Is Owning a Pool Worth It? Exploring Buying a Home with a Pool, Building One, and a Better Option

The idea of owning a pool has long been tied to dreams of relaxation, fun, and family gatherings. Whether it’s the envisioning of a sunny barbecue by the poolside or the joy of having your private oasis, it’s easy to see the appeal. But is owning a pool truly worth the investment? Should you buy a home with a pool or go through the process of building one from scratch? Or does a third option—enjoying the resort-style community pools and shared amenities in a new home community like Pecan Square by Hillwood in Northlake, TX—make even more sense? Let’s weigh the possibilities.

Buying a House with a Pool – Instant Gratification, Potential Trade-offs

When considering the allure of a private pool, buying a house that already has one might seem like the easiest way to jump right into the lifestyle, but there are both advantages and potential trade-offs to keep in mind.

Pros of Buying a House with a Pool

Immediate Enjoyment

When you buy a house with a swimming pool already included, you can start enjoying it as soon as you settle in. No waiting, no construction, no mess.

Potentially Lower Upfront Costs

Depending on the local real estate market, it might be less expensive to buy a house with a pool already built rather than adding one later.

Established Landscaping

A pre-existing pool often comes with mature landscaping, enhancing the overall look of the yard.

Cons of Buying a House with a Pool

Lack of Customization

You’re inheriting someone else’s design. Whether it’s the shape, size, or material, it may not align with your vision.

Hidden Maintenance Issues

Older pools might hide costly problems, from structural cracks to outdated equipment, leading to unexpected expenses.

Compromises Elsewhere

Sometimes, selecting a home with a pool might mean settling for a less-than-ideal floor plan, neighborhood, or location.

Renovation and Upgrades

Updating a dated pool to suit your tastes or to ensure it meets safety standards can quickly inflate costs.

“As-Is” Condition

Unlike new pools, pre-existing ones are sold as-is, with no warranties, leaving buyers to address any surprises.

Building Your Dream Pool – Customization and Control, But at a Price

If buying a house with a pool doesn’t quite fit your vision, building your dream pool from scratch offers the ultimate in personalization and control, but it comes with its own set of considerations.

Pros of Building a Pool

Complete Customization

From the size to features like waterfalls, lighting, or heated options, you control every aspect of the design.

Modern Efficiency

Newer pools can incorporate energy-saving technology and efficient equipment, reducing operating costs.

Built to Current Standards

With new pool construction, you have warranties, compliance with modern safety codes, and peace of mind knowing it meets today’s standards.

Cons of Building a Pool

High Upfront Costs

The cost of constructing a pool can be prohibitive, often surpassing initial estimates due to added features or delays.

Disruption

Building a pool isn’t quick. Weeks or even months of construction can leave you with a messy yard, noise, and disruptions.

Permits and Red Tape

Securing permits and abiding by local regulations can be time-consuming and frustrating.

Landscaping Restoration

After construction, significant landscaping work may be required to restore or beautify your yard.

Unexpected Delays

Whether it’s weather or material shortages, delays in pool construction are common.

The Allure vs. The Reality of Owning a Pool

While owning a pool may seem like the ultimate convenience, its real-life demands often present challenges.

The Costs

From pool chemicals and equipment replacement to higher electricity and water bills, expenses quickly add up. And if something breaks, repairs can be costly.

Time Commitment

Regular cleaning, balancing chemicals, and protecting equipment during North Texas freezes require ongoing effort.

Safety Concerns

Pools demand diligence, from installing safety measures to addressing liability concerns, not to mention increased insurance premiums.

Underutilization

Despite your best intentions, how often will you use the pool? North Texas weather can limit swimming to warmer months unless you invest in costly heating systems.

Impact on Property Value

While pools may boost value in some situations, not all buyers want the expense and responsibility of a pool. For families with young children or those who prefer low-maintenance living, a pool can be a deterrent.

The Often-Overlooked Solution: Resort-Style Community Pools

If you dream of the pool lifestyle without the costs, maintenance, or time commitment, a community with resort-style pools like Pecan Square offers the best of both worlds.

Cost Savings

No expensive construction. No maintenance or repairs. No spike in utility bills.

Hassle-Free Enjoyment

With pools professionally maintained and cleaned, all you need to do is show up and enjoy.

Social Opportunities

Pecan Square’s resort-style pools are hubs for social interaction. Meet neighbors at community events, relax with friends, or spend time making family memories. This type of social scene is hard to replicate in a private backyard.

Variety and Features

From refreshing family pools to quiet, adults-only retreats, community pools often provide more variety than a single private pool. Plus, features like splash pads and cabanas elevate the experience.

Overall Safety

While individual supervision remains necessary, community pools benefit from established safety protocols, controlled access, and attentive neighbors who look out for one another.

Building a Private Pool: An Option, Not a Necessity

For those who love the idea of a private pool, it’s still possible to build one within a new home community like Pecan Square. However, the added costs and effort are significant considerations. Thankfully, when you live in a community offering exceptional shared amenities, this investment becomes less of a necessity.

Explore the Resort-Style Pools (and Other Amenities) at Pecan Square

At Pecan Square, our award-winning amenities and lifestyle program (also award-winning) provide endless opportunities for connection and recreation. Beyond our resort-style pools, residents have access to event spaces, playgrounds, clubs, and a full calendar of activities organized by our dedicated Lifestyle Manager.

Discover the thoughtfully designed new homes at Pecan Square and explore the distinct blend of small-town charm and resort-level luxury.

To learn more about Pecan Square by Hillwood, stop by The Greeting House for a tour! Our builders have available inventory, and many are offering incentives! Browse for your home online, then visit the builder’s models to learn more about special offers.