Spa pricing

[boxer95]

Hello, my wife and I are getting ready to purchase a spa and are concerned about the cost. We are looking at the Caldera Tahitian and the local dealer (the only spa dealer within 100 miles btw) is offering it at approx $7400.00. Is this reasonable for that model?

Is spa pricing set by the manufacturers?
Is spa pricing negotiable?

The dealer is also telling us they will supply a sub-panel that our electriction must use. Is this common?

Thanks in advance for your insight!

[mhraracing]

Boxer - try doing a few searches using Caldera as a word - Im sure you will find answers to many of your questions.

One answer I know for sure is - Yes Spa prices are negotiable and the Spa panel comes with every caldera spa.

AS for the price given to you.....it seems to me that spa prices vary greatly by region - It may be a great price depending on you area and what EXTRAs the dealer is giving you.

[boxer95]

First, thanks for the reply.
Secound, 96 views and one reply? I was hoping for more reply's.
Third, so I take it buying a hot tub is similar to buying a car?
Is there a list price somewhere or some sort of  price gauge so that we can determine if we are getting raped or not?

Thanks so much for your time!

[windsurfdog]

Secound, 96 views and one reply? I was hoping for more reply's.

That's because mhra's answer was so good--follow his advice and good luck.

[Brewman]

Wet test and if you like that spa, negotiate the best price you can and go forward from there.   If the dealer lets you walk vs making a sale, you know that you're hitting their price.

Prices vary too much across the country for anyone to validate your price.  In general it seems most premium spas come in at $7K plus- so your price seems to be in the general ball park.  

Most quotes include a cover, steps, startup chems, and delivery.  Does your price include those?  Also get a cover lifter if one isn't part of your package.

The only other suggestion would be to get price quotes on similar spas from other brands, and compare that way.  But if you may not have that option if you live so far away from spa dealers.