The $145,000 Pool Installation in Austin, TX

Welcome to Nosy Neighbor, where we ask all the questions you can’t about home projects and money. From incredible deals to domestic dramas, we’re bringing you real stories—and the real numbers.

Want to (anonymously) share your own story? Let’s get honest, neighbor.

Age: 50

Location: Austin, TX

How much did you pay for your home?

Over $1 million

What was the project, and why did you do it?

Pool installation

How many quotes did you get? Did you price shop at all?

I got two quotes.

What did you think it was going to cost?

$130,000

What did it actually cost?

$145,000

Why the difference?

There were additional costs not originally considered in the project—fixing irrigation, landscaping, etc.

How did you get the money to pay for the project?

Savings

What did you splurge on that was totally worth it?

Landscaping ($15,000)

What did you splurge on that totally wasn’t worth it?

[I went with] too big of a pool—I could have used a smaller one.

Did you cut any corners?

No

What was the most surprising cost?

Re-doing the irrigation system ($5,000)

What was the most stressful, emotional, or exciting part of the project?

Breaking ground—with the hydraulic hammer hitting concrete-like ground for seven days, eight hours a day.

Any advice?

Get a good and reliable pool builder. It is a very stressful and costly endeavor. Do not cut corners; it will come back to haunt you.