Swan Pools

Dear Domie,
To the most personable, commited and brillant designer in the pool industry.
As I have read reviews of others, I cant help but totally become more excieted for our project to get started. For those of you who will read this, we dont even have a pool yet. Domie was the the best enspiration to our dream pool that we have been missing for 20 years. It was the biggest step in my wife and my lifes to be so committed to Swan Pools. We too started with other contractors and then came Domie. He walked out in our backyard and took into his compassionat mind the vision of what we wanted. Then the magic just started to flow. We have spent several time in the design room at Swan Pools Office. We have meet most all of the staffing in the office. And the expericance is still yet to come. We are told that we will be breaking ground soon and thanks to Swan Pools, Dreams will come true. We are looking forward to working with James the PM and having the same expectations to finish the 5 star expeirinace when the project is completed. I have no dought in my mind that with Jame at the wheel and Domie’s fuel for excelance the project will be a huge success.
Domie and Swan Pools thank you for the expeirinace so far.
Domie the cookies were great too.
Stay Tuned !!!

By the time that my husband and I met with Domie, we had already interviewed 3 contractors, and we were seriously considering selling our house and purchasing one with a pool. As property managers, we have dealt with dozens of contractors over the years, and we cringed as each pool contractor uttered the terms «unforeseen circumstances», «possible additional costs», etc. We were jaded by the time that we opened our front door to Domie. We were skeptical of his positive energy and enthusiasm. When Domie asked if we had 2 hours of time to discuss our project, we wondered why it would take so long to just show us pictures of previous projects like all the other contractors had done.
But, Domie was different. He spent time just chatting, and asking what we wanted as a family with regard to our backyard project. For example, did we want a pool for exercise, play or both? After an hour, Domie felt like a family member. Once he knew what we liked in terms of form and function, we walked around the backyard and took measurements. We wanted a pool, spa, waterfall, slide, grotto, patio, and cook area. Then, Domie sat down and started drawing up a design. Within a half hour, he brought our possible backyard project to life! The other contractors wanted us to pay a fee for this!
When we next met, Domie had specific plans drawn up, and a rough estimate of cost. Other bids came in slightly lower, but Domie guaranteed that there would be no «unforeseen circumstances costs» with Swan Pools. Domie helped us decide on the details of the project, and we had a firm bid within an hour. We never felt any sales pressure; and, after meeting the owners, we felt like we were dealing with a reputable family business. We signed a contract with Swan pools, and had approval of our HOA within a few days.
Swan pools took care of all dealings with the city, and after a few adjustments to plans due to upslope conditions, excavation began a month later. Now the clock had started on the estimated time for completion of the project. Sure enough, the excavators had difficulty, and we waited for the «unforeseen costs», BUT Swan Pools honored their promise, and WE DID NOT PAY A PENNY MORE.
Each stage of the pool building process moved swiftly forward. Domie and James (the project manager) answered our calls within a few hours, if not immediately. Domie was an advocate for making our dream a reality, he conveyed that well to the rest of the Swan Pools team, and James executed the project with great professionalism.
We had a few difficulties along the way. Our neighbor had a leak in their pool, and water was seeping into our yard at a rate enough to draw the attention of the inspectors. Cecil, one of the owners, went to our neighbor to detect a leak. His experience, demeanor and professionalism averted any uncomfortable conversations with our neighbor.
Our patio cover was our next major obstacle. Due to its length, the city wanted to have a pilaster in the middle of our patio. After 5 weeks, the city, and an additional engineer hired by Swan Pools, agreed on a plan. We were back to construction, but abysmally behind schedule. However, we are so pleased that Swan Pools fought for the original design. Yet again, no additional cost to us :-)
To our pleasant surprise, Swan Pools has not abandoned us after we made final payment. We have had 3 minor issues in the 3 months since the completion of our project, and James responded and resolved all issues.
Our dream project is a reality that far surpasses our expectations. Our backyard oasis rivals many of the outdoor pavilions and water areas that we have seen at 5 star resorts. Although the process was long and painful, Swan Pools delivers on their promise, and they truly stand by their craftsmanship. We highly recommend Swan Pools!

