Should you add a pool to your home? Examining value, location, and planning
Adding a pool to your home can be a big decision, here are some factors to consider
A pool can be a fun, attractive addition to a house and usually increases its value. But are the costs of installing and maintaining a pool worth it?
Here are some things to consider before you take the plunge.
Do you want to make your home more inviting and open? Adding a pool may be the solution. But before you commit, it's important to consider these factors about pools:
- The cost of building the pool
- How much space do you have in your yard?
- Do you want to install an above-ground or in-ground pool?
- What type of pool do you want?
Location
Most folks will recommend taking your location into consideration when making the decision to install your pool. California is usually a prime location for a pool location with its sunny weather and warm summers.
Benefits of a pool
Most homeowners will tell you that all the stress about deciding to build a pool was definitely worth it once they look back upon the priceless memories that were made splashing around with children, friends, and neighbors. Pools are a great place for families to gather and spend time together. They are fun and also provide a source of exercise.
It’s important to think of the cost of the pool as an investment in the time and enjoyment they had with the pool — they might not get the money back, but they’ll have the memories
Does it add value to your home?
Some experts say adding an in-ground pool to your home can add value. One HouseLogic study suggests an increase of 7 percent, at most, under ideal conditions, while HGTV reports that the average inground pool can up your property's value by 5 to 8 percent. Critics believe a pool can be a drawback because new homeowners fear the potential maintenance costs.
While some pools add more value than others, most appraisers agree that the addition of an above-ground pool should be based on the homeowner’s personal enjoyment rather than a means of driving up the home’s price. According to HouseLogic, even a pool that checks all the “smart investment” boxes would still only bring a maximum 7% increase in value.
Planning your build
As with most home improvement projects, the most convenient time to install a pool is during new construction. When you are building new, you can incorporate the pool directly into the landscaping plans to ensure there is enough room. During new construction is also the ideal time to run underground lines that are necessary for efficient pool operation. Building a pool as part of your new construction can also actually save you money as excavators, earth movers, and contractors are already on-site working on prepping the house.
Of course, there’s nothing wrong with a retrofit pool addition either. A swimming pool might not be feasible for the budget when first buying or building a house. After years of getting comfortable in a home, you may find you have the money saved for a more elaborate pool and surrounding deck than you would have when incorporating it into your new build.
Contact us today
If you have questions about building a pool, contact us at Builders Innovation Group. We would love to help build a pool from the ground up or incorporate it into an existing backyard.
