MAY NEWSLETTER

Owning a Pool

Does a pool add value to my property? Before diving in…read this first!

When it comes to determining if a swimming pool adds value to your home, the reviews run from hot to cold. 

 

On the nay side, home experts say as much as you treasure that gorgeously expensive water feature in your backyard, when it comes time to sell, others may hate it, especially those who have young children because they see it as a big safety hazard. Families with middle-aged parents and teenagers are more likely to be smitten by thoughts of splashing around in the hot sun.

 

Then there are the ongoing maintenance and security costs of owning a pool. Not only will your energy costs shoot through the roof, so will your maintenance expenses. Pools cost approximately $1,000 to $2,000 per year to operate.  Having a pool also raises your homeowner’s insurance rates.

 

But…if you do love the water and plan on using a pool frequently, and have no immediate plans to move, then that kidney-shaped dream may be a good decision for you. 

 

Also, if you live in a neighbourhood of pricey homes, not having a pool may be a deterrent. This has more to do with keeping up with the Joneses – those neighbours in your upscale locale whom already have pools. But you’re not likely to get significantly more money for your house because of its pool; you’re just as likely to be viewed favourably.

 

Aesthetically speaking, pools, especially inground ones, are the crème de la crème in pool options. And with our fascination of bringing our living space outdoors, the sparkle of blue water and the sound of splashing and laughter that emanates from this luxury item, can’t be beat as a focal point.

 

If you love to entertain, there’s nothing better than hosting parties that centre around the pool. Pools are also great for cooling down on a hot summer’s day and for doing exercises such as water aerobics.

 

Expect to pay between $30,000 and $50,000 for an inground pool. Your costs could also run higher given associated expenditures for landscaping.

According to the Appraisal Institute of Canada, the average recovery rate of a pool investment is low and stands between zero and 25 per cent.

 

Bottom line: don’t expect to recover the full cost of putting in a pool, especially with our Canadian weather when our summers seems to be getting shorter and shorter. A pool adds value to your own family’s lifestyle if you truly love diving in and soaking up all the good things a pool has to offer. If you’re truly only doing it for investment purposes, then do your research and make your decisions based on the facts.

Any questions give me a call

Todd Fryer

Broker 

Century21 Aberwin Realty

905 869-3473

It’s never too early to start preparing your lawn for summer. As the days begin to get warmer dedicating a few spring hours to your lawn, will help produce that beautiful lush grass you will love all summer. Adding that little extra pizzazz to your home, a healthy summer lawn begins with spring maintence.

Start Early
Even if it still feels a little chilly, it’s never too early to begin your lawn work. Cold winter temperatures require you give a little extra love at the beginning of spring. Be aware winter can also alter the pH of soil, encouraging weed growth. Check your soils pH level (aiming for a neutral 7) and balance as needed. Early weeding, fertilizing and mowing will also help produce that beautiful lush green lawn.

Know Your Soil 
The first key to a beautiful lawn is determining the type of soil you have and how to best work with it. Simply grab a handful and determine if it is tightly packed, holds its shape or runs through your fingers.
Claylike Soil is sticky and does not break. This causes trouble for plants trying to establish roots.

Sandy Soil runs through your fingers, unfortunately water will also slips through quickly, preventing roots from absorbing essential nutrients.
Loam Soil holds shape until crumbled. This is ideal for plants as roots can push through the soil, while still being thick enough to hold water and nutrients. Don’t get discouraged if you find you have claylike or sandy soil. Adding compost will help you create a more loamy texture. Adding grass and plant clippings through the season will also keep your soil loamy.

Keeping it Lush
Choose a lawn seed that compliments the sunlight your grass receives and do not be afraid to re-seed throughout the season if you notice rough patches. Be diligent with weeding to prevent grass from competing with weeds for water and nutrition. Cutting grass when it reaches 4 inches will prevent stress on your lawn. If you find grass loss in high traffic areas, simply poking through dense soil will help to regenerate grass. In terms of nutrition, always water lawns early in the morning to prevent heat evaporation or frying and use a time release fertilizer to ensure nutrient absorption all summer.
Most importantly, remember to take time and kick your shoes off to enjoy the wonderful benefits of your lush green healthy lawn.
 I hope you find this information useful as there is nothing more pleasant then the feeling of soft grass between your toes on a beautiful summer day.

Any Questions always feel free to call me.


Todd Fryer
Sales Representative
Century 21
905 869-3473
www.toddfryer.com