Swan did a wonderful job with our pool and spa. They’ve been in business many years and you can see why.
What is most impressive is that they stand behind their product. For example, we started having water pressure issues with the jets in the spa. After trial and error, many conversations, and many visits from Swan reps the problem was finally solved.
I’ve never « Unilocaled» before nor have I ever been on the website. I was surprised to see some of the previous (recent) poor reviews, we had a fantastic experience thru the whole process. Jim was our initial point of contact and James was the project manager. Both were equally impressive insofar as product knowledge and were always punctual.
My wife and I had in mind an exact design/​style and they made it come to life. Combine that with their willingness to stand behind their product give them an A+ from me.

We «interviewed» several pool companies before choosing Swan Pools, as we felt Swan offered the best pool design ideas, price and plan for building our pool. As our pool has just been completed, we can say that the look of the pool turned out even better than the artist’s rendering (which itself was great). The workers and office personnel were all great and very attentive to our needs and questions. We were also very pleased that only changes in price was due to our wanting to «upgrade» a few small items, so we can say that the price originally quoted and what we ended up with were right on track. As a pool is a major investment, we can say without any hesitate that Swan Pools was the right decision. Great pool, super good looks and an addition to our backyard that we are very proud of and look forward to using for many years to come.

I had the absolute worst experience with this company! Everything they promised sounded good, but when it came to the execution of the project, I never saw the salesman again! All of the crews were sub-​contractors, no employees were from swan! I didn’t want the pool light installed where I could see it from my window, but they didn’t want to move it, so they promised I wouldn’t be able to see it from the window. WRONG!!! I had the «cool» fountains installed, they never worked right. The control box they installed stood above the surface level, and was just a hideous black plastic utility box with a green lid! They talked me into the 3m granule surface, said it would be smooth. It looked pretty, but I honestly don’t think the crew that installed it knew what they were doing. The surface was rough, and every time we went in the spa we got a rash! They send two guys out to fix the problem, drained the pool, acid washed the surface, AND MADE IT WORSE!!! Then they said I needed to call the manufacturer to solve the problem! In addition, they talked me into the salt water system, which NEVER worked properly! They could never get the cell to work properly. After a year, they said it was out of warranty. Upon completion of the installation, one of their technicians was supposed to come by and go through the equipment, how it functions, and the proper use of the equipment and controls. The day we were supposed to do this, I found the manuals for all of the equipment hanging on the pool equipment. When I called them and reminded them that they were supposed to be there to talk me through the process, he simply said, «the manuals are very easy to understand.» Really? I just spent $ 90,000 and this is the type of professionalism (really the lack there of) I receive? After feeling I had purchased a «lemon» I decided I would call the owner, who happens to be the license holder and didn’t actually run the day to day, and his response was, «well let me talk to Harry and hear his side of the story.» Which would have been fine, but the tone was that of, «yeah, whatever, I’m just listening to you complain. I’m not really going to do anything about it.» I would NEVER, EVER use this company, or suggest this company to ANYONE! An absolutely horrible experience.

Charlie built a beautiful pool for us just over a year ago. He has consistently been available to us to answer questions. The permit process was incredibly complicated but he got it done and our pool was built without a hitch. He uses trustworthy and reliable builders and there were no surprise costs. In general, construction projects are difficult, expensive, and stressful, but the pool turned out to be the least difficult out of all the other jobs we did.

Choosing Swan Pools is a smart move. We are still in the beginning stages of deciding on a perfect backyard pool and spa plan. Besides the fact that they have been building pools for several decades, we are so pleased with our designer, Domie. His professionalism is a breath of fresh air. With his extensive design experience, he offers great vision, patience and respect for client’s budget. Be sure to ask for Domie!

Swan Pools did a fantastic job with our swimming pool! The entire staff, from the design process with Mr. Eldridge through the completion of the project, were extremely professional and courteous. The experience was so good, in fact, that we contracted Mr. Fraser in their landscape department to landscape the remainder of our property. He did a fabulous job as well. I have recommended Swan Pools and Landscaping to others in our neighborhood and wouldn’t hesitate to do so in the future.

The first time I interviewed DQ, the pool designer, I was impressed. The entire process was delightful, actually. From the demo to the finished product, the professionalism was unsurpassed by all members of the Swan Pools team. All the workers were polite, neat, always on time, and the jobsite was left clean each and every day. If I had any questions, James the supervisor or Debbie, the office manager answered them almost immediately. I was always kept informed as to the next step, and the job was done exactly in the timeframe promised. I really can’t recommend this company high enough. I’ve spoken to a lot of neighbors who have had pools installed, and none of them enjoyed the wonderful experience that I did with Swan Pools.

Very upset about this company.
After I scheduled an appointment I received a confirmation email confirming the appointment. I even called the office that morning to let them know that i might be running a few minutes late due to traffic… she said no problem she’ll let the designer know … and then had me drive over 1 h through traffic to meet with the «designer».
He never showed up. I called the office again, then they told me he accidentally was booked twice. I told them that i had took off work and I had a long drive to get here, if they could just send someone else or the designer could come afterwords. But she said it’s not possible.
I doubt, a company that is not able to properly schedule appointments nor appreciates the time of a potential client, sure isn’t capable to deliver in other areas of their business.

This spring is the 10 year anniversary of Swan Pools completing our pool. For once in my life I have had no buyers remorse. From the sales to the construction, all was performed in a very professional manner. We were always kept informed of the construction scheduling, even through an El Nino winter.
Needless to say the end product has been terrific.

Swan Pools did a beautiful job of creating the outdoor paradise we always wanted. Though it took some time to get permits and HOA approvals, once the permits were approved, they started within days, and completed the project right on schedule. Their customer service has always been top notch, the construction crews were always courteous, spoke English and cleaned up every day. Our sales designer was Jim Eldridge. Everything he promised came true. We have referred Jim and Swan to several of my friends and all of them are happy about their experience. I would use them again in a heartbeat.

Swan Pools built my pool about 15 years ago. We have always gotten compliments from friends and other visitors on the design and quality. When it came time for a remodel, we called Swan. The owner, Cecil Frazer even came out to our home himself to offer his advice. Now we have a new Pebble surface, Energy efficient Heater and Filter Pump. The pool has never looked or operated better. I have to wonder how many other swimming pool contractors managed to survive this last economically challenging environment? My guess would be, not many. It says a lot to me about this company and the people who run it. Hats off to Swan Pools for a job well done.

I purchased a custom home and I knew I was going to put in a pool, but I wanted to make sure it was going to be beautiful and the utmost quality. I did my research and found Swan Pools to be one of if not the best pool builder in the area. I met with their designer, Domie Quintana and he s pent time with me making sure that the design of my pool, spa and features were top notch. I could tell that he genuinely cared and I really felt he understood what was important to me and that the outdoor living space was commensurate with the property as it existed. Domie listened to my ideas and helped me design something that is awesome for me and my family long term. I am grateful, because when I was looking for a company to work with, I learned of so many projects out there that never got completed, or the people or other companies that promised the world and didn’t deliver. I have heard the horror stories of runaway costs and the frustrations that accompany all of that.
I do not have a typical property and therefore, the working conditions were not the easiest yet at the end of the day, I am more than impressed. I felt it was important to share my experience because I know that the investment and process can be overwhelming and nerve racking for anyone and it’s a big decision. I have no problem referring Swan Pools and especially Domie. His talents became my dream yard and it’s gorgeous!
Joseph Khein

Domie Marcus of Swan pools is AMAZING!!! He has so many wonderful ideas and helped me immeasurably since I never built a pool before. He is a artist and a visionary. He even helped me with my landscaping. I couldn’t have done this without his guidance. Everyone is impressed by my pool and backyard. Thank you Domie and Swan pools!!!

Swan Pools did an amazing job designing and building our pool and back yard. Everything Jim Eldridge said was truthful and accurate. It was a fairly complex project because we live on a hill in San Juan Capistrano. Jim and his team did an outstanding job of integrating 4 existing Canary island date palms into the project. They finished on time with no cost over runs while achieving the highest level of workmanship and customer service. I highly recommend Swan Pools and Jim Eldridge to anyone looking to build a pool.

Danger !!! Stay away from these guys.
To start, their sales guy Jim is a liar
He gave us brochures of products we never received. I asked if we were getting a variable speed pump that saves enegry, he said yes (lie– we got a two speed pump — