Recently, a homeowner told us our proposal was “about $100,000 higher” than another builder’s.

We completely understood the concern so we asked to review their quote together, line by line.

Once we compared everything apples to apples, the picture changed.

The other proposal wasn’t quoting the same project at all. Key engineering steps, finishes, and structural components were missing. When all of those elements were added back in, their “lower” bid actually came in higher than ours and still didn’t include several of the quality details we consider standard.

What Was Missing

Below are a few examples of items that weren’t included in the other proposal but are essential for a project like this:

• Structural Footers & Turndowns – necessary on this site’s 9″–15″ slope to prevent future deck failure.
• Decking, Drainage & Finishes – all clearly defined in our proposal, not left as allowances which turn into change orders.
• Compaction Test & Soils Report – critical near water or grade changes to ensure long-term stability. Without these, you risk shifting decks, cracked shells, and major repair costs.
• Additional Filtration – required for pools over 600 SF to maintain balanced water quality.
• Overflow Perimeter Spa – a signature architectural feature in the design. The other bid simply listed “spa” without the overflow or weir wall system that defines the look and experience.
• Heater & Chiller Specifications – our plan included both, fully detailed; theirs simply said “heater.”
• Lighting & Spa Jets – full counts, placements, and stacked-jet layouts for comfort and symmetry.
• Mosaic Tile & Veneer Finishes – premium materials specified up front, not generic placeholders that turn into change orders.

Once those items were properly accounted for, the cost alignment told a very different story.

Our Approach

At Southern Pool Designs, we believe clarity is the foundation of craftsmanship.

Our proposals are engineered, detailed, and transparent so you know exactly what you’re receiving and why it matters.

Every element, from soils testing to tile selection, is intentionally specified to deliver a pool that performs as beautifully as it looks.

The Takeaway

This real-life example highlights a simple truth: numbers only tell part of the story.

The real value lies in what’s behind those numbers; in the engineering, materials, and precision that ensure your pool stands the test of time.

We don’t aim to be the lowest bid.

We aim to be the most complete, the most thoughtful, and the most enduring choice you can make for your home.