SHAMEFUL AND UNETHICAL .... We contacted Bernardo Amenábar of Hot Tub Repair & Service, Inc. in June 2018. Explained that we were working with a Whirlpool Tub that was leaking in a rental located Germantown, MD. Advised that pump was no longer manufactured and wanted to resolve leaks from jets to use as a Soaker Tub Only. Since unit was installed in 1995, we made it clear that we did not want to invest a sizeable amount of money in a unit of that age. Wanted to confirm whether what we were interested in doing was even possible. Assured us that it was 100% possible. Fully understood our concerns and limitations. Spoke of his experience. Impressive…. Now, the beginning of the NIGHTMARE. He wanted digital pictures since the unit was located outside of his normal service area. We sent at 35, if not more with specs. Afterwards, we called and called. Nonresponsive. Finally reached him 6 weeks later. Stated that he was out of the country and planning another trip shortly. But would be willing to address upon his return. We agreed. Promised to email upon return. Never did. Emailed again in September. This time, he responded. Stated that he had been in contact with our Realtor to gain access. Tentative appointment with tenant was made on October 11th. NO OTHER CONTRACTORS IN GERMANTOWN, MD EXPERIENCED WITH REPAIRING THESE TYPES OF WHIRLPOOL TUBS. THUS, THE REASON FOR OUR PATIENCE. Sent email to Amenabar on October 6th, advising that we were leaving for Tel Aviv. Restated our concerns that the repairs could be completed October 11th and a 2nd visit would not be required since we were paying a premium cost for travel time. Lastly, asked him to do an extensive test prior to leaving premises to ensure that we are not facing any water leakage whatsoever if the unit is left on. Told him property was in the name of a “Trust.” Instructed the Administrator to issue payment immediately upon receipt of invoice and forgo check run. He agreed… Our Realtor, based in VA, confirmed that Amenabar called him and said he would be at the rental property at 11:00 AM. Did not arrive as scheduled. The Realtor called. Stated he was running late. Had not left Virginia. MY Realtor could not wait an additional two hours for his arrival. Told Realtor that a credit card payment was needed in advance after agreeing to payment by check. My Realtor was NOT aware of this commitment, BUT AMENABAR WAS, and in good faith gave him a credit card. According to tenant, he arrived and was there for less than 45 minutes. ABSOLUTELY, NO WORK WAS DONE. Charged credit card $322.40 - $310 plus credit card service charge. THE AUDACITY OF SOME TO OUTRIGHT CON PEOPLE. Proceeded to contact Trust Administrator via email on October 12th – Attached is invoice. Detailed estimate will follow. Several days past – NOTHING RECEIVED. On October 20th, the Administrator sent an email to him asking whether repair had been scheduled since NO WORK was done on October 11th when payment was rendered. AGAIN, OUT OF THE COUNTRY. THIS TIME - Hot Tub Repair & Service will be closed until October 31st. We'll be at the Expo INTERBAD, Stuttgart, Germany. Emails may not be returned until Thursday, November 1st. FINALLY ON NOVEMBER 3RD, RECEIVED THE FOLLOWING: This job requires parts to be special ordered*, and the removal of the tub. To special order these parts, they must be paid in full in advance. Please make your check payable to Hot Tub Repair & Service for $1,320.45 To authorize this job, please sign, print and date a copy of the ESTIMATE/INVOICE # 40327, and forward it to us together with your payment. The estimated labor of $1,430**, is due upon completion. Best regards, Bernardo J. Amenábar F. Hot Tub Repair & Service Inc. P.O. Box 10316 Burke, VA 22009 703-323-4482 [*** Link removed ***] As you recall, this saga started in June discussing a 24 YEAR OLD WHIRLPOOL TUB WHICH WE MADE CLEAR THAT WE DID NOT WANT TO INVEST A SIZEABLE AMOUNT OF MONEY IN DUE TO AGE. And for that - $3072.85. YOU DECIDE….. BEWARE – WE LOST MORE THAN $300. WE WERE SUCKERS. HE KNEW WE HAD FEW OPTIONS AND FULLY TOOK ADVANTAGE OF THE SITUATION. IF OTHERS ARE RIPPED OFF THIS WAY, I NOW UNDERSTAND HOW HE FUNDS HIS INTERNATIONAL TRIPS TO EUROPE. PATHETIC…. Hopefully this review will save you from being victimized as well.