Al...
I hummed & hawed over the concept of an in-ground pool.
Basically I found the idea didn't hold water...

On a more serious note...what about the idea of a water garden, you know, a pond, small waterfall, babbling brook sort of thing.
It's guaranteed to up the value of your property, and it's relatively low maintenance, depending on it's complexity or simplicity.
Our neighbour put in a water garden, ran him about $30,000. He's got a pond, two small waterfalls, lily pads, the whole nine yards.
Increased the value of his place immediately......and mine, because of the view.

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...shboom