Buying a Hot Tub: Being Fooled by a “Spa Expo” Can Be Pretty Discouraging

“The bitterness of poor quality is remembered long after the sweetness of low price has faded from memory”.
Often you will see urgent advertising for a Spa Expo or other misleading promotion from local and non-local dealers trying to give the impression they are having an Expo featuring many dealers and brands. These are nothing more than misleading advertising tactics to make it seem like its something it is not. This piqued our interest as a topic we felt worth exploring so we investigated this scenario to better communicate the reality of ‘expos’ like this. Here’s what we found:
• While these ’expos’ may a be good places to visit to get ideas, they are not a good place to make a purchase decision on a big-ticket item. Certainly do not put any sort of major deposit as a down payment. If you do make a down payment, make it very small and use a credit card so you have cancellation privileges. If the dealer wants your business, the “deal” will be there after the show and will give you the right to cancel with full refund if you change your mind. Beware if they tell you anything different.
• Make sure the brand is recognizable and has been around a long time. At the end of the day, the manufacturer of the spa is going to be your final source of service if the dealer fails or leaves.
• Many companies send professional sales teams to these type ’shows’ that are accustomed to pressuring visitors to buy. Oftentimes, these high-pressure tactics lead to impulse purchases and significant buyer’s remorse.
• Another area of concern is contracts versus verbal promises. It’s easy to get wrapped up in what you think is a “good deal” when surrounded by the excitement and environment of a ‘spa show’ environment and sales pitch. We have all seen recent stories of pool and spa companies going out of business.
Although there may be some good things about sales like these, it’s important to be wary of deals that are too good to be true and high pressure sales tactics. What’s most important is that you take your time and explore your options. This is a long term investment that can quickly turn bad if you make an impulsive choice. Remember, the bitterness of poor quality is remembered long after the sweetness of low price has faded from memory.
As you consider an investment in a hot tub, we suggest you consider the Jacuzzi® brand product, the worlds oldest hot tub manufacturer and the originator of hydrotherapy. Visit our showroom anytime for questions and a thorough tour of all that Imagine Backyard Living and the Jacuzzi® brands have to offer!

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