With a gorgeous and (hopefully) fun Memorial Day just behind us, as well as another school year coming to a close, many Florida families are looking forward to spending the summer splashing around. Indeed, cooling off with a dip in the Indian River, Atlantic Ocean, area lakes, and of course, backyard swimming pools, is one of the best aspects about living on the Space Coast!
No wonder then that a brand-new sparkling swimming pool often is a priority of LifeStyle’s new home buyers. Before you dive in, however, consider these three items regarding new pool ownership and construction.
- Family and lifestyle. Today’s pools can be built to suit virtually any family type and lifestyle, so it’s important to first consider how you will interact with your pool, then build your wish list from there. For example, will the pool be used for exercise? If so, a classic rectangular pool is ideal for laps or a game of volleyball. Or, will the pool primarily be used for kids’ play? If that’s the case, you may want to select a kidney-shaped pool with winding slide or leaping fountains for optimal fun. If you envision yourself hosting dinners and cocktail hours around your pool area, consider focusing on appealing aesthetics, such as a vanishing edge, waterfalls and lush foliage, as well as upgraded tile work and decking.
- Eco-friendliness and energy savings. Anyone familiar with LifeStyle Homes knows we’re all about saving our customers on their energy bills. And an inefficient pool can cause your monthly energy expenses to grow exponentially. Luckily, there are many products on the market today to operate your pool as efficiently as possible. Be sure you speak to your pool builder about energy-efficient pool pumps, LED underwater lighting, automation systems that monitor the pool’s temperature and operation, solar pools covers, and other items that can allow you to “go green” when building your new blue-water pool.
- Reputation of pool builder. A pool is not only a source of entertainment, it also can add to the value of your home. Beyond ensuring your pool contractor is licensed and insured, it’s important to thoroughly check your contractor’s reputation, references, stability, and service after the sale. Sites like Angie’s List can also offer real and honest feedback from other homeowners. And just like any big purchase, don’t rely on price alone. Have a realistic budget, and understand what quality pool construction costs. Also, keep in mind that if you’re building your new home with LifeStyle, pool financing is available when using one of LifeStyle’s approved pool contractors.
