Newbie to Hot Tubs - Is this one Ok? Sundance McKinley

[roundbox52]

Brand new to hot tubs, I don't want to drop $10k+ on a tub, looking for something the kids can hop in with their friends and my wife and I as well. Ideally looking at few grand for the hot tub, wiring and a gravel pad.

I found a 2017 Sundance Mckinley 680 series nearby for $3,000 (down from $3,500). I'm hoping to look at it tomorrow. Here is the listing:

FOR SALE: 2017 Sundance Spa McKinley 680 Series. The spa is in very good condition. It has been winterized professionally annually. I am the original owner. It features 44 jets, air controls, massage selectors, LED lights, and a waterfall feature. All in working order. Cover is equipped with safety Lock Bar feature. Dimensions: 89.5” x 89.5” x 39.5”Please note: In lieu of replacing a crack in the ClearRay seal, the suggestion was to bypass it as they felt the feature didn’t do anything noticeably extra to the water chemistry. The ClearRay Water Purification System was professionally bypassed in 2024, as recommended by company. **This seal can still be replaced and the bypass reversed if buyer chooses after purchase.**Buyer is responsible for transporting hot tub. Please reach out with any questions. Thanks!

How do I go about looking at a hot tub? Would it be odd to take a screwdriver and pull the access panel off to look inside? I'm concerned with the bottom wood of the unit being rotted since it is the lower end series of hot tub.
What should I be looking for during my inspection?
The cover is original but they say it is in great shape, do you agree based on the pictures? Should I ask for a reduction in price because covers only last so long and I may need to replace it soon?
Is ClearRay really not needed? I'm thinking of using bromine rather than chlorine - is there any ill effect on the skin when using bromine?
Other than hiring a mover for $400-$500, how would you go about moving this to my place?
Any insight into the brand, series and what I'm getting myself into would be appreciated!

Many thanks in advance!

 

[RDspaguy]

How do I go about looking at a hot tub?

With it full and running, at 100 degrees f.

Would it be odd to take a screwdriver and pull the access panel off to look inside?

Is it odd to pop the hood when looking at a used car?
Most people won't, as they don't know what they are looking at anyway. But they should.

I'm concerned with the bottom wood of the unit being rotted

It may be, and if so I'd recommend replacing it, but a sundance is basically a foam block with a hot tub stuck in it. The frame provides little structural support and is mainly a place to screw on the skirting.

What should I be looking for during my inspection?

Water around the tub and in the equipment area. Remove all sides and check for wet foam. If found, run away quickly.
Visible rust/corrosion on equipment/electronics. Expect repairs soon.
Signs of critters living in it. Check foam for nests. If found and wet, run away quickly.
Check rubber gaskets (handrails, jet flange, filter fitting, etc) for deterioration (gooey, cracked, missing). If found, run away quickly.
Check shell for bubbles/spiderweb cracks (highly unlikely in a Sundance). Visual blemishes are often not worth fixing but don't usually leak.

Should I ask for a reduction in price because covers only last so long and I may need to replace it soon?

Covers are like tires on a car. If I buy a cover I raise my price to pay for it, but usually won't make the investment pre-sale if it has one in any kind of useable shape. Better if they order it themselves so the warranty is in their name. That's you in this case. I think the price is already low, even needing a $500 cover.

ClearRay really not needed?

It's an option I would recommend if using chlorine (which I recommend) and a low-flow circulation pump.

I'm thinking of using bromine rather than chlorine

Why?

is there any ill effect on the skin when using bromine?

It makes me itch. But not really for most, and many use it with no problems. However I still recommend chlorine.

Other than hiring a mover for $400-$500, how would you go about moving this to my place?

If you have no experience the pro will likely cost less than the damage you'll do to it. If you decide to do it yourself there are many videos on youtube I'm sure.

Any insight into the brand, series and what I'm getting myself into would be appreciated!

Sundance is in my top 3 for best-built spas, and a personal favorite. Not very familiar with the 680, but Sundance does everything proprietary and expensive.
With any luck, you'll be getting yourself into a hot tub.

 

[KidneyPool]

Hot tubs that stay dry for long periods time being sold are at risk for leaks after.