As temperatures climb and the approaching warmer months lure us in, owning a backyard pool becomes even more appealing to prospective homebuyers. This attraction is especially true for families with young children who can’t wait to spend their summer days splashing around in the pool.

Nevertheless, before diving headfirst into this captivating idea, it’s crucial to consider several essential factors before purchasing a property with a pool.

1. Location, location, location 

“Location, location, location” doesn’t just apply to buying property but also holds true when considering the positioning of a backyard pool. A carefully located pool will enhance your outdoor space and allow ample yard space. Additionally, assessing how future renovations or extensions might interact with the pool is crucial. 

2. Pool maintenance costs

Owning a pool comes with some financial responsibilities. To keep your aquatic haven in tip-top shape, be prepared to invest time and money. Routine cleaning services, essential for pool maintenance, can make quite a splash in your wallet, ranging from a modest $50 to a high-end $200 per hour, depending on the scope of service needed.

Alternatively, you could take on the task of pool maintenance yourself. However, be ready for a significant commitment of your precious time and energy, and don’t forget the potential pitfalls of not getting it just right.

Additionally, a pool pump is a vital component of running a swimming pool, but thankfully, it won’t cost an arm and a leg. According to Canstar, the average pool pump will cost between 13c and 40c per hour, based on an electricity usage rate of 24.9c/kWh. If you run your pool for six hours per day over the summer (90 days), it’ll add between $69.30 and $216.00 to your energy bills*.

3. Safety measures

Ensuring the safety of your family, especially children, around the pool is paramount. The pool in a property you’re considering buying should adhere to safety pool fence regulations in your state or territory. For starters, a properly functioning safety pool fence with self-closing gates will prevent unsupervised access to the pool. There will also be rules around fence heights, ‘non-climbable zones’ to prevent children from climbing over the fence. Different regulations may apply based on the age of the pool, making it advisable to consider obtaining an inspection from a certified pool safety inspector.

4. Above ground or inground? 

Even though an inground pool comes with more upfront costs than an above-ground pool, it can potentially boost your overall property value. Further, because inground pools have longer lifespans than above-ground pools, you and your family can enjoy your pool in your new property for much longer.

5. Dive into some of Australia’s best pools that are on the market right now

You’ve landed in the perfect spot if you're reading this blog. Begin your search today by clicking here and find your perfect home with the right swimming pool for you and your family. 

Like a property, the location, presentation, and maintenance of a pool will go a long way to determining how much of an asset it is when it comes time to sell.

For more tips on finding a property with a pool, please contact your local Raine & Horne agent today.

Pictured: 10 Hesperus Street, Pymble NSW