Key takeaways
- Most people finance a pool with a pool loan through the builder's lending partner, a home equity loan or line of credit, a cash-out refinance, or an unsecured personal loan.
- Home equity options use your house as collateral. Pool loans and personal loans usually don't.
- Your rate and terms depend on your credit, income and the lender, so compare offers in writing.
- Get the itemized pool quote first, then borrow for the whole project, including the deck, fence and features.
- This page explains the options. It isn't financial advice, so talk to a lender or financial adviser about your situation.
A pool is one of the bigger projects most Shreveport homeowners take on, and plenty of people finance at least part of it, usually with one of the four options below.
The four common ways to finance a pool
Pool loans through the builder
Many pool contractors work with lenders that offer home improvement loans. These are usually unsecured, so your house isn’t collateral, and some lenders fund the builder directly. Ask the contractor which lenders they use, then compare that offer with one or two you find yourself.
Home equity loan or HELOC
If you have equity in your home, a home equity loan (one lump sum) or a home equity line of credit (borrow as you go) can fund the project. Rates are often lower than unsecured loans because the loan is secured by your house. That’s also the risk: the house backs the debt.
Cash-out refinance
A cash-out refinance replaces your mortgage with a larger one and pays you the difference. Whether it makes sense depends a lot on your current mortgage rate compared with today’s rates, plus closing costs. A lender can run the numbers both ways.
Personal loan from your bank or credit union
A standard personal loan works like a builder-arranged pool loan. Local banks and credit unions in Shreveport and Bossier City offer them, and if you already bank there, it’s worth asking.
What to compare between offers
| Compare | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| APR | Includes the interest rate and most fees, so it’s the fairest side-by-side number |
| Loan term | Longer terms lower the payment and raise the total interest |
| Monthly payment | Fit it into your budget along with running costs |
| Fees | Origination fees, closing costs and any prepayment penalty |
| Collateral | Whether your home secures the loan |
| Funding | Whether money goes to you or straight to the builder, and when |
Get the quote before the loan
Borrow against a real number. Get itemized written quotes for the whole project first: the pool, decking, fence, equipment, lighting and landscaping. Our inground pool cost guide explains what moves that number in Shreveport. Then add a cushion for running costs like power, water, chemicals and upkeep.
If you’re planning a custom build, the luxury pools page covers the features that drive the budget.
This guide explains common options in general terms. It isn’t financial advice, and we don’t arrange loans. For your situation, talk to a lender or a financial adviser.
Frequently asked questions
Do pool builders in Shreveport offer financing?
Many work with lenders that offer pool loans, and some can start the application during the quote. Mention financing on our quote form and the contractor will tell you what they offer.
Is a pool loan the same as a personal loan?
Usually, yes. Most pool loans are unsecured personal loans from lenders that specialize in home improvement projects. Terms and rates vary by lender and by your credit.
Can I use my home equity to pay for a pool?
Yes, through a home equity loan, a home equity line of credit (HELOC) or a cash-out refinance. Rates are often lower because the loan is secured by your house, which also means the house is at risk if you can't repay. A lender can explain the trade-offs.
How much should I borrow?
Base it on an itemized written quote for the whole project. Decking, fencing, lighting and landscaping often add a large share on top of the pool itself, and running costs continue after the build.
Will a pool change my insurance or taxes?
It can. Ask your insurance agent about liability coverage and any fence or cover requirements, and expect the improvement to be considered when your home is assessed.