Are Inground Pools Worth the Investment?

When homeowners invest in renovations or luxury items, many prefer to get a significant return on investment. That frugal mindset makes a great deal of sense considering a house generally stands as the single largest purchase in a person's life. New bathrooms and expansive kitchens may reliably improve property values. But what about inground pools?

Everyday people have vastly different opinions about whether installing an inground pool delivers a secure return on investment (ROI). Real estate sector experts also disagree. Some reports indicate that an inground pool improves property values by approximately 5-8 percent. Others conclude that homeowners may only get 43 percent of their investment back. Rather than choose between one opinion or another, it may be worthwhile to consider the building process and quality of life benefits.

What To Expect During Pool Installation

It's important to see past the sparkling pool pictures and relaxed sunbathers. Hiring a contractor to install an inground pool is a big job. Your backyard will likely remain under construction for upwards of 14 weeks, without any unforeseen delays. The ongoing construction includes loud excavation equipment, workers arriving early in the morning and the surrounding area will be largely unusable. These are typically inground pool construction phases to anticipate.

• Design: Contractors work with homeowners to create a pool layout that fits the landscape and the family budget. This may require bringing in engineers and consultants, depending on the terrain.
• Permitting: Local building officials will need to approve the plans and issue permits. These may include excavation, plumbing, electrical and building, among others.
• Excavation Work: Homeowners can expect heavy equipment such as a backhoe, bulldozer and dump truck at work in your backyard. Such machinery tends to be loud and generally tears up lawns. Some rehabilitative landscaping work will occur after the poll's completion.
• Building Phase: Once a massive hole has been dug, structural steel, plumbing and forms are put in place. Material such as Gunite may be sprayed to create the pool walls. Plumbers and electricians then install water and filtration systems, among other items.

The final phases involve installing attractive tile work and relaxing decks to accompany the new pool.

What Is The True Value Of An Inground Pool?

It's not uncommon for budget-conscious homeowners to emphasize the quantifiable value of a poll installation. If you think in terms of a 7-8 percent resale value increase, other home improvements might seem more practical. However, monetary value of your home is only one important aspect. People who move forward with an inground pool project often gain the following lifestyle benefits.

• Lower Stress Levels
• Improved Health & Wellness
• Backyard Beautification
• A Pace to Host Family, Friends & Parties

The sometimes hidden truth about new bathrooms and expansive kitchens is that everyday people make these upgrades to enhance their quality of life as well as secure an ROI. The financial aspect usually takes a backseat to living well and feeling comfortable at home.

Hiring a contractor and living in a construction site tends to be worth the lifestyle benefits pool owners experience. But making an informed decision requires gathering estimates, understanding the ongoing costs associated with inground pools, ROI and the value of your leisure time.