Should I Buy a Home with a Swimming Pool?

Many Virginia homeowners consider a swimming pool to be a necessity. But do swimming pools really increase the value of your home? In all reality, a swimming pool, if not well tended to, can actually become a major liability. At Burgess Inspections, Inc., we will help you determine if a swimming pool is worth the investment.

Does a Pool Increase a Home's Value?

Many potential buyers look at a swimming pool as an investment, thinking the pool will help them sell the home in the future. Even in the best of circumstances, a swimming pool will only potentially increase your home's value by 7%. This, however, depends on several factors:

• If your home is in a neighborhood where most of the neighbors have a pool, then a pool is a good investment. Everyone wants to keep up with the Joneses.
• Because Virginia winters are too cold for swimming, your pool is only useful during the summer. This can make a pool more of a detriment than an asset.
• How big is the yard? If a pool takes up most of the yard, it can be seen as a negative during a home evaluation.  Alternatively, a spacious lot with room to swim and play tends to increase home value.
• Consider the age and condition of the pool. A new, well-maintained pool will likely add value to your home, whereas an older pool will not.

Pool Expenses

If you decide to purchase a home with a swimming pool, consider the costs of upkeep and insurance. Pool filtration pumps cost approximately $500 to replace and require electricity to run. If the pool is heated, you also need to account for the increased price of gas or electricity to run the heater. Additionally, pool chemicals can cost upward of $600 a summer. Other fees include solar covers, professional opening and closing services, cleaning equipment, increased liability insurance, and increased property taxes.

Schedule a Pool Inspection

While a pool may or may not increase your home's value, its impact on your lifestyle is also important to consider. If you decide a swimming pool is a worthwhile investment, schedule a pool and spa inspection with Burgess Inspections before you buy. We will make sure you don't have to foot the bill for costly pool repairs after moving into your new home. To add a pool inspection to your pre-purchase home inspection, contact us today at (844) 804-9219.

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