I am looking for a new tub with a budget of $6500 max (with tax, delivery, lifter, etc). I am in Southern California. Tub will be used by six people: me (I am 5’1), hubby who is 6’1 and kids who are 11 yrs, and 18 yr old and also a father-in-law who is 6’2 (who has heavy set build). Majority of the time, hubby (with bad back and knee) will be the primary user, but he refuses to wet-test, which is a challenge for me - Ugh!
My daughter (who is 5'2) and I wet-tested the Marquis Everyday 545. We both liked its layout; but I am on the fence since jets were not strong enough for me. Dealer will sell me a 545 model for $5500 plus tax - not the same one that we tested, but one they have in their warehouse which the dealer said they’ve used at shows and fairgrounds and has "some scratches, no ozone, foamed plumbing and not fully foamed." I am concerned about buying a used model which I haven't personally seen. The $5500 plus tax for a used one also seems high to me - what do you think?
I liked the Jacuzzi jets when I wet tested the J365, but the configuration felt cramped and I felt somewhat drowning while in the tub. A dealer is selling this floor model with lifter at $7300 plus tax. Months ago, I wet- tested (and loved) the J480 but that one is beyond my price range, which dealer quoted me at $12,500.
I am going to wet test the Sundance 680 Hartford, but looking at the dimensions online, this may be a tight fit if everyone in my family is in the water. What do you think?
The Sundance dealer is offering a 2011 or 2012 Hartford for $5995 which includes lifter, delivery, steps, tax. Is that a good price?
I also wet-tested the Hotspot Tempo, which was roomy, but the jets again were not powerful enough.
What other tubs would you recommend that has a similar configuration as the 545 Everyday tub with strong jets (similar to Jacuzzi) at the price max of $6500?
Is December the best time to buy considering the year end and newer models?
When buying a floor model, what would you recommend asking for (aside from additional discount) and things I should consider / be concerned about?
I need to buy a tub ASAP, so I’d greatly appreciate getting your valuable feedback ASAP please. Thanks in advance.