Nothing says summer like relaxing poolside with the kids splashing, the grill fired up, and the sun shining down. But if you’re thinking about buying a home with a pool in Wisconsin, there are a few things you’ll want to consider before diving in. Pools can be a fantastic perk, but they also come with maintenance, costs, and potential resale factors.
As someone who has bought, moved, and rebuilt a pool (yes, we’ve done it all!), I can say firsthand that owning a pool is a big decision—but it can also be so worth it. Let’s break down the pros, cons, and key things to know before making a pool part of your home search in Eau Claire, Chippewa Falls, or the surrounding areas.
The Perks of Owning a Pool 🏊♂️☀️
A private backyard pool can be a dream come true for many homeowners, offering:
Built-in Summer Fun – No need to haul the kids to the local pool when you can swim anytime!
Entertainment Value – Great for hosting barbecues, pool parties, and family gatherings.
Increased Home Value? Not Always. – While pools can boost resale appeal in warmer states like Arizona or Florida, that’s not usually the case in Wisconsin. In fact, some buyers may see a pool as a downside due to the short swim season and added maintenance. It’s best to view a pool as a lifestyle upgrade—not a guaranteed return on investment.
Personal Experience: A couple of years ago, we decided to stay in our home longer than expected. We loved our neighborhood, we had a great interest rate, and we just couldn’t find the acreage property we were searching for. So instead of moving, we made staying more enjoyable by investing in a Kayak Pool—a self-cleaning, versatile pool that
could be above-ground, recessed, or in-ground. It turned out to be a great choice for our family!
The Downsides to Consider 🏠💰
While pools are fun, they come with extra responsibilities.
Higher Maintenance Costs – Expect to spend money on chemicals, cleaning, and general upkeep. If you use a heater in the pool, that adds to your gas/electric bill.
Insurance & Liability – Homeowners insurance can be higher due to added risks.
Seasonal Use – In Wisconsin, you’ll only get a few warm months of pool time before it’s time to close it for winter.
Our Pool Reality Check: When we finally found our dream acreage property, we debated whether to bring the pool with us. Some buyers thought it was cool, but most didn’t want the responsibility. So, we disassembled the pool, moved in the fall, and rebuilt it (recessed) the following spring.
What to Look for When Buying a Home with a Pool 🔍💦
If a pool is on your must-have list, be sure to check:
Condition of the Pool Liner & Equipment – A pool inspection is a must to avoid surprise repair costs. A replacement liner alone can cost thousands of dollars.
Safety Features – Fencing, pool covers, and alarms are important—especially if you have young kids.
Heating Options – In Wisconsin, a heated pool extends the swimming season significantly.
Our Experience with Pool Heating: While our Kayak Pool requires minimal chemicals and maintenance, the biggest expense is the pool heater, which runs on
propane. I personally feel a heater is a necessity in Wisconsin, especially if you want to use your pool beyond just a couple of hot months.
Should You Build a Pool Instead of Buying One? 🏗️
If you find your dream home without a pool, should you build one?
Above-ground pools are more affordable, starting at around $3,000-$7,000.
In-ground pools can range from $40,000-$100,000+ and require proper permits.
Consider resale – Not every buyer will want a pool, so adding one should be for personal enjoyment rather than investment purposes.
Our Pool Journey (Round 2!): When we moved to our new home, we originally thought we’d only live there temporarily and build our dream home on the other side of the property. So, we planned to move the pool again and install it in-ground. But over time, we realized we love our home and decided to renovate instead of building new—so now the pool is staying put! Plus my husband said he refused to ever move the pool again as it was a nightmare project.
A home with a pool can be an amazing lifestyle upgrade, but it’s important to weigh the maintenance, costs, and seasonal limitations before taking the plunge. Whether you’re looking for a move-in-ready pool home or considering adding one to your property, making an informed decision will ensure you get the most enjoyment out of your investment.
Next Steps Thinking about buying a home with a pool? Let’s find the right one for you! Contact me today to start your home search in Eau Claire, Chippewa Falls, and beyond. And don’t forget to subscribe to my newsletter for more home-buying tips and market updates!