Full width project banner image

Selling or Buying a Home with a Pool

Your Essential Guide to Pool Ownership in Perth's Northern Suburbs

Dec 11, 2024

Share this article

If you’ve been dreaming of lounging by your pool this summer, you’re not alone—especially in Perth’s northern suburbs! According to recent data from Domain, ‘pools’ topped the list of most-searched keywords in the area last quarter.

Whether you’re buying or selling a home with a pool, it’s vital to understand the responsibilities, compliance requirements, and opportunities that come with pool ownership. To help, the Noble Avenue Real Estate team has crafted this guide to help homeowners and buyers alike make informed decisions about properties with pools or spas.

Pool Safety Compliance: A Non-Negotiable for Perth Homeowners

In Western Australia, strict regulations ensure pools are safe for families and communities. All pools deeper than 30cm must meet compliance standards, including safety barriers with:

  • Self-closing, self-latching gates.
  • Non-climbable fences that are at least 1.2 metres high.

These standards are outlined in Australian Standard (AS 1926.1-2012), and non-compliance can result in legal consequences for homeowners.

For Sellers: Be Prepared

Selling a home with a pool? Compliance is key. You’ll need to obtain a compliance certificate before listing your property. This not only ensures a smooth sales process but also reassures potential buyers that the pool is safe and ready to use.

  • Unsure about compliance? Arrange an inspection with your local council or a certified pool safety expert.
  • Non-compliance consequences: Delays in the sale process, reduced buyer interest, or costly last-minute upgrades.

For Buyers: Be Informed

When purchasing a home with a pool in Perth, always request the compliance certificate during negotiations. Beyond legal safety requirements, verify that all features, such as gates and fences, are in good working order.

Noble Avenue Real Estate Team insider tip: Hire a professional pool inspector to assess the pool for:

  • Structural issues like cracks or leaks.
  • Equipment functionality, including filtration systems.
  • Any updates required for compliance.

Your Ultimate Guide to Buying or Selling a Home with a Pool

 

Maintenance and Costs: What Sellers and Buyers Need to Know

For Sellers: Showcase a Well-Maintained Pool

A well-maintained pool not only creates a great first impression but also enhances your home’s value. To achieve this consider:

  • Cleanliness: Remove debris, balance chemicals, and clean tiles.
  • Filtration System: Ensure all equipment is in optimal working condition.
  • Upgrades: Address wear and tear, such as resurfacing the deck or replacing damaged tiles.

Transparency is also key. Provide buyers with a record of recent pool servicing, equipment updates, and any warranties.

 

For Buyers: Plan for Ongoing Maintenance

Pools bring joy but also come with ongoing expenses. Consider costs for:

  • Regular cleaning and chemical treatments.
  • Energy for pumps and heaters.
  • Maintenance or replacement of equipment like filters or chlorinators.

Noble Avenue Real Estate Team insider tip: Ask the seller for details about the pool’s servicing history and typical costs to budget accordingly. You can also hire a professional to assess the pool for cracks, leaks, or outdated systems to avoid post-purchase surprises.

Your Ultimate Guide to Buying or Selling a Home with a Pool

 

Is a Pool Right for Your Lifestyle?

Pools are more than just a property feature—they represent a lifestyle of leisure, entertaining, and family fun. But it’s essential to assess whether the pool fits your needs:

  • Design: Is the pool the right size for your family? Does it complement the property’s layout?
  • Child Safety: Families with young children should prioritise safety features, including compliant barriers and gates.
  • Maintenance Commitment: Are you prepared for the upkeep?

In Perth’s northern suburbs—where outdoor entertaining is a way of life—a pool can significantly enhance your home’s value or daily living. However, it’s essential to evaluate its practicality alongside its appeal.

Pool Presentation: Making the Most of Your Pool’s Potential

A well-presented pool can significantly increase your property’s value. At Noble Avenue Real Estate, we offer styling and renovation services through Noble Elevate to enhance your pool area and any other areas of the home to make it stand out and maximise your properties price at sale.

Our team can transform your pool area into a show-stopping feature:

  • Professional Styling: We stage the area with outdoor furniture, potted plants, and lighting to create an inviting lifestyle image.
  • Minor Renovations: Address wear and tear with upgrades like resurfacing the deck, replacing tiles, or refreshing landscaping.

These changes not only make your property more attractive to buyers but also help you secure the best possible price.

 

Why Choose Noble Avenue Real Estate?

As trusted experts in Perth’s northern suburbs real estate, we understand the unique needs of homeowners and buyers when it comes to properties with pools. Whether you’re selling a luxury home in Hillarys, buying your first family property in Currambine or upgrading to a larger home in Carine, our team ensures every detail is accounted for.

Contact Us Today:

With a focus on compliance, presentation, and lifestyle, we’ll help you navigate the exciting journey of buying or selling a home with a pool.