As we hit peak summertime weather, the allure of owning a home with a pool becomes more and more tempting! The idea of lounging by the water, hosting pool parties, and enjoying a private oasis is appealing. However, the reality is we live in a country where you can really only use a pool a couple of months a year and it can be a lot of work to maintain.
Let’s dive into the pros and cons to help you decide if a home with a pool is the right choice for you!
Benefits of Owning a Pool
Relaxation and Entertainment: A pool provides a great space for relaxation, exercise, and social gatherings. It can be a focal point for family fun and entertaining guests.
Exercise and Health Benefits: Swimming is a low-impact exercise that benefits cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and flexibility.
Aesthetic Appeal: Pools can be integrated into the landscape design, adding to the overall beauty of your outdoor space.
Convenience and Privacy: Having a pool in your backyard means you can enjoy a swim anytime without having to go to a public pool!
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Cons of Owning a Pool
High Maintenance Costs: Pools require regular cleaning, chemical balancing, and general upkeep. This can be time-consuming and costly. Pools will also significantly increase your water and electricity usage.
Safety Concerns: Pools can be hazardous, especially for children and pets. Installing fences and covers as a safety measure, is essential.
Seasonal Limitations: In colder climates, an outdoor pool might only be usable for a few months each year, making the investment less worthwhile. Preparing the pool for winter can be another chore and expense to consider.
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Hot Tub: A Worthy Alternative?
If a pool seems like too much of a commitment, a Hot Tub might be worth considering!
- Year-Round Use: Unlike outdoor pools, hot tubs can be used in all seasons.
- Health Benefits: Hot tubs can relieve stress, soothe muscles, and improve sleep.
- Lower Maintenance: Hot tubs generally require less maintenance and have lower operating costs compared to pools.
- Space Requirements: Hot tubs still need a dedicated space in your yard or home.
- Regular Cleaning: They still require regular cleaning and chemical balancing, though less intensive than pools.
Sauna and Cold Plunges
The sauna and cold plunge trend has really taken off recently, and we’re seeing more homeowners incorporate these features into their backyard oasis. My husband, for instance, is obsessed with his sauna and cold plunge ritual at our local gym/spa so he looked into building a setup at our place, but we decided to save those dreams for our next home since we live in a condo and a balcony spa would not have gone over well with the condo board, lol.
Sauna Room
- Health Benefits: Saunas can improve cardiovascular health, aid in detoxification, and relieve muscle pain.
- Low Maintenance: Saunas require less upkeep compared to pools and hot tubs.
- Indoor Option: Saunas can be installed indoors, making them usable year-round.
Cold Plunge
- Health Benefits: Cold plunges can improve circulation, reduce muscle soreness, enhance mental clarity, and relieve stress.
- Cost and Maintenance: Installing and maintaining a cold plunge can be expensive and time-consuming, but it is significantly less costly and demanding than a pool or hot tub!
Buying a home with a pool or other amenities like a hot tub or sauna room can enhance your lifestyle . However, it does not always add value to your property. While some buyers might find a pool appealing, others might see it as an unnecessary feature or a maintenance burden, potentially narrowing the market for your home.
Whether it’s the joy of a pool, the relaxation of a hot tub, or the health benefits of a sauna or cold plunge, the right choice will depend on your personal preferences and lifestyle.
Happy house hunting!
Looking for answers to your real estate questions? Get in touch with us directly by calling 416.642.2660 or emailing us at admin@torontorealtygroup.com.
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