Hi,

I am about to begin the process of building a new home in South Texas in the next couple of months. I have decided I would like to also have a pool in the new home. I have a few questions.

1. Is this something I should bring up to my home builder? Is it advisable to start the constructions of a new pool while the home is being build? or should we wait.

2. What type of pool (motor, material, etc) should we get so cost is low maintenance? I would prefer to pay more upfront for something that is easy to maintain and is energy efficient.

3. What is expected cost in increase of monthly utility bills? Energy & water.

I have been reading mixed information on the internet. I have read to expect electricity bills to go up by $10 - $300/month. That is a wide variation!

I REALLY want a pool and don't mind the maintenance involved; however, an energy bill of $500/month (it is an energy star home and we are unsure about electricity cost, but figuring on average $200/month) is something I will have to think twice about!

Thanks for any info you can provide!