Homes with Pools on the Big Island of Hawaii
Buying a home with a pool on the Big Island can offer a luxurious and tropical lifestyle, allowing you to enjoy the stunning natural beauty and year-round pleasant climate that the island has to offer. While a pool can be a desirable feature for many homebuyers, before you decide to buy a home with a pool it is essential to consider the pros and cons. From the initial expenses of installation to the ongoing costs of maintenance and upkeep, there is a long list of advantages and disadvantages of buying a home with a pool on the Big Island, so keep reading for some insights into the expenses and maintenance required for pool ownership.
ADVANTAGES OF OWNING A HOME WITH A POOL IN HAWAII
Year Round Access
With the warm and temperate climate of the Big Island, a pool offers year-round enjoyment and serves as a refreshing retreat for residents during hot and humid days. Even if you have experience owning a home with a pool, you may not have experienced how wonderful it is to be able to enjoy this feature all year round. In Hawaii, you can even take a dip in the pool on Christmas!
Enhanced Property Value
Homes with well-maintained pools can command higher property values and appeal to buyers seeking a luxurious and resort-like living experience on the island. If you are careful to maintain your pool properly, your future resale value will thank you.
Entertaining
A pool provides an excellent space for entertaining guests, hosting gatherings, and engaging in recreational activities, making it an appealing feature for homeowners who enjoy hosting social events and gatherings.
Aesthetics
Pools can enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of the property, creating a visually stunning and serene outdoor space that complements the island's lush landscapes and natural beauty.
Health and Wellness
Swimming is a low-impact exercise that offers numerous health and wellness benefits, providing homeowners with a convenient and enjoyable way to stay active and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
POTENTIAL DISADVANTAGES OF OWNING A HOME WITH A POOL IN HAWAII
Expenses
Ongoing maintenance costs can include weekly cleaning, water treatment, equipment servicing, and repairs, which can amount to several hundred dollars per month, depending on the size and complexity of the pool.
Operating a pool can result in increased energy expenses, particularly for heating and maintaining the water temperature, which can contribute to higher utility bills, especially during cooler months or in areas with cooler microclimates.
Homeowners with pools may experience higher insurance premiums to cover potential liabilities and ensure adequate protection against accidents or injuries that may occur on the property, adding to the overall cost of ownership.
Ongoing Maintenance
Even if you purchase a home with a pool that is complete and in good condition, there will be ongoing maintenance required. Regular pool maintenance, including cleaning, chemical treatments, and equipment repairs, is an ongoing expense that you should consider as you are budgeting for the total cost of owning the property. You may also decide to hire a pool maintenance service, so consider getting some quotes from local businesses.
Safety and Liability
Homeowners with pools must adhere to strict safety regulations and invest in safety features such as fencing, pool covers, and alarms to minimize the risk of accidents and potential liabilities associated with pool ownership.
While they are a wonderful feature to enjoy, there is an inherent risk, especially to children and disabled people. Make sure you are equipped to minimize the risk.
Resale Challenges
While pools can enhance the value of a property, they may not appeal to all potential buyers, and some individuals may be deterred by the maintenance responsibilities and associated costs, potentially impacting the property's resale value and marketability. Realistically, the pool could be a benefit or a drawback for resale depending on a variety of factors, and Hawaii real estate has historically maintained value extremely well, so don't let this potential concern bother you too much.
When you are ready to begin the search for homes for sale on the Big Island, with a pool or without, we are here to help. Contact us any time to learn more about how we can partner with you to find your new home sweet home on the island.
