Should You Buy a Home with a Pool?

Nothing makes your home a summertime hangout quite like having a swimming pool in your backyard. In Tampa Bay, private swimming pools are a top wishlist item for buyers. Not just for the health benefits and keeping cool, but because they are a great place to host parties, unwind, and fully embrace the Florida lifestyle. Before you dive into the deep end of pool ownership, there are some things you should consider like pool maintenance, safety, and the impact a pool might have on your property value. 

Buying a House with a Pool is a Better Deal

To help you understand how much value a pool adds to your property let's talk about how much installing a pool costs. To install a basic inground pool in St.Petersburg/Tampa Bay, you’re looking at paying at least $50,000 to $70,000. In our area, a pool appreciates a home by around seven to eight percent. On a $400,000 to $500,000 home, that’s around $30,000 to $35,000. Therefore, it’s a better deal and financial purchase to buy a house with a pool than if you buy a house where you have to put a pool in. 

Pools Require Regular Maintenance and Cleaning

Make sure to consider the ongoing maintenance fees that will come with buying a home that already has a pool; especially in terms of time, money, and effort as an owner. For the most part, pools require weekly cleaning (skimming, vacuuming, scrubbing walls, running the filter, checking the water level) and chemical testing/balancing. This will all depend on the size, age, type of pool, and other factors. Don’t have the energy to take care of a pool? You can hire a local pool maintenance company to come weekly. Typically this will run you around $125/week, but get an estimate before committing. 

Don’t Forget to Factor in Safety and Insurance Requirements

Double check with your insurance agent before purchasing a house with a swimming pool that is covered by your home insurance. Insurance premiums could be higher with a pool because of the risk of pool-related injuries. Diving boards and slides can also affect your premium. If you have kids, make sure they know how to swim and invest in a safety fence around the pool. 

Find Your New Home with a Pool

There are many factors to consider, but many homeowners will tell you that the enjoyment of the pool is worth the extra cost and maintenance. We are here to help you make the most educated decision for you, your family, and your budget. If you’re ready to find your dream home and pool, sign up to look at current listings (https://rteam4u.com/listing) or give us a call (727-458-3463) today.