DecistionTime

I just ordered a Jacuzzi J-345 for $6500 (including cover, lift, steps, ozone, chems and delivery). I also looked at the Sundance Chelsee, however, they wanted $1000 more. I liked the jets on the Jacuzzi better, plus it has an extra divertor valve. Both are nice spas. I didn't like the layout of the Tiger River Caspian because I wanted 4 corner seats.

Where are the redneck babes! I have been in sales and sales management for over 30 years. Nobody likes a threat to their commissions and potential loss of business, however, the better salespeople are constantly changing and adapting. The most recent example was the introduction of internet sales. Change is a fact of life. If you have a superior product and superior service, you should be able to sell against a low priced Costco option. There is a good possibility that it may even help you increase sales by creating awareness. If you are a professional salesperson you should be positive. Good points. I'm glad you are happy with your new spa. Nobody likes arragant salespeople. And some of the spa salespeople I have met over the past few weeks have been very arragant and sold like timeshare salespeople - "...you need to buy today because this deal will not be available if you come back, ...just put down a deposit, ...inventory is low and you won't be able to get another spa for months and months." I wish all salespeople were professionals - provide a good product at a fair price, offer your experience and be honest, don't lie, treat everyone with respect, follow-up, do what you say you are going to do.

No, however leaning toward the Caldera Martinique. Why? I spoke to one store owner who believes it will create additional installation, service and accessory sales from a segment of the population that would not normally come into his store - and likes to buy from big box retailers.

Everyone - thanks for all the great information. I can get any of the fitst 3 for about the same price so it is decision time. All come with delivery, cover, lift, steps, start-up chemicals, etc. What would you do? 1. Highlife by Hotspring from Costco. Hotspring quality with Costo lifetime satisfaction warranty. Unknown Question is the cost to convert to 220. Warranty is only 1 year, but service comes from local dealer. 2. Tiger River Bengal from local dealer. Quality spa from Watkins that makes Hotsprings. Local dealer support and 5 year warranty. 3. Caldera Martinique from a different local dealer. Quality spa from Watkins that makes Hotsprings. Local dealer support and 5 year warranty. 2 pumps (will I notice?) 4. Pay about $500 additional and get a Hotspring Prodigy. Smaller spa, more money, possibly better? Suggestions?

Why is it that sharkman, spatech and Guzz show up in every post and bash Costco?

You make me laugh! I'm sure all dealers think this way. Pay $2K more and get less warranty! LOL.

So the newer version only costs 46.6% more! And the Costco warranty is better? What am I missing?

Could you please explain how the Hotspring Limited Warranty (5 years) is better than the Costco complete customer satisfaction, return it at any time for any reason warranty? FUD, FUD, FUD, and more FUD. I"m willing to pay a slight premium to deal with a reputable dealer - but why pay significantly more to buy from a dealer when the Costco offers what amounts to a lifetime warranty? Please explain - I am a reaonable person and willing to listen.

I am in the market for a portable spa in the Massachusetts area. Over the past few weeks I have looked at some great spas - my favorites so far are: HotSpring, Caldera, Tiger River and Sundance. I discovered that the first 3 are all made by Watkins and have great reputations. Prices for the models I was interested in range from $6.5K to $8.5K. I have been reading this forum and have seen the posts regarding Costco spas - both pro and con. I checked out Costco.com and found they sell the Highlife - a 6 person spa - by you guessed it - HotSpring Spas. Price is $5699.00 delivered. For less money and more features, Costco offers the Discovery 400 NLXE at $4499.99. This is a 7 person spa with 39 jets, color changing LED, CD stereo, waterfall, etc. WOW. I know from reading this forum that all the spa dealers will jump or over the Costco spas with fear, uncertainty and doubt. But - the Highlife is made by HotSpring/Watkins and they make great products. The Discovery probably can't be beat for features/price - and if it turns out to be a POS - simply return it with the famous Costo complete satisfaction warranty and get something else. Opinions?