Sorry, I've been distracted.

+ Yes, that setup will work, though you may want a better pole and net later.
+ Turn off the salt water unit; don't add salt. AG pools are NOT compatible with the more corrosive salt water.

I'd do any site prep you can now, but don't turn the site into a muddy winter mess. Then, wait till spring. There are several reasons.
1. Warranty on the pools is poor, and slow. You need to get the pool up QUICK, and use it QUICK, so you can return the whole thing to the seller if necessary. Buy from Walmart, if available. (But do not get their preferred in-house brand; stick to Intex).
2. Pools require maintenance over the winter. That's a no-fun, low-motivation time to learn.

Good luck!