Quote Originally Posted by Simmons99
Before you sign a contract - check out the construction forum and cons forum to make sure you have your bases covered! Good luck!

I've been reading over there and I have to say, it's not very reasuring. It seems like people can have drastically different experiences with the same builder so past experience may not be a good indication of future performance.

We have signed a contract, although we are still in our option period to back out, and I do feel comfortable with our builder. We started our research back in March and met with four different builders. We were close to going with Blue Haven but despite a reasonable package price, I just didn't feel comforatable with the salesman - could easily be selling used cars if you know what I mean. I didn't need a slick sales pitch, I needed honest advice and didn't feel like that was what I was getting. We're spending over 30k on this project, and I just have to trust my gut. After doing some extended research online, I have serious reservations about that compnay anyway.

So, we picked a PB with a very good reputation in the area and who built a pool for some friends of ours a little over a year ago. They have been very happy with their pool during that time and are going to be going back to the PB to install a swcg for them. We are going to take their lead and start with one.

It's one thing to get referals and talk to strangers, but I always feel more comfortable getting feedback from people I actually know and who know me and and what I expect for my money. Likewise, I'm careful about products or companies I recommend to friends because I know that they are putting their trust in my opinion.

Anyway, that's really all we can do. Now I just hope that our instincts are right and we chose well. The few questions I've had so far have been quickly answered by e-mail and the designer has been quick to answer his cell phone. Hopefully this is an indication of how things will be once they get their first payment and work begins. Either way, I'll be sure to check in often with updates and, no doubt... more questions.