🏊 The Pool Problem Nobody’s Talking About

The Pool Dilemma in Central Florida: Worth It or Just a Wet Headache?
Header: Pools Are Everywhere in Florida—But Are They Really Worth It?

In Central Florida, pools have become almost synonymous with “living the dream.” When you imagine owning a home in Orlando, Lake Mary, or Altamonte Springs, the picture usually includes palm trees, sunshine, and a sparkling blue pool in the backyard.

But is that pool an oasis—or a trap?

This week on the Florida Real Estate Insider Podcast, we dove deep into the truth about pools. Not just the sunshine-soaked fantasy—but the real numbers, the risks, and the tough questions most buyers and sellers don’t think to ask until it’s too late.

We’re not here to talk you out of your pool dreams—but we are here to make sure you know what you’re getting into.

Here’s what sparked the conversation: More and more of our clients—from Sanford to Downtown Orlando—are asking whether a pool adds real value or just adds to their stress (and monthly bills). Some are looking at resale. Others are debating whether to install one post-purchase. And some are just trying to figure out why their insurance premium suddenly skyrocketed.

And the answer? It’s complicated.

In some neighborhoods, especially in Lake Mary and Altamonte Springs, a well-designed, well-maintained pool can absolutely push your home into the “must-have” category. We’ve seen buyers stretch their budget for a screened-in lanai with a modern saltwater pool. But we’ve also seen the opposite—homes sitting on the market because of cracked decking, outdated filters, or the sheer cost of repairs.

The harsh truth? A pool is like a car. If it’s well taken care of, it’s a great asset. If it’s not, it becomes someone else’s problem—and that someone might be you.

Here are some eye-opening takeaways from the episode:

A basic in-ground pool in Florida can cost $35K–$60K to install… but insurance and maintenance costs can add thousands each year if you’re not prepared.

Many buyers don’t realize you can roll pool upgrades or new construction into your mortgage—but only if you plan ahead during underwriting.

Community pools—especially in newer Orlando-area HOAs—can offer the same lifestyle benefit without the upkeep, but they rarely help with resale value the way a private pool does.

And here’s the kicker: some pools, especially those with outdated systems or unclear permits, can actually decrease your property value.

The good news? Knowledge is power. And if you’re reading this, you’re already ahead of the game.

So, whether you’re shopping for homes with pools in Sanford, debating a pool install in Lake Mary, or trying to decide if it’s time to update your old chlorinator in Altamonte Springs, this episode will give you the context and clarity you need.

Because in the end, a pool can be a smart investment. But only if it’s the right one, in the right place, with the right plan.

Until next time, stay smart, stay cool, and remember: real estate is about the lifestyle you live today and the return you’ll get tomorrow.

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