Opinions Wanted Before We Buy!

[Poconos]

Just a rough cut says about 20,000+ gallons so the pump Ted recommends, 1 HP 2 speed, would be just fine. Even with that I'd go with a 300# filter instead of the 200. You can't go too big on a filter but you can go too small. I personally would stay away from main drains but that's just my quirk because of the accessability to fix it if something goes wrong. However, manually vacuuming an AG pool is generally harder than an inground because of the reach and not being able to stand on a deck all around, unless you're planning on on a deck. Without a deck a main drain could really help.
Just my nickels worth. Hope the build goes well and you enjoy your new pool.
Al

[lovemydanes]

Al, thank you so much for your advice! I will ask about a larger filter, for sure. I have some of the same concerns you mentioned about main drains, and I'm still torn about whether to get them. This may be a dumb question, but here goes: Since we won't be able to afford a deck right away, is it possible to get into the pool *with* the vacuum attachment to get the middle of the pool clean? Or does that stir the water too much? I'm trying to understand whether I can reasonably care for a pool that size without a main drain, and if so, what tools I should be specifically requesting. Eventually, we will have a deck - but it won't be for a couple of years (barring a lottery win)!

[Watermom]

You can get into a pool while vacuuming. I do it all the time. Just walk around slowly so as not to disturb the dirt.

[Poconos]

As Watermom said you can easily vacuum while in it. However, at the ends of the season, when trees are dumping stuff, you may turn a nice shade of blue if the water is cold. So.....I didn't mention it before but I will now. If I ever build a new pool, or do major replumbing, I think I would make some contraption that drops in the deep end on a hose that would act as a main drain. Idea would be to leave it in but pull it out when swimming. Valving would be like a normal main drain. That is be able to switch betwern skimmer and MD or any combination of the two. With a little ingenuity, PVC, and a drill press, you could drill a bunch of small holes (1/4" or less) on one side of a PVC pipe, manifold a few of these together to distribute the suction over a couple square feet, hook a hose to it and drop it on the bottom with the holes down. Wouldn't be as pretty as a built in drain but it should work the same way. If it's left in when swimming then the suction concerns for long hair would have to be addressed. No big deal, just distribute the suction over a large enough area.
I've rambled enough for one night.
Al