have to turn on your air conditioning as much because you can always take a dip in the pool.
Costly to Operate and Maintain (Electricity, Water Bill, Professional Maintenance)
The main reason for those who opt not to have a pool in their homes is because pools, frankly, are expensive to operate and maintain. Even if it’s not used as much, it has to be inspected and maintained regularly because:
- Stagnant pool water may promote the growth of algae
- Organic matter may settle in your pool and promote the growth of bacteria
If it’s always in use, more maintenance is needed.
Invite “Outsiders” (Animals)
Pools are a source of drinking water for animals, to say the least. Others, like pond-dwelling animals, invade pools, especially when their natural habitat has been disturbed. To prevent any of these, homeowners typically install a pool cover, which is, of course, an additional expense.
Health & Safety Risks
Apart from being very slippery areas, pools can be a great medium for disease-causing bacteria. Some of the most common health risks associated with swimming pools are diarrhea, eye infections, and skin rashes. That’s why regular maintenance is important.
Costs of Swimming Pools
As mentioned, having a pool requires you to have a budget for operation and maintenance. According to Home Advisor, homeowners can expect to pay up to $3,200/year for operating costs and repairs, plus an additional $2,000/year to maintain it.
Operating Costs
Water in swimming pools needs to be kept moving to prevent stagnation. Filters usually do the trick for this one. There are different types of water filters in swimming pools, but regardless, energy costs are incurred to keep the water pump filter going.
Another operating cost is the lights. Unless you strictly don’t allow night swimming, you’ll have to install swimming pool lights which again will need electricity to work.
Maintenance Costs
Some of the basic maintenance works necessary for swimming pools include:
- Water chemistry testing
- Checking of water level
- Brushing surfaces
- Checking filters
- Checking and calibrating pool equipment
- Cleaning traps
- Pool skimming
- Taking out leaves, branches, and other debris
- Water replacement
Types of Swimming Pools
Swimming pools come in different types, sizes, and shapes. There are in-ground pools, and there are above-ground pools. For in-ground pools, there are also different types including: cement pool, vinyl pool, and fiberglass pool (common ones).
The type of pool will affect the price of a home. However, if you’re wondering whether installing a pool in your home will add more value to your property in the future, you may want to do more research because some experts say that while pools are value-adding features, the difference in value is rarely significant.
If you need help looking for the right home — whether it’s with a pool or not — get in touch with us at HomeSold GA. We can help you look for and buy your dream home in the Peach State without causing you too much inconvenience.
Call us at 770 668 4888!