Seeking some good advice

[tjhutch70]

We are about to begin the process of purchasing a hot tub.  We live in Southern California and are looking at an outside spa with a capacity of 5-6 people.  So far we have looked at the Jacuzzi J-345 and the Coleman C-470, both are fairly comparable in price around the $6,500 mark, which is about the upper limit of what we would like to spend.  I would welcome any advice on other models to look at, and any owner recommendations on the above two models.  Also any local dealer recommendations would be appreciated, we are located in South Orange County.  Thanks  

[Brewman]

You are off to a good start.  Shop around for several brands, and see what they have to offer in your price range, then start wet testing.  
 You should have a lot of options in that size/price range.  Finding a dealer you are comfortable with is also a good idea.  I'd beware of any dealer who uses negative sales tactics.
Have fun shopping.
Brewman  

[johnnythunders]

Get the jacuzzi J-365 for $6495 or the J-355 for $5995 with delivery Chems cover steps and they are made by Jacucci,If you go with the Jacucci J-345 you are buying a Sweetwater those are the spas sundance trys to sell you when you cannot afford a Sundance.Johnny Thunders

[dano99487]

Purchased the Coleman c-481 deluxe back in April. ..Came with cover,chems,steps,nature 2,spa vac,delivery and setup.$6999 out the door....So far we are very happy with the spa and service...Should have bought one years ago,thats why i have not been on this board,too busy soaking...good luck in your search.It's not easy, but will be well worth it....There are alot of great people on this board with alot of great info........good luck ,Dano

[autoplay]

Good advise......stay away from internet spa dealers. 2nd,stay as far away as possible from CaVeN spas.

(what ya want for free?)

[Roborph]

 I purchased a J-370 in November and have had no problems. I looked at coleman and liked them but they were more $ in my area (cinti, ohio).
   good luck

[dpgtech]

The J-345 is a great spa and so is the coleman.  you should be able to find the 345 for less than 6500 out the door.  The 345 is not a sweetwater.  it does have the same software technology, the same heater, but the jacuzzi 345 has a longer warranty than the sweetwater, a better base, and jacuzzi jets the same ones used in the 355 and up.  the 470 is most comparable to a 355 or 365.  the 345 should be priced under all of these.  the 345 is a great spa just no as many bells and whistles as the 470 or 355/65