1. What is the first thing I should understand about owning a pool?
Understand what it is to which you are committing. Owning a pool is a great responsibility that will demand your time and resources.
2. How much time will I need to spend on my pool?
Caring for your pool will be a daily necessity. Some days may only require five minutes of your time, while others may require an hour or more.
3. How much money will I spend on my pool?
You may expect to spend between $50-100 per month on DIY maintenance; more if you hire a service. Additionally, it would be wise to budget $500-800 per year on servicing your equipment.
4. Can I maintain and/or service my pool myself?
Yes. However, it is important to acquire the proper knowledge to do so. A good local pool shop will offer tutorials on operating your equipment, basic water chemistry, and general cleaning procedures.
5. Does a pool add value to my home?
While the presence of a pool may help your home sell faster, you should not expect to recoup your financial investment. Think of it instead as an investment in quality of life.
6. Is it safe to own a pool?
Having a pool does create a particular set of dangers. There are common steps that you can, and should, take to mitigate these dangers though. Safety covers and fences are strongly recommended to keep children and animals safe in your backyard.
7. What about diving boards and water slides?
As fun as they may be, diving boards and slides do indeed add another element of danger. In fact, these items may cause underwriters to pass on providing your homeowner’s insurance.
8. Wait! I need to insure my pool?
You will very likely need to expand your insurance premium, which may increase your payment. Side note – it would be prudent to inquire about extending your home warranty to cover your pool equipment.
9. Anything else I should know?
When buying a home with an existing pool, spending a few hundred dollars on a pool inspection will almost certainly save you money, and a headache, in the future.
