With summer here, everyone finds a way to beat the heat. One of the most popular ways to cool off is to take a dip in a pool.  Whether it be a community pool, a neighbor /family members or our own; nothing is better than jumping in a nice cold pool after a long day out in the heat.

If you are in the process of home searching, you may be thinking, “Hey, what if we buy a house that has a pool!”  It seems like a good idea, but before you take the plunge, read all the pros and cons of pool ownership.

The first thing to remember is proper pool maintenance is very important, and also make sure your pool complies with federal and local pool barrier laws regarding  safety regulations.

There are three types of home buyers when it comes to buying a home with a pool- people who only want to look at homes with pools; people who won’t look at homes with a pool; and people who never thought about a pool.

Home buyers who won’t look at homes without a pool think a home is not complete without a pool.  In the warm states, pools are very popular and are used year round.

Home buyers who won’t look at homes with pools may have small children and are worried about safety.  Others don’t want the upkeep or expense that comes with having a pool.

There are different kinds of pools to consider; gunite, vinyl, and above-ground pools.  Gunite is the most popular.  It is a concrete and sand mixture and is a permanent structure and can be laid out in almost any shape.  It last for years, but can get pricey.  Vinyl pools are generally rectangular, but are available in a few other shapes.  They are less expensive than gunite, but the lining has to be replaced after 10 years.    Vinyl pools are popular in the colder states where the temperatures fall below freezing and are drained in the winter months.  Above ground pools add no value to a home because they are portable.  They are inexpensive and some home owners even buy do-it-yourself kits and can have them complete within a few days as opposed to in-ground pools which can take weeks to complete.

Many advantages come with owning a home with a pool, as well as disadvantages.  Many people feel pools increase the aesthetic value to their yard.  Pools provide a means of entertainment for parties and kids, and also an easy way to cool down.  Some use their pools for in-water exercises and other health benefits.  Depending on where you live, pools can bring added value at re-sale (about 7.7% more in value in the warmer states).

The disadvantages of owning a home with a pool come with the cost of maintenance and insurance.  Pools require regular care- chemicals, cleaning and repair; also if you choose to heat your pool- utility bills will increase.  It might also cost more to insure your home if you have a pool.  Safety is another issue, drowning is the leading cause of accidental death among children ages 1 to 4.  Pools also take up valuable yard space and can overwhelm a small yard.  Even though they may add value at resale, home with pools appeal to fewer buyers.

Before diving into buying a home with pool, remember all the advantages and disadvantages that come with it.  The Mickey Group is here for all your Home Buying/ Selling needs.