Are you in the market for a hot tub? If so, you may be tempted to buy one at a state or city fair. After all, the prices are often too good to pass up. But before you make a purchase, there are a few things you should consider. 

You Get What You Pay For

When it comes to hot tubs, you really do get what you pay for. Hot tubs sold at fairs are often made with cheaper materials and may not be as durable as those sold by local dealers. Some may be display models or demo wet models sold at a discounted price. In addition, fair hot tubs may not come with the same warranties and support as those sold by local dealers. 

Buy Local, Stimulate the Local Economy

Buying locally is not only good for the environment, but it also helps stimulate the local economy. When you buy from a local dealer, you are supporting a business in your community. This helps create jobs and keeps money in the local economy. 

Personal Touch from Employees

When you buy from a local dealer, you also receive the personal touch from employees. They are knowledgeable about the products they sell and can help you find the right hot tub for your needs. In addition, they can provide support and maintenance for your hot tub after the sale. 

Buying Locally Reduces Stress

Buying locally can also reduce stress. When you shop at a local store, you don’t have to deal with the crowds and chaos of a fair. You can take your time and make an informed decision without feeling rushed or pressured. 

Shopping Locally Shapes the Community

When you shop locally, you help shape the community. Local businesses give a town or city its unique character and identity. By supporting local businesses, you help preserve the community’s culture and heritage. 

The Fair is in Town Once a Year to Take Your Money

It’s important to remember that the fair is in town once a year to take your money. Most salespeople are at the fair because they know people price shop at the fair and are off guard with everything going on around them. Most local vendors that are present at the fair usually honor the same price in their stores as the fair. (Hint: State Fair Sale). Save yourself a trip to the fair and just buy from your local dealer. If not, you may find out later that you went all the way to the fair to find out it was the same price in store.

The Questions You Should Be Asking (faq's)

Why are they so cheap? Fair hot tubs are often made with cheaper materials and may not come with the same warranties and support as those sold by local dealers. Also make sure what your purchasing is not a Demo Model or what we call a Wet Model. Demo’s and Wet Models have been filled with water and is probably used and possibly damaged

Where are these fair hot tubs stored? Fair hot tubs are often stored in warehouses or other storage facilities until the fair season begins. They may also be sitting in a trailer that follows the fair from state to state.

What is the warranty on the hot tub? A warranty can provide you with peace of mind and protect you from unexpected repair costs. Make sure you understand what is covered under the warranty and for how long. I would always check to see if there is an extended warranty that can be purchased and how much is it?

What is included in the price of the hot tub? Make sure you understand what is included in the price of the hot tub, such as delivery, installation, and accessories. Don’t get surprised later with delivery fees and add-ons. Also don’t fall for the curbside delivery. Quality Hot Tubs are usually delivered to there designated spot.

What financing options are available? If you need financing to purchase a hot tub, make sure you understand what options are available and what interest rates and fees apply. If zero down is an option how long is the term and what is the interest rate if miss a payment. Also, make sure to ask if you can pay it off early without a penalty fee. There are many loan companies that will charge for early payoffs.

Who do you contact for support? Fair vendors may not be around to provide support or maintenance for your hot tub after the sale. When you buy from a local dealer, you can receive support and maintenance from knowledgeable employees. 

What is the reputation of the manufacturer and dealer? Researching the reputation of both the manufacturer and dealer can help you determine whether they are trustworthy and reliable. Don’t forget, you can always go online and check their customer reviews.

How long have you been selling at fair sales? Fair vendors may not have a long-term investment in your community. Local dealers, on the other hand, have a vested interest in providing quality products and services to their customers. 

7 Reasons to Shop Local & Not At The Fair