[DM101]

I just finished my Villages visit that included time at the design center. I was told that if I wanted a pool it wold be best to have it built along with the home. From what I read on the forums it seems to make sense from a timing standpoint. As things tend to change I’m wondering if anyone can share feedback from a recent build. What options you were given: shape, spa, pool deck, heating, etc. Thanks in advance.

[asianthree]

Originally Posted by paulhayes101@yahoo.com

I just finished my Villages visit that included time at the design center. I was told that if I wanted a pool it wold be best to have it built along with the home. From what I read on the forums it seems to make sense from a timing standpoint. As things tend to change I’m wondering if anyone can share feedback from a recent build. What options you were given: shape, spa, pool deck, heating, etc. Thanks in advance.

Options are no longer an Option for pools at build. No modifications from plan A or B. Yes you get a pool when you move in, but if you are spending $100,000 to 150,000 don’t you want a pool you want. We choose aftermarket, had company come soon as footings were in. Yes 12 months, but getting a free form pool, with no sun shelf, (not a fan no sun shelf, mean more pool to use) panoramic view birdcage. Some pool companies are booking sooner, we are going with a long standing family company

[Altavia]

Need to be very careful selecting a contractor other than TCL. We see construction taking over a year with some other companies .

IMHO - If I wanted a pool, I'd look at pre owned homes. Especially with the limited design options offered now days.

[PoolBrews]

Do's and Don'ts when looking at a pool from ANY builder.

Do's
Do Get autofill/drain (This is a must have here in FL)
Do Replace dual drains with Channel Drain
Do Install handrail at build time
Do Get a robot to clean pool and sidewalls (Buy on your own after install)
Do Ensure salt cell is rated for 2x pool size
Do get largest available heat pump (140K) (if going with heat pump)
Do Get a water line run near equipment pad
Do Get a light installed over the equipment pad
Do Get full automation
Do Make sure pump is Variable Speed
Do Go with a larger filter (300-400 sq ft)

Don'ts
Don't Give final payment until pool is operational (If you can get builder to agree - most won't)
Don't install suction return line

While your pool is being installed, check out the TroubleFree pool site. This site provides great info on how to care for your pool - even if you don't want to maintain it, it helps to understand what should be checked and why.

Unless you're getting a hot tub attached that needs quick heat, go with a heat pump. They are far cheaper to run than a gas heater and work well here in FL.

Do your research and you'll find that solar heat is waste of money. It costs the same to install as either electric or gas, works well when you don't need it, and can't keep the pool warm when you really do. You'll still need to add a 2nd heat source to keep the pool warm in cooler weather.