How Much is Used Pool Worth

by Dianne
(Lincroft, NJ)

We are considering buying a used 6 yr. old aluminum Esther Williams pool (27ft. round with walk deck, fencing, 9 x 16 patio deck and grand staircase with enclosing gate)It looks new.

It is being offered for $3,000 and $1500 for installation. This seems like a really good deal , what do you think? We are debating whether we should buy this or buy a brand new steel pool for $3,000? The Esther Williams comes with a new liner (in the box), pump, filter, winter cover. The same guy that's selling it would be installing it. Any thoughts? Thanks, Dianne


Hi Dianne. That's a good question with no right or wrong answer . I normally prefer going with used products myself. I think this is the case because I fix or repair everything myself and have little use for warranties. That and I know how much more you can get used for the same money. Your pool might be an example of that.

Your forty five hundred dollar investment will get you a big, top of the line, pool with all the bells and whistles. That same money spent on a new pool will get you a basic pool, maybe not as big, or not as fancy, or without the deck, but a new pool with all the warranties that go with it. If you have problems you have an installer, a pool store, a pool manufacturer and a filter manufacturer all standing behind their products. If something were to happen to your Esther Williams used pool you are on your own.

As for the price, I would like to see it a little lower. But, if it is like new, and the guy can really install it like a pro, it's worth the money. If you get a lousy installation, it will not matter how nice the pool is, you will not enjoy it much.

My only other consideration would be the condition of all the aluminum parts. Aluminum may not rust but it does corrode. Check the inside of the wall and all the bottom rails and footplates. Make sure they all look like new.