Welcome to our forum.
It took a couple wet tests to really dial in what worked for us, so I wouldn't start thinking you've found your tub until you've really tried it. If you have the time, just bring a suit and try it tomorrow when you go!
As a Hot Spring dealer, I have a bias. I think they are a well made hot tub by an exceptional manufacturer. I think they are pretty straight forward to work on and parts availability should be good for years.If you are comfortable with the dealer and the wet test is good, then I see no reason not to. Not sure what your budget is, but I would also look at the Aria. It’s going to be more money, but it’s my 2nd best selling Hot Spring (Grandee is my best seller).
No dis on HS but 12 grand for the Flair? A lotta spa's out there that could fit the bill at a somewhat lower price. Any good brand of spa's parts are available. One spa is really no harder to work then another these days. Like I said not dissing HS they build a nice spa, IMO I wouldn't pay 12 grand for the Flair. But that's me. Curious what else is around you for brands?
I'm going to add my 2 cents. I agree with Jim, $12k is substantial and there are many that should be considered. I know its so exciting right now, and you want to pull the trigger. I personally wet tested 3 brands, 6 tubs, and changed my mind a couple times. I'm glad I did and did not buy my first choice. Good luck.
You might want to state what you're getting for $12k besides the spa and cover. What else is in the package? Is that the negotiated price or the initial price quoted? Have you wet tested?
Just an FYI. The dealer that you buy from is the only dealer that is obligated to perform service work, warranty or not, on your hot tub. A dealer 1.5 hours away will likely charge service call fees related to the distance from their store but also will not likely be able to be as responsive to service needs as a local dealer would.
My goal when researching tubs is to find the toyota camry of hot tubs. I don't need fancy things like waterfalls, light shows and radios. I'd like a reliable, straight forward, but nice hot tub that will give me many years of trouble free service. In turn I will treat it like I do my cars. All maintenance will be done on or ahead of time.