Buying a Home with a Pool -- What You need to Know

 

ISLAMORADA, Fla. - Oct. 21, 2016 - PRLog -- Per Jan Keller, Top Producing Real Estate Agent for Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real estate and owner of Kellerporterteam.com-Everything about Real Estate in Islamorada and the Upper Keys,"Everyone loves the thought of having their own home, complete with a swimming pool.

Images of family splashing around and guests dipping their feet in or wading about with drinks in-hand are definitely enjoyable. However, to enjoy a pool, it must be actively maintained and even if you go the do it yourself route, this will cost money every month.

Here's some more of what you need to know about buying a home with a pool:

The impact on the house's value. A National Association of Realtors study found that a swimming pools adds about 8 percent to a property's value. But that was just in one market. In others, it can be higher -- 10 percent or more. Of course, in other markets a pool provides little to no value increase. It just depends on the geographic location and the neighborhood. For instance, in Florida, pools are commonplace and do add value. But in the northeast or midwest, this can be very different.

Cost of upkeep and long-term expenses. The cost of upkeep is more than just routine maintenance. Sure, you'll have to keep the pH level balanced and skim foreign objects out but there's also the consideration of more substantial expenses. For example, when the pump fails or worse yet, when hydrostatic pressure compromises the walls. Resurfacing is also a necessity and a costly one.

Its value as a selling feature. A swimming pool adds more than just to a property's real market value, it also adds to its marketing value. A pool is an amenity that often serves as a big time selling feature. This is especially true for new couples and couples with children able to swim. However, a pool can be a negative for older couples and for those with very young children.

Actual use. When you see a house with a pool, you'll dream about how much you'll use it. But reality will intrude. Be realistic about how often you'll use it.

Current condition. Do yourself a favor and hire a home inspector that's very experienced in assessing pools.

For more information about Homes for sale in the Upper Florida Keys, please contact Jan athttp://www.islamoradajan.com

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