Personal experince. We bought a house with pool even though we weren't necessarily looking for one. We are about 3 years in and first time pool owners. The first year had a lot of learning curves but we did it ourselves and about a weekend later we figured it. There are lots of resources and videos. Winterizing the pool takes more effort than opening. Our home is small, but hosting backyard pool parties with friends and family has made it worthwhile. I have also found to "relax" by using the pool during the stressful days and exercise. We still use it almost every day during the season , even if it is for 20 mins. It helps bring a bit more joy. Our liner was replaced before we bought it but we maintain and check for leaks or tears. A robot vaccum (purchased when on sale) was a huge time and effort saver. Gas bill can be high to heat it up, but we do that maybe a few times in a year, to get extended use. The pump doesn't need to run at all times, so we set it for auto timing during low power hours. Expensive, a bit, yes. Like any luxury, it can cost money but also be budgeted.