Pros and Cons of Owning a Swimming Pool

For some, the dream of splashing around in their own pool, hosting pool parties, and having a space to relax and cool down during the summer is highly appealing. Others may see it as a hassle and not an amenity they would use. As a homeowner, there are several things to consider when buying a home with a pool or deciding to build a pool.  Here are some of the pros and cons of owning a pool:

Pros:

1. Personal Oasis: Creating your own oasis for relaxing and enjoying summer, definitely has its appeal! There is no dealing with crowds at beaches or public pools, and you know who has been in and out of your pool. The convenience of walking into your backyard and having summer entertainment right there is an amazing perk!
2. Family Bonding and Socializing: A swimming pool can create opportunities for quality family time and memorable moments with loved ones. The pool parties, family gatherings, and hours spent poolside are times that you’ll look back on fondly. Having a pool will make you the popular home during the summer!
3. Health and Fitness: Regular access to a swimming pool encourages physical activity and promotes a healthier lifestyle. It provides a convenient and refreshing way to exercise, improve cardiovascular fitness, build muscle strength, and maintain overall well-being.

Cons:

1. Installation and Maintenance Costs: If there isn’t a pool on your property already, building a swimming pool is costly! Excavation, construction, permits, and landscaping all play into the cost. Additionally, ongoing maintenance expenses, such as water treatment, energy for filtration and heating systems, repairs, and regular servicing, can add up over time.
2. Upkeep: Owning a pool requires regular maintenance to keep it clean, safe, and operational. This includes tasks like cleaning debris, checking and adjusting water chemistry, maintaining equipment, and ensuring proper pool circulation. There is also the process of opening and closing a pool that happens in Michigan. All of these tasks can be time-consuming and may require investing in pool cleaning tools or hiring professionals for maintenance.
3. Safety and Liability: Pools present inherent safety risks, especially for homeowners. There is a responsibility to implement safety measures like pool fencing, alarms, and covers to prevent accidents, particularly involving children and pets. There is also some added expense when it comes to insurance too to cover that liability. Failure to adhere to safety standards could expose homeowners to liability concerns.
4. Seasonal Limitations: As we all know, Michigan has 4 seasons, and that limits the use of a pool. The average pool season spans from May to September in Michigan, so some people may see a pool as a lot of work for so little time using it.
5. Less Yard: A pool takes up space, and that is something to think about when building one. If you don’t have much yard space, a pool might not be the best idea, especially if you still want that yard space. Pools can come in a variety of sizes and shapes (especially if you do an inground pool) so you may find something that can work in your space, but the size of your yard is definitely a factor you want to consider when building a pool.

What about home value?

A well-maintained and visually appealing swimming pool may enhance the value of your property. Because the majority of homes aren’t built with pools, it can be an attractive feature that sets your home apart from others in the real estate market. This can potentially lead to a higher resale value. However, what type of pool you have can play into home value. Above-ground pools may not be considered in an appraisal if they aren’t attached to the home. It also depends on the market you’re in. Here in Michigan because of limited usage, it might not have the same value as a home in southern states or places it is warm longer. And there will always be people who won’t want a pool, so that is also something to think about when considering building a pool or buying a home with a pool.

As a homeowner, there are a few pros and cons that are good to think through when considering building a pool or buying a home with a pool. However, most times the decision comes down to what you want. If you’re going to be staying in your home for a long time (over 5 years) and want to create a summer fun space for you and your family, go for it and build that pool! If you want help considering if a pool is right for you and maybe understanding more of the ROI behind such a project, contact us, and we can do a free consultation for you so you know your home’s value and how a pool could affect it.