Nicole,
I think what I would do is settle on a particular manufacturer and model number then shop on the web to see what kind of price range you get. That would give you an idea if the poolstore is a ripoff. If the bottom line difference is only a few percent then I would support someone local. Someone I could put my hands around their neck if something isn't right. I don't really know if one manufacturer is better than another but always remember you usually, not always, get what you pay for. As for web orders, most times I'll do the shopping on the web but the final order is through a human. That way no surprises like 'sorry...backordered' etc. Hope this helps.
Al