Hindsight

[DONNIE]

We're looking at spending around $25K to put in a 12x25 fiberglass IG pool complete with heater, SWG and cartridge filter. Then another couple grand for decking, fence and landscaping. I guess I'm having pre-buyers remorse. I know we will enjoy the new backyard but am having a hard time justifying $25K to $30K for a pool that size. No, we can't go bigger due to lot size and restrictions. We have the cash to do it so it won't affect us really. Any thoughts. Any regrets?

Donnie

[mbar]

I really don't think you will have any regrets. I love the pool, I love the sound of the water, and the way it looks, you can really have a little oasis in the backyard. I found that I used the yard much more than I ever did once I got the pool - I never just sat outside, but after getting the pool it became like another part of the house - we entertain more and just enjoy sitting outside reading. The best part is getting up and drinking a cup of coffee in the morning while the day is new - Now you see why I get so sad when I close the pool for the winter I don't think the size matters Best of luck

[webfeet]

I've had a lot of problems with my installation. IG vinyl was just installed. The fiberglass pool would have cost about 30% more. Although it seems to be a better choice, we couldn't justify the difference. So, if I had it to do again, I would choose another builder and go for the IG vinyl. On the otherhand, its been very stressful around here due to the problems.
Ultimately, we all have to make our own choices, and then we have to live with the choices we make. An inground pool is a major decision. We too, are paying cash. If we had to borrow money, we would not have considered building a pool. Even yet, we struggled with spending so much money.
We consider the pool a luxury, since we don't need it for physical therapy. However, we believe we will get more satisfaction from the pool (if and when we get all the problems fixed) than a luxury car or vacation. (The car could have problems, too.) We have 4 grandkids and they love the pool. Moreover, we would rather be with the grandkids than travel or vacation. (we visited Europe a few years ago.)
Just think about what you want- don't make a hasty choice, and continue to talk to pool owners. Good luck with whatever choice you make.