Every so often, you'll see the signs advertising a "HUGE HOT TUB & SPA" sale happening at the Ag Center in Asheville.
Well our friends over at Outdoor Living and More filled us in on what's really going on and put together some helpful tips to make sure you don't get caught in a buyer's trap!
1. It’s not worth the hype
Typically these shows are advertised like there will be multiple manufacturers there, with multiple brands on display. In fact, this spa expo is being put on by one company who is there only sell the products which only they sell. Realistically, you are going to a traveling road show put on by one company. Do not fall for this hype. Competing manufacturer’s will not organize an event to sell their products together. It is up to a company/dealer to decide if they want to sell multiple brands.
2. High pressure salesmen
You will be greeted by salesmen who are usually 100% commission based. These salesmen are professionals, and are there to close deals. Do not expect to be given the luxury to think about your decision, because you will be put on the spot with high pressure tactics by trained professionals.
3. There are no real deals
You will be paying retail prices for these hot tubs. It takes a lot of money to rent the location and pay the staff to set up, tear down, and run it. The only place to get a real deal is in store at the home location of the company/dealer you want to buy a hot tub from. A Spa Expo is designed to attract you there, followed by giving the song and dance about their deals and spas. No matter what the salesman tells you, there are no deals – you are paying retail prices.
4. Poor after sales support and service
Once your traveling road show spa expo leaves town and you’ve received a hot tub, you likely will never see these people ever again, and it will be difficult to get service. If you are buying outside of town and their home base is on the other side of the country, ask yourself how you will be able to receive service or parts in the long run? Are these the kind of people to answer simple questions over the phone? Who will be servicing you? Is there even a warranty?
5. No way to check reputation
Since the spa expo is advertised as a show, you don’t know the company you are dealing with. This company could have changed their name a few times, switched hot tub brands multiple times, or have a terrible reputation. The hype of the show makes you forget about all these important factors. If you were to buy an expensive product, wouldn’t you want to know all the facts about the company you are buying from before purchasing?
6. Always buy local
And don't forget, Outdoor Living and More at the Tanger Outlets is your one stop shop for all things Hot Tubs and Spas...and the best part, they stand behind their products and they are LOCAL!!!
Go see them today!