[Bonanza]

Having had a couple of pools, the one thing I wouldn't live without is a self-cleaning system. They really work well and you don't need a Kreepy-Krauly that you have to remove every time you want to use the pool. In addition, when you remove it, it's always in the way; where to put it is a pain.

Choose a free-form design that has no corners. It's easier to maintain curves than corners that catch the dirt.

You might want a hand rail for those who may have trouble going in or coming out of the pool.

A swimout (bench) with jets is nice but be careful that the jets aren't too forceful. They can hurt and can be annoying.

If you are going to screen in your pool, make sure you have enough sidewalk completely around the pool -- at least 4 feet, but wider is better and makes the pool look better, too.

Forget a fiberglass or vinyl liner pool. A gunite (concrete) pool is the only way to go. Adding a waterfall is pretty but can be expensive. Check out the price with or without one before you decide. You can mimic the sound with a free-standing waterfall that you plug in if you want the sound.