When you're ready to take a splash and buy a home with a pool, there are several factors to consider.
Utilities - Ask to see a year's worth of utility bills. Find out what months the previous owners have kept the pool open as well as the average temperature they've kept the pool heater set. Your usage may differ and you should take that into account.
Maintenance and repairs - Even if you plan to maintain the pool yourself, factor in the cost of chemicals. If you plan on hiring a pool service, be sure you understand the cost of not only weekly service, but opening and closing the pool each year.
Maintaining the pool - If you plan on maintaining the pool yourself, make sure you understand how much time this will take. If you hire a service, you generally wouldn't need to be home.
Landscaping - Does the current landscaping have a bearing on keeping the pool clean? Overhanging trees may drop leaves or grass may blow in during mowing.
Pool cover - What type of cover does the pool have? There are pros and cons for each type. There are several types including solar, vinyl, semi-automatic, and automatic.
Type of pool - There are different types of pool construction, such as vinyl, fiberglass, and inground gunite pools. Understanding the type of pool construction is important since it affects the maintenance and longevity. An inground gunite pool is considered top of the line.
Children - Do they know how to swim? Are there safety features in place or have you factored in the cost of adding them?
Pets - Do you have outdoor cats or dogs? Again, consider their needs and consider if you need a fence or net for them.
Fence or Safety net - is there a fence around the pool? Or a safety net? If not, do you need one? Make sure you factor in the cost.
It is imperative to have a pool inspection done by a licensed, qualified individual. For more information about the importance of a pool inspection, Cyndee Haydon, a Clearwater, Florida Real Estate agent, has written an informative post with detailed photos. Read Tampa Bay Pool Homes for Sale for valuable information about getting a pool inspection.
When purchasing or selling a home with a pool, make sure you have an agent that understands all the factors involved. If you are looking to purchase a home in Albuquerque with a pool, contact me today!
For all your Albuquerque Real Estate needs, contact me today!
Ashley Drake Gephart
Keller Williams Realty
Cell: 505.261.0389
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