4 years ago
Building a new pool, and ultimately a new backyard...
Building a new pool, and ultimately a new backyard was a big decision for my wife and I, as it is for everyone given the investment and the journey you embark on with the company you choose. We made the right decision. Riverbend Sandler has been in the game for quite a while and has made a reputation for themselves as being a complete pool company with outstanding service, and I will tell you that they wholeheartedly delivered. I read all of the google reviews before we started, including the not-so-desirable ones, but what reassured me with Riverbend, even though they may be a bit pricier than most, was the attention to detail and communication from day one. Our designer, Hank, was great to work with and would make time for us, no matter how much we wanted to noodle plans, make changes, etc. He also listened well and gave us honest and upfront opinions about what we would realistically use/want given our lifestyle and what we wanted to get out of our backyard. We had the unique situation of digging up an old vinyl liner pool that was just too far gone to repair. We also opted for an outdoor kitchen by Riverbend as well. The finished product is exactly what we wanted and more, in large part to the professionalism, attention to detail, and communication of Cristian Guzman. I've worked with a ton of contractors and project managers on our older house and I would trust Cristian with any project, even outside of a pool. He was the absolute best to work with because he genuinely cares and follows through with every commitment. I saw him on Saturdays, in the mornings, and in the evenings, throughout the entire project checking on progress and giving me updates. Honestly the best service I have received in years. They said they'd be done in 12 weeks -- we broke ground on 8/28, and the final pool inspection was complete on 11/28. This was with construction happening during the great October floods of 2018. Just super impressive. Cristian is still checking in on us every so often to make sure we are happy. He is really great at what he does and loves it, and you can tell. All in, if you're reading this review, just like I did before starting the process, do yourself a favor and don't skimp on an investment of this magnitude. Do it right the first time. Go with a company that has been doing this for years, that has a well-oiled infrastructure, that has the majority of their craftsman in-house, that cares about your satisfaction and wants to make things right when you're not 100% happy. Riverbend is the real deal -- Hank is super talented and Cristian is the absolute man. And, remember, it's a construction process -- things will pop up and things may suck for a while, but be involved and be kind, and then get ready to be in awe when the finished product is outside your back door. Last thing, I'm not getting a kick-back or anything. RB didn't prod me to do this for a % off or a gift card or free maintenance or anything...honestly, it was that great of an experience for me. Anyone can feel free to reach out to me directly to discuss more if you're on the fence.