We're set to close on a house next month, and though I've swum in many a pool, I've never had my own! So (wearing my newbie hat) I'm terrified to open it up! I only *just* learned that it won't be empty when we take the cover off. At least: From what I've read thus far, I HOPE it's not empty! It's a vinyl pool, and the liner was replaced last summer.

Firstly: How gross can I expect it to be when I open it up, assuming it has been reasonably well taken care of?

What should I keep an eye out for that could be indicative of a problem?

We're thinking of having a pro come out for the first spring opening, just to make sure it gets done right the/our first time. Any idea what sort of cash we can expect to shell out for that?

SO MANY QUESTIONS! I'll stop here, as I'm sure I can track down existing info for a lot of these points For reference, we're in the midwest, in the suburbs of Kansas City.