Purchasing a home with a pool can elevate your lifestyle, offering a private oasis for relaxation and entertainment. However, pools come with significant responsibilities and costs that buyers must carefully evaluate. According to a Realtor.com® analysis of April 2025 housing data, about 25% of listed homes this past spring featured a pool—a record high. To help you make an informed decision, here’s a comprehensive guide on what to consider when buying a home with a pool, including expert insights from Jordan Schaeffer, president of Renovations and Aftermarket at Anthony & Sylvan Pools.
Key Considerations During a Pool Walkthrough
When touring a home with a pool, a thorough inspection is critical to avoid costly surprises. Here are the key areas to focus on:
Visual Inspection for Potential Issues
Pay close attention to the pool’s physical condition during your walkthrough. Look for:
- Loose tiles or missing grout: These can indicate wear or improper maintenance.
- Green or discolored water: This may signal algae growth or filtration issues.
- Low water levels: A potential sign of leaks, which could be costly to repair.
- Cracks in steps, walls, or the floor: Schaeffer explains that “hydration” or spider cracks are often superficial and can be fixed with affordable solutions like $10 epoxy. However, deeper “separation cracks” wide enough to fit a penny could indicate serious structural issues or underground leaks, potentially costing thousands to repair.
Equipment Functionality Check
Ensure the pool’s equipment is in good working order. Schaeffer advises, “Ask the homeowner to turn the pool on to make sure the equipment sounds right and is running.” Listen for high-pitched noises or signs of struggling equipment, which could indicate the need for costly repairs or replacements.
Coping Joint Inspection
Examine the joint between the pool coping and the surrounding deck. Schaeffer warns, “If that joint never gets filled in with what we call mastic compound… that would be a red flag.” Without proper sealing, water can seep behind the coping, causing structural damage, especially in regions with freeze-thaw cycles.
Request Photos for Covered Pools
If you’re viewing the home during the off-season or the pool is covered, Schaeffer recommends asking for recent photos. “Ask to see last summer’s pictures of the pool… [and have the seller] affirm that the equipment’s been running well and there are no issues.” This provides insight into the pool’s condition when it’s not visible.
The Value of a Professional Pool Inspection
A standard home inspection typically does not cover pools, but some inspectors offer pool assessments as an add-on. For a thorough evaluation, consider hiring a specialized pool inspector, which costs between $125 and $250 on average. A qualified inspector can assess the pool’s shell, coping, and deck for cracks, leaks, or other issues. To find a reputable inspector, check professional associations like the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance.
Budgeting for Pool Maintenance Costs
Owning a pool requires ongoing maintenance, with annual costs ranging from $1,000 to $4,000, according to many experts. Many homeowners combine professional services with DIY tasks to manage expenses. Schaeffer offers these maintenance tips:
- Leave electrical repairs to professionals: “Anytime you’re mixing water and electricity… let the professional do that,” Schaeffer cautions, emphasizing safety.
- Avoid draining the pool yourself: Improper drainage can cause the pool to lift out of the ground due to hydrostatic pressure, leading to significant damage.
- Commit to year-round care: “It’s an open body of water outside… and you have to stay on top of the maintenance,” Schaeffer says. Proactive upkeep reduces chemical costs and prevents expensive repairs, while neglect can lead to costly remediation.
Does a Pool Add Resale Value?
A pool can significantly boost a home’s resale value. A 2025 Realtor.com® study found that homes with pools sold for a 54% premium—$599,000 compared to $389,000 for homes without. While the “pandemic premium” for pools, which peaked in January 2022, has normalized, pools remain a desirable feature. “The presence of a pool continues to drive a premium and be a popular item to include in listings as a home or community feature,” says Hannah Jones, senior economic research analyst at realtor.com®.
Popular Pool Upgrades to Enhance Value and Enjoyment
Upgrading an older pool can increase both its resale value and your personal enjoyment. Schaeffer highlights five popular upgrades:
- Automation: Modern pools allow you to control maintenance tasks like cleaning, filtration, and chlorine levels via a smartphone app, replacing outdated manual systems.
- Energy-efficient pumps: Switching to a variable-speed pump can reduce energy costs and enhance resale value by allowing owners to adjust motor speeds for efficiency.
- Water features: Add-ons like waterfalls, bubblers, or jump rocks create a luxurious and inviting pool experience.
- Sun shelf additions: Also known as tanning ledges, these shallow pool areas are trendy upgrades for relaxation and aesthetics.
- Darker pool finishes: Modern finishes like “raven” or “smoke” give pools a sleek, contemporary look, with water appearing almost black—a growing trend in pool design.
Summary
A pool can be a valuable and enjoyable feature, but it requires careful consideration before purchasing. By conducting a thorough walkthrough, investing in a professional inspection, and budgeting for ongoing maintenance, you can avoid unexpected costs and ensure your pool remains a source of enjoyment. Additionally, strategic upgrades can enhance both your lifestyle and the home’s resale value. With the right preparation, a home with a pool can be a rewarding investment for years to come.
Are you thinking about finding your dream home with a pool in the South Florida area? We can help! Contact Natasha at Live South Florida Realty, Inc. today! Also, be sure to download the free Florida Home Search App for your smartphone or tablet.
