The Poolside Debate: To Dive or Not to Dive into Backyard Pool Ownership

As the winter chill thaws and the promise of warm Canadian summers flicker on the horizon, many of us start eyeing our backyards with renewed interest. This is where we hold BBQ parties, soak up the sun, and spend quality time with family and friends. And for some, it’s the ideal location for an in-ground or above-ground pool.

But is a pool the right choice for your outdoor space? There are many factors to consider, including installation costs, maintenance, health benefits, and even the potential impact on your home’s value.

Riding the Wave: The Benefits of Having a Pool

Health and Wellness

An in-ground pool in your backyard offers several health benefits. The sunlight you get while lounging by the pool can increase your body’s vitamin D production, a vital nutrient for bone health. Similarly, sunlight helps boost serotonin levels, a neurotransmitter involved in sleep regulation, mood, and numerous other body functions.

Swimming is also a great low-impact exercise that can help with injury rehabilitation and work multiple muscle groups without strain. It provides a fantastic cardio workout that can improve your sleep due to increased physical activity.

Family and Social Life

A pool can also serve as a social hub for family and friends. It can foster better connections and create opportunities for more family bonding time, as pool parties become a regular part of your summer. As a parent, a backyard pool can help your children develop strong swimming skills and a healthy understanding of water safety.

Wading Cautiously: The Benefits of Not Having a Pool

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1. Cost Considerations

Installing a pool can be a hefty investment. The average cost to install an in-ground pool ranges from $70,000 to over $100,000, and there’s also an annual maintenance cost that can set you back anywhere between $2,000 and up.

Above-ground pools are more affordable, with prices ranging from $1,950 to $8,000 on average. But even then, the professional installation costs, which can range from $1,500 to $4,000, must be factored in.

2. Impact on Home Resale Value

When it comes to the potential impact of a pool on your home’s resale value, the waters get a bit murky. Above-ground pools, particularly DIY installed ones, may not add any value and could even be seen as a downside by potential buyers.

In-ground pools, on the other hand, can add up to 7% to your home’s value, but this is conditional. Factors such as your location (affluent communities where pools are common), climate (areas where the pool can be used year-round), and yard size (enough space left for other uses) play a significant role. Additionally, the pool must be well-maintained, and it must align with the preferences of your potential buyer or renter.

To Sum Up: Should You Make a Splash?

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Given the costs and variables involved, a pool should generally be viewed more as an investment in your lifestyle rather than a home value booster. If the health benefits and potential for increased family time outweigh the costs in your situation, taking the plunge might be worth it.

Before you dive in, consider spending time around pools—maybe at a friend’s or community pool—to see if it fits your lifestyle. After all, it’s about making sure you’re ready to dive headfirst into pool ownership and not just wading in the shallow end. Whatever you decide, here’s to a summer full of fun, sun, and good times—pool or no pool!

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When it comes to home evaluation, feel free to always reach out to a trusted realtor for expert advice.