Interesting question "is it wiser" - most of the time it is more cost effective to purchase a home with a pool, I liked James' answer. As far a pool contractors, at Coldwell Banker we offer concierge service for our clients with a lifetime of privileges.

Normally, homes with pools have a higher list price that those that don't.
Personally, I have bought homes with and without. When you buy one with,
you aren't always sure about the history of the pool and possible defects
and/or repairs. If you were to buy a home without, you can easily put one
in based on your taste, budget and desired location. The contract you hire
would have to a soils assessment for ground stability and presence of
large rocks which cost extra to remove. A reliable pool contractor should be
easy to find. You can ask your realtor for referrals, check the local Better
Business Bureau and call on the contractor's references. Be sure to get
at least three bids.

Hi, Sharon. (By the way, Day was my mother's maiden name!) We decided we wanted to build a pool and I got 4 estimates from different companies. They ranged from $40k to $100k!

James brought out some excellent points. Some people have pool companies come out and "remodel" older pools, but even that is costly. I liked his idea of asking that the pool equipment update be part of the negotiating.

All my best,
Dot

Newer pools feature more expensive and much more efficient pool pumps. in addition styling is different than some years ago. On the other hand the pump equipment is an easy change/upgrade that could be negotiated at the sale. Installing a pool is often difficult due to the difficulties of grading and digging so some due dilligence is needed.