What to Look for When Buying a Las Vegas House with a Pool

Purchasing a home—any home—is one of the most monumental decisions you'll ever make. When considering a home with a pool in Las Vegas, it adds another layer of careful consideration to the process. The following article outlines some of the most essential things to know before buying a house with a pool in the vibrant city of Las Vegas.

For many people, the dream of owning a house with a swimming pool is a compelling one. Pools offer a perfect way to unwind, beat the scorching desert heat, and even maintain an active lifestyle. However, the allure of a pool goes beyond recreation—it can also significantly increase the value of your property. Real estate experts suggest that homes with pools tend to sell for 5% to 8% more than comparable homes without this luxurious amenity. So, if you're looking to enhance your home's value while enjoying the numerous benefits of pool ownership, buying a house with a pool may be a savvy choice.

How to Decide if a Pool is Right for You

The decision to have a pool should not be taken lightly. Here are some key factors to consider when evaluating whether a pool is the right fit for your lifestyle and needs:

Frequency of Use: Start by assessing how often you and your family will utilize the pool. In Las Vegas, where summers can be scorching, a pool may be a fantastic addition if you enjoy swimming and entertaining guests. However, if you reside in a more temperate climate and foresee limited pool usage for only a few months each year, it might be prudent to reconsider.

Maintenance Commitment: Pools demand consistent maintenance to remain clean, safe, and inviting. Reflect on whether you're prepared to invest the time, money, and effort required for upkeep. Regular cleaning, chemical balancing, and equipment maintenance are essential tasks that can't be overlooked. If you're not inclined to commit to pool maintenance, you might want to think twice about buying a home with a pool.

Financial Considerations: Factor in the costs associated with pool ownership. Constructing a pool can be a substantial upfront expense, and ongoing maintenance, repairs, and energy bills for pool systems can add up over time. It's worth exploring whether purchasing a home with an existing pool might be a more cost-effective option.

Types of Pools

Every swimming pool is unique, not only in terms of shape and size but also in its type. When envisioning your dream home, consider the following pool options:

• Inground Pool: This is the classic pool style, a permanent fixture dug into the ground. While inground pools offer timeless appeal, they can be expensive both to install and maintain. It's essential to determine your budget and commitment to pool upkeep.
• Indoor Pool: Indoor pools are enclosed, providing protection from outdoor elements. This setup ensures year-round pool usability while reducing maintenance requirements and enhancing safety.
• Above Ground Pool: For a more cost-effective alternative to inground pools, consider above ground pools. They require less time to install and are budget-friendly. However, it's important to note that they typically don't add significant value to a home.
• Filled-in Pool: In some cases, homeowners opt to fill in their pool when they no longer desire it. If you're purchasing a property with a filled-in pool, inquire about the process and ensure it was carried out by a qualified professional to avoid potential long-term issues.

Each pool type has its own set of advantages and considerations, so it's important to select the one that aligns with your preferences, budget, and long-term plans.

Understanding the Maintenance Demands of a Swimming Pool

While a well-maintained pool can be a valuable asset, it's crucial to recognize the ongoing costs and labor involved in keeping any pool in top condition. Proper pool maintenance entails a regimen of weekly cleanings, regular chemical treatments, timely filter replacements, as-needed resurfacing, and a contingency fund for potential repair expenses. It's also worth noting that heated pools can significantly elevate your monthly utility bills. Neglected pools can devolve into breeding grounds for mosquitoes or unsightly havens for algae, which can detrimentally impact your home's resale value.

The list of potential issues includes malfunctioning pumps, leaky seals, and burst water pipes, which, if left uninsured, can result in sudden and substantial expenses amounting to thousands of dollars. According to Homeadvisor.com, the average monthly maintenance cost for homeowners with pools falls between $80 and $150. Therefore, it's imperative to take these maintenance costs into account before finalizing your decision to purchase a new home with a pool.

Understanding Insurance Expenses Associated with Pool Ownership

Generally, your homeowner's insurance policy will extend coverage to include your swimming pool as part of the "other structures" clause. It's important to note that homeowners can potentially be held accountable for injuries occurring in and around their pool, regardless of whether the incidents took place with or without permission. This is why insurance companies categorize a pool as an "attractive nuisance," prompting most homeowner's insurance policies to incorporate a degree of liability coverage specifically tailored to pools.

The amount of liability coverage required for a pool can vary depending on factors such as your location and the type of pool you possess. It's essential to be well-informed about any stipulations set forth by your insurance provider to ensure your eligibility for liability claims. These requirements may include the installation of a secure pool cover, the maintenance of a fenced-in pool area, or the proper winterization procedures for your pool. Failure to adhere to these requirements could potentially leave you vulnerable to having your insurance claim denied due to perceived homeowner neglect.

Read more: Pool Owner FAQ

Property Taxes and the Impact of Pool Additions

In many areas, when you enhance the value of your home through renovations or additions, local assessors reevaluate your property's worth and subsequently apply higher tax rates. The same principle holds true for pool installations. If an assessor determines that a swimming pool contributes to the increased value of a property, you can expect to incur higher property taxes when purchasing a home that includes a pool.

Questions to Ask Current or Previous Homeowners About Their Pool

Prior to making an offer, it's crucial to gather comprehensive information from the current homeowners about the swimming pool. Here's a list of questions to ensure you have the complete picture:

• Could you provide the precise age of the pool or its original installation date?
• Were the necessary permits obtained for the pool's installation?
• How long has the pool liner been in use?
• What material lines the interior of the pool?
• Has there been any history of leaks in the pool?
• Could you detail the number and locations of drains and return outlets?
• How old is all the pool equipment?
• What methods have been employed for maintaining water chemistry in the pool?
• Is there an existing warranty for the pool?
• Can you identify the pool's manufacturer and the entity responsible for its installation?

The Disadvantages of Having a Pool

While pools offer homeowners a space for relaxation and quality time with loved ones, it's crucial to acknowledge the potential downsides:

• Cost: Building a pool can be a significant financial undertaking. Beyond construction, there are ongoing expenses related to pool maintenance, repairs, and increased energy bills for running cleaning systems. Buying a home with an existing pool can alleviate some of these costs.
• Safety Concerns: Pools pose a safety risk, especially to small children who may accidentally fall into the water. Homeowners with pools should always be vigilant and take precautions to secure the pool area to prevent accidents.

Average Pool Maintenance Costs

Maintaining a pool involves various tasks and expenses. Here's a breakdown of the typical costs associated with pool maintenance:

Cleaning: This includes routine water testing and chemical treatments but does not cover significant repairs to pool linings or filtration systems.

• DIY: $100 - $150 per month
• Professional service: $150 - $200 per month

Opening & Closing: If you reside in a cold climate, you may need to close your pool for the winter and then reopen it for the season. Professional assistance may be necessary for this.

• Annual cost: $300 - $600

Utility Bills: Running your pool's pump and filtration systems requires electricity, and you'll also incur costs for regularly topping off the pool due to evaporation.

• Annual cost: $300 - $400

These costs provide a general overview of the financial considerations involved in maintaining a pool. Keep in mind that expenses can vary based on factors such as location, pool size, and specific maintenance needs.

In conclusion, buying a Las Vegas house with a pool can be a rewarding investment, both in terms of enjoyment and property value. However, it's essential to carefully weigh the pros and cons, considering factors like usage, maintenance commitment, and associated costs. With the right decision, you can dive into a Las Vegas lifestyle that combines relaxation, recreation, and lasting value.