Should I buy a home with a swimming pool?

A swimming pool is a lifestyle choice that affects your home's value, maintenance costs, and insurance. In-ground pools typically add value to a home, but the return on investment varies by neighborhood. In some areas, a pool is a desirable feature that helps sell the home. In others, it may limit your buyer pool because many buyers see a pool as a liability. The annual cost of maintaining a pool includes chemicals, water, electricity for the pump and heater, cleaning supplies, and repairs. You may also need to pay for winterization and opening services. Homeowners insurance premiums increase with a pool due to the liability risk. Safety requirements in New Jersey include fencing with self-latching gates, pool covers, and sometimes alarm systems. In South Jersey, the swimming season is roughly June through September, giving you about four months of use. Consider how often you will actually use the pool. If you will use it daily, it may be worth the cost. If you will use it a few times a year, it may not be.