Amidst the sweltering temps and oppressive humidity, there are presently few things that sound more appealing than jumping into a refreshing pool to cool off. And if you’re hunting for a house this summer, it’s only fitting that you’d want to widen your search to include properties with such a reviving luxury. Wondering if buying a home with a pool is the right move for you?

Dive into our guide for everything you should know before making this important summertime decision today.

#1: Cost Considerations

Initial Cost: As you’ll discover quickly in your search, homes with pools are typically priced higher than comparable homes without them.

Maintenance Costs: For pool owners, regular maintenance isn’t just recommend — it’s essential. Swimming sanctuary upkeep includes everything from cleaning to balancing chemicals and servicing equipment. Of course, maintenance doesn’t come free; it can in fact cost several hundred to a few thousand dollars.

Insurance: Understandably, pools can increase homeowners’ insurance premiums due to the potential liability incurred. For that reason, ensuring that you have sufficient coverage is paramount.

# 2: Maintenance And Upkeep

Regular Maintenance: As you know by now, pools require consistent upkeep to retain their safety and cleanliness. Curious about the specifics? Pool maintenance typically involves skimming debris, vacuuming, checking and balancing chemical levels, and maintaining filtration systems.

Seasonal Care: In the DMV, pools will need to be winterized and then reopened for the summer season.

Repairs And Replacements: Be prepared for occasional yet necessary repairs and the eventual replacement of parts like pumps, heaters, liners, and covers.

#3: Safety Concerns

Fencing and Covers: Safety is everything, which is why measures such as fences, covers, and alarms are often required by local regulations to prevent accidents, especially to protect young children and pets.

Supervision: On that note, pools require vigilant supervision. Our advice? Ensure you’re comfortable with the responsibility of managing your pool’s safety, as it’s not one to be taken lightly.

Read more homebuying tips with these posts next:

• Red Flags to Look for When Buying a Home
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• Existing Home Vs. New Build: What’s Right For You?

#4: Local Regulations

Permits And Compliance: To ensure your pool complies with all local safety and building standards, we recommend reviewing local building codes and regulations regarding pool ownership.

Homeowners’ Association (HOA) Rules: If the home you’re looking to buy is part of an HOA, you should verify any rules or restrictions regarding pools.

#5: Lifestyle And Use

Usage Frequency: Before making your decision, consider this: How often will you realistically use the pool? If you’re all about swimming and entertaining, a pool can be a great asset. If not, it can become a burden.

Resale Value: While a pool can be an attractive feature to some buyers, it can be a deterrent to others. For this reason, you should weigh the potential impact a pool might home on your home’s resale value down the line.

#6: Inspection

Professional Inspection: Before jumping in with both feet, we suggest having the pool examined by a professional as part of the home inspection process. That way, you’ll be able to appropriately assess the condition of the pool, equipment, and surrounding areas for any potential issues.

#7 Energy And Environmental Impact

Energy Costs: Pools can add unwanted dollars onto your energy bills, particularly if they have heaters or lighting.

Water Usage: Pools require a significant amount of water for filling and topping off, which can impact your water bill, too.

#8: Amenities And Add-ons

Pool Features: Going all in on the pool experience? Consider additional features such as heating systems, lighting, automatic cleaners, and covers that can enhance your home’s al fresco appeal.

Do you have more questions about buying a house in DC with a pool? Reach us at 202.280.2060 or send us a note at jsmira@jennsmira.com today!