Things to Consider When Preparing to Build a Pool

The dog days of summer are here, and you find yourself wishing you could head outside for a nice, cool dip in your very own pool. This doesn’t have to be a dream. We’re here to help you understand what to expect when preparing to build a pool on your property.

Space & Size

First place to start: do you have the appropriate space for a pool? Not only do you need to consider the size of your yard, but also the topography: do you have a steep hill, or is it mostly flat? Rocky ground or your typical grass and soil? How accessible is your yard for construction equipment? All of these factors will affect if you can even build a pool, or, if you can, the cost of building it and the length of time it’ll take.

It's also a good idea to determine what size pool you want. Putting in a smaller pool has different cost and construction implications than a larger one, for example. This is entirely a personal choice, based on your needs and wants and the size of your available space. The one major thing to consider here is zoning. There may be zoning requirements and/or restrictions on pool size or location on your property. A good construction company or pool installation company should be able to help you navigate those considerations.

Cost & Budget

The cost of adding a pool to your backyard can range from $1,000 for a basic above-ground pool with no filtration system to $100,000+ for a large, luxurious pool that’s totally customized.

Above-ground pools are not built; rather, they are installed. That automatically makes them less expensive because they typically require far less time and manpower to set up. The average cost for an above-ground pool with a filtration system will run between $3,000 and $8,000. Account for additional costs like a deck, landscaping, and accessories, as well.

In-ground pools come with design and construction costs so they’re going to be the more expensive option right off the bat. Costs for basic in-ground pools begin around $20,000. Once you start to build a more elaborate pool or add any customizations, the price can come in around $50,000.

Like with any home project, the overall cost will be determined by your budget, the size and scope of the project, and any upgrades or customizations.

Paying for your pool can happen in a variety of ways:

1. You can utilize cash from your savings.
2. Use your home’s equity with a cash-out refinance or home equity loan or line of credit.
3. Take out an unsecured personal loan.

Miscellaneous Considerations

• Insurance
  • Adding a pool to your property will result in needing to adjust the parameters of your homeowner’s insurance. Reach out to your insurance company to find out what the estimated costs are so you know what to expect once you start splashing away!
• Safety
  • Most municipalities have zoning requirements and policies around pools and pool safety. One of the more common ones is fencing. You’ll likely need to install a four-foot or six-foot fence around your pool. There’s a plethora of fencing options from basic to elaborate, and the pricing runs the gamut, too. Regardless, you’ll need to factor that into your costs, as well.
• Maintenance Costs
  • Once your pool is built and you’re enjoying it, you will need to maintain it! This involves treating the water, cleaning it regularly, ensuring all the mechanics and filters are working properly, and opening and closing it each season. While these costs aren’t required up front, they are expenses that you’ll need to commit to paying for, in perpetuity.
• Hardscaping & Landscaping
  • Once your pool is installed, you’ll need to ensure the space immediately surrounding it is safe and accessible. This will likely involve the installation of decking, patios, sidewalks, or stairs. Beyond that, you want to enjoy the view while you’re taking a dip, so you’ll probably want to work with a landscaper to curate an array of plants and flowers around the pool. Both of these needs will add to the total cost of your project.

Make Your Pool Dreams Come True

When you’re ready to build the pool of your dreams, we’ll be here to help you fund your purchase. We offer refinancing, home equity loans and lines of credit, and personal loans that can set you up to pay for your summer oasis.