As I write this the temperature is pushing 95 degrees and although I have no plans to leave the air-conditioned office if I did, I would immediately jump into our pool (if we had one). So, if you are thinking of buying a house with a swimming pool or installing one in your current home, you should consider all aspects of pool ownership before taking the plunge (sorry). While owning a home with a pool can be terrific on hot summer days it can also come with a few negative consequences. From the price of pool maintenance, the higher cost of insurance, the safety of your children and the impact on your property value, there’s plenty to think about when buying a house with a pool.
It’s Really Cool
There is no doubt having a pool on a hot summer day is great. Taking a dip after a long day in the sun is fantastic. Owning a pool gives you access to enjoy that dip anytime you want, no getting in a car to go to a friend’s house or to the YMCA or even the beach. Your home will be the envy of the neighborhood kids, and who doesn’t like having a pool party every now and then.
New England
We all know what the new England weather can be like. How many days out of the year will you really need a pool? While it’s really, really great when the temps are over 80 degrees, is it worth it you considering how many of those days we see each year in this part of the country? Something to think about.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Unfortunately, pools do require regular maintenance. Chemicals, cleaning and upkeep takes time and money. Don’t have the time or energy to take care of a pool? Fortunately, there are plenty of pool service companies available to help maintain your pool. Simply having a pool company come and service the pool doesn’t relieve you of all maintenance.
More Money
If you’re thinking of buying a home with a pool or installing a pool in your yard, be prepared for an increase in utility bills. Your electric and water bills will definitely go up. How much depends on the pool size and pump.
Insurance
Those buying a house with a pool will likely see their insurance premium higher than a home without one. Some companies won’t insure you at all or at exorbitant rates if you have a diving board due to increased injury risk.
Safety First
It’s critical that you and take the necessary precautions when buying a house with a pool. While you may have all the preventative and protective measures installed, including a safety fence, locks on doors leading to the pool and teaching your kids the rules, you can’t always control what the neighborhood kids or your guests are up to.
Protect
Most towns require that homeowners install some sort of fence around the perimeter of their pool for safety purposes. The idea is to prevent people from jumping in your pool. Not every town has the same zoning regulations, so be sure to check before installing a pool in your home.
Space is Needed
Do you have enough yard? I have been to some homes that the only thing in their backyard is the pool. Not ideal. You may have enough room for a pool but do you have room for a patio or deck? Where is the septic system? Is any part of it in the backyard? If so, you may not even have the option of putting a pool in.
Having a pool can be a lot of fun. In the summer your kids are much more likely to stay home and have their friends over the house. Taking a swim after or before work can be refreshing and a good source of exercise. In my 19+ years as a REALTOR® I am often asked if having a pool is a plus? My short answer is a resounding yes. While many buyers don’t want a pool there are some that require a pool or space to put one when they are searching. These buyers will pay top dollar for a home with a pool. Certainly a nice in ground pool in a pretty setting can certainly increase the value of your home even here in New England. Today would be the day that most homeowners would gladly pay extra for a pool.
If you have any questions about these real estate terms, or are looking to buy or sell a home please contact me, John McCarthy at Rowley Realty, 165 Main St., Rowley, MA 01969, Phone: 978 948-2758, Cell 978 835-2573 or via email at john@rowleyrealestate.com.
