Worth a pool in sd? (San Diego, Orange: houses, to buy, pros and cons)

[djcampers]

I like the idea of a pool, esp. with my two swimming kids but what are the pros and cons of sd pool living?

Are there any low cost heating options? Solar?

I don't care about resale value I just want to go swimming every day and I know the kids do too.

Looking to buy at the moment. If we do go for a pool is it better to make a new one in a pool sized lot or buy and fix out an existing?

Thank you

[LuvSouthOC]

Remember, the coastal areas are cold. I still have a house in San Diego near the coast that I added a pool to. I added solar and it was not enough. It is simply too cold in coastal areas to swim except for the summer. I have the same problem here in Orange County even though I am not RIGHT by the water. If you want to get the most use out of your pool, consider a place that is more inland like Poway, etc.

On resale, they say you get 50 cents on the dollar for money spent on pools. Other considerations include the fact that we are in a drought. I have a pool here too, but am a serious water miser and have xeriscaped the yard. Desalination, when it happens, will result in higher water costs. It is just a fact. I foresee a time when pools are heavily taxed or even banned.

Another consideration is heating expenses. Again, they will be high on the coast.

The last consideration is cleaning. Factor in the cost or inconvenience of servicing your pool.

Next, expect a reassessment on your house. It stung when they did that to me ten years ago.

Finally, there is electricity for the pump, which will only go up and up in Southern California for a variety of reasons. Expect it.

That said, pools are still popular where I live and houses with them are snapped up. It is part of the Southern California lifestyle, at least to me. I love 'em.