northern virginia tub researcher

In the 12/19 post, "fisrt timer" lists the features in his HEET. So taking his price/features at (7800 before tax), and comparing it to my $9600 quote +625 (list price for water mgmt system)+350 (24+3 LED lights)+ 305 for stainless steel jets=$10,880. So I think that looks like apples to apples and shows a $3K gap. I understand pricing is based on numerous factors like inventory, volume purchase agreements, timing, etc, but 3K sounds way off. Or even 2K if I go by the price at the fair. As far as the caldera goes, my friend bought one this summer so i have his exact pricing and understand the differences between the two spas, so I have a strong position. What I'm looking for is the strategy on how to haggle. Both the dealers called me again today. Thanks for any help.

fisrt timer, or anyone else, I just completed my selection process and also settled on the LA Spas HEET model. I came down to the Caldera Niagara and LA Spas HEET as the final 2. I also wet tested hotsprings, artesian, marquis, master, jacuzzi, clearwater. I have a lot of problems with my neck/shoulders and these two seem like they solve my problems the best, and the HEET and Niagra seemed to fit me (6'1") perfectly in each seat. (assuming no neck collar in the 2nd corner seat on the HEET). The clearwater looked awesome on paper, but the performance was disappointing. I felt like I was floating out of the jacuzzi seats. The Marguis was solid. The Masters seemed to make me itch instead of relax. The hotsprings was uninspiring compared to others and the artesian just didn't fit. However, I'm not having much luck in the negociating process. I have a quote on the table for $9600 for the HEET 3 pump/61 jets/113 ports, 5in cover, lifter,steps, ozone,start up kit, delivery/install. This seems like a mile away from the $7800 quote including the WMS (water mgmt system) and stainless jet rings that fisrt timer got 10 mths ago. I am in virgina so shipping out east is probably worth something, but seems like I got a good $3K gap. Any advice would be great!!