instructions for a rookie swimming pool owner?
Answers:
It depends a great deal on the type of pool you have (in or above ground, construction material, filter type).
You don't necessarily need a professional, but find a local pool supply store like Pinch-A-Penny or Leslie's at first. They can offer lots of help and advice. Once you know what you're doing, you may find Home Depot or Walmart a good source for chemicals (or stay with the pool supply store).
There are good online sites and books. My favorite book (I bought when moving to a house with a pool) was "What color is your swimming pool?" by John O'Keefe (link below).
Good luck and have fun!
Other answers:
hire a knowledgeable pool-guy that is not an illegal alien.
hire a knowledgeable pool-guy that is not an illegal alien.
Vacuum 3x week, minimum, keep chlorine at required level, have a pool service store(many do free water quality testing) check for TDS (total dissolved solids).
Plenty of good advice here.