Should I Wait for Lower Interest Rates to Buy a New Pool in 2025? Comparing The Cost To Material Cost Increases.

If you’re thinking about building a pool, you’ve likely heard the advice: “Wait until interest rates come down; then it’ll be cheaper.” This seems logical at first glance—if interest rates drop, financing a pool could cost less. But what if waiting actually costs you more?

Here’s the surprising truth: while you’re waiting for those interest rates to dip, the cost of materials to build your pool is steadily climbing. Over the past 50+ years, we at Shasta have seen interest rates fluctuate and material costs consistently change. In Arizona, where pool season is nearly year-round, delaying your decision could mean a significant increase in the price of that dream backyard oasis.

In this article, you’ll learn:

• The impact of rising material costs on pool construction.
• How waiting for interest rates to drop may not save you money.
• Real examples and cost comparisons to guide your decision.

After reading this article, you’ll have a clearer sense as to when the right time to buy a pool is.

The Reality of Rising Pool Material Costs

Before we dive into the numbers, let’s talk about what’s happening in the market today. Pool material costs have been steadily climbing for several reasons, which is no surprise when you consider that a loaf of bread that once cost $2 might now be $5. From global supply chain issues to inflation and the increasing demand for home improvement projects, these aren’t just market trends—they’re economic realities affecting anyone considering building a pool.

How Much Have Common Pool Materials Increased In Price?

1. Concrete: A critical component in most in-ground pools, concrete prices have risen by 10% over the last two years due to high demand and supply chain bottlenecks. Experts project further increases.
2. Steel: Essential for pool frames and reinforcement, steel prices have surged nearly 20% in just the past two years. Waiting another year could mean paying even more.
3. Plumbing & PVC: With oil prices fluctuating, the cost of PVC—used in most pool plumbing—has jumped by 15% since 2020, with no signs of dropping.
4. Pool Equipment: Everything from pumps to heaters is getting more expensive. A variable-speed pump that cost $1,200 a few years ago could now set you back $1,500 or more – and that’s not an uncommon example. So with that example you’re looking at roughly 25% price increases in the last couple of years for pool equipment.
5. Finishing Materials: Decorative tiles, plaster, and pebble finishes have also seen significant price increases, which has equated to finishing material costs up by around 12%.

The Longer You Wait, The More Expensive It May Get

The trend is clear: these material costs are going to keep rising. According to experts, the price of essential pool materials has been increasing by an average of 10-15% annually. So, even if interest rates fall a percentage point or two, you’re likely looking at a much more expensive pool simply due to the higher costs of raw materials.

Let’s be candid—telling you to “buy now” probably sounds like what a used car salesperson would say. And we get it! No one likes to feel pressured into making a major decision. But here’s the thing: when you break down the numbers, it’s not just a sales tactic—it’s a financially legitimate thing to do.

Comparing Interest Rates vs. Material Costs: What Really Impacts Your Bottom Line More?

You might be wondering: What’s more expensive—a higher interest rate or higher material costs?

That’s a great question! So let’s look at it with an example to show how these factors stack up.

Example Calculation: Interest Rate Savings vs. Material Cost Increases

Here’s a hypothetical scenario for you to consider:

• Scenario 1: You decide to buy a pool today. Let’s assume the interest rate on your loan is 7%, and the total cost of your pool is $60,000 (based on today’s material prices).
  • With a 15-year loan at 7%, your monthly payment would be around $540.
• Scenario 2: You wait a year, hoping that interest rates drop to 6%. In that time, material costs increase by 15%. Now, your pool costs $69,000.
  • With a 15-year loan at 6%, your monthly payment would be around $580.

That’s right, even with a lower interest rate, you’re still paying more each month because the overall cost of the pool increased. While you might save a little in interest, the higher material costs end up costing you more in the long run.

And remember, this is just a one-year projection. Imagine if you wait longer and those material costs continue to rise—your pool could cost thousands more than it would today.

FAQs About Pool Pricing and Interest Rates

Let’s address a few common questions we get from potential pool buyers like yourself:

Will Interest Rates Really Go Down Soon?

• No one has a crystal ball, but financial experts suggest that rates may stabilize or even rise further before they drop. The current economic environment is unpredictable, and banking on significantly lower rates in the near future could leave you paying more in the end due to higher material costs.

Can I Lock in Pool Prices Now?

• Yes! At Shasta Pools, we can help you lock in today’s prices for a limited time, even if you decide to finance later. This is one of the ways we help protect our customers from unpredictable market fluctuations.

What Other Costs Should I Consider?

• Beyond just material and loan costs, you should also consider long-term maintenance, energy efficiency, and how delaying your pool installation might increase these expenses as well. Energy-efficient pool equipment is also subject to price increases, so acting now could save you money on operating costs later.

So, Should I Wait For Lower Interest To Buy A New Pool?

So, what’s the takeaway? While waiting for interest rates to drop might seem like the logical choice, rising material costs could quickly wipe out any potential savings benefit.

If You Buy a Pool Now:

• If you lock in current material pricing, then you can avoid the risk of future industry price fluctuations.
• If you choose to finance your project, then you can secure the best available interest rates now, rather than risk higher rates later.
• If there are current product promotions, then you can take advantage of these limited-time offers before they expire.

If You Wait to Buy:

• If material costs continue to rise, then the cost of building your pool could increase, offsetting any potential savings from lower interest rates.
• If interest rates decrease, then you could secure a lower rate, but remember, rates can also fluctuate upwards again.
• If the pool industry slows or the economy enters a recession, then there may be new promotions that better suit your project needs.

At Shasta Pools, we understand that making the decision to build a pool is a significant investment. That’s why we’re committed to helping you make the best financial decision for your family. With our customized financing options and price guarantees, we can help you start building your dream pool today—before the cost goes up even more.

If you’re serious about building a pool, waiting for interest rates to drop could end up costing you more in the long run due to rising material prices. Instead, take advantage of today’s rates and lock in your pool’s price before it climbs even higher. Reach out to Shasta Pools today to get started and ensure that you’re making the smartest financial move for your backyard oasis.