New pool owner.... need advice on agp pump

Speck pumps have been around a long time. They are well made, but not very "main stream" so parts may be a problem when things break. They always break eventually, that's why I have a job.
Though they are a little more expensive, I would stick with Hayward or Pentair. Parts for these pumps will be around for a long time and there will be people who know how to work on them. Hayward MaxFlo VSP or Pentair SuperFlo VSP are both available as 120 or 240 volt models. Unlike the Hayward Xtreme pump, these are true in-ground pumps that are more rugged than a pump designed for above ground use and much more energy efficient. The filter seems to be good, though I have no experience with it. Most name-brand cartridge filters are good. 150 square feet is the smallest size I would put on that pool and they are available separately. You will have about 16,000 gallons of water to deal with and a good pump is the best way to start.
It will be more work to buy the parts "ala carte" and put them together, but you will be happier in the long run. Make sure to wire in a GFCI for the pump and purchase a ready-made pad, or pour a concrete one to put the equipment on. Since these pumps have built in controls, you wouldn't have to purchase a separate timer.

I'm in the same situation and came across your post. Like you I was looking at the E71-II VSP. One of my local pool stores has it for $589, and my state offers a $500 rebate for it. It seems almost too good to be true, but if all of the stars align tomorrow I'll probably pick one up.