chat

I'm new to the boards, been lurking for a little while and decided it was time to make a move. I've got a few questions, I was looking to spend $6-$8K (somewhat flexible if something more expensive really jumped out at me) and had it narrowed down to Caldera v Sundance since the dealers are within 10 miles of my house. Aside from Master Spas/Freestyle all the other higher end dealers were at least 45 minutes away. How do I accurately compare models? I know Sundance has the different series, 880, 780, 680 but I'm still having trouble comparing them with models on Caldera's side. For instance, does the Hawthorne compare to the Moorea or do I have to go to Tiger River/Hot Spot to get a spa that's even with that. Same with Certa, Hamilton and Burlington. As you can see I'm looking at a lounger. From what I can tell the Burlington is on par with the Olympia, Hawthorne - Moorea, Hamilton - Tahitian and Cameo - Geneva. I could be way off though, I've only just begun. About how much cheaper should an '09 floor model be over it's 2010 counterpart? I realize there's no one true answer considering if it's been wet, etc. I'm just looking for an estimate. The Caldera dealer still has some '09s, the Sundance dealer does not. About how much are you guys finding it is to have someone put in the concrete pad? I can do it myself but depending on the price I might not want to. What about a hardwired 220v line? About 40 feet from where it needs to be. Last question, I only live on a third of an acre so privacy will be a little bit of an issue. Do most people put up pergola's, buy a gazebo or an umbrella? I have the two dealers coming to do a site inspection early next week (considering a pool also) so I'll get an answer to some of the questions but I'd rather go into the conversations with as much knowledge as I can. I have not wet tested anything yet as I didn't want to get too attached to one spa over another and lose any negotiating power I have....the lack of pricing info out there is a real PITA. Thanks in advance for your help.