Was anyone else on the fence about buying a house with a pool?

Pool newbie here (maybe). Considering a property with a 17 year old pool. Unsure of condition but it looks fine and nice and clean to my untrained eyes.

I suspect it might be on the edge of needing maintenance and I’m trying to get a sense of what we are signing up for.

We weren’t looking for a pool specifically but also open to it and I see the benefits. Right now I’m wanting to enjoy it this summer but a big part of me is seriously considering filling it in and creating yard space in the coming years.

I am nervous about safety with kids, and feeling like I will never be able to relax if they’re playing outside. We’re members at a gym with a beautiful pools and lifeguards just minutes away. If we are even considering us removing pool I’m tempted to do it sooner than later and eliminate any maintenance or repair costs asap just because I know that adds up, but my husband wants to keep it for a few years while we have tiny kids that would never be outside without us anyway and just see how we feel about pool ownership.

Stats:

17 year old pool

Broken heater

Unsure if liner is original (looks vinyl)

Home inspector won’t do a detailed look at pool and I can’t seem to find a pool expert that offers inspections for buyers in my area.

Did anyone face a similar dilemma? I may LOVE it but I’m intimidated by the cost and the undercurrent of worry I’d have if the kids are outside with friends, etc. as they get older.