A 12 x 30 is pretty much a starter pool. If you like it, and learn to use it, you (and your family) will probably enjoy a bigger one next year. The very small pools are actually harder to do well than the ones with 5,000 gallons or more. But, if you make a mistake with a 1 - 2K gallon pool it's a lot easier (and cheaper) to dump and start over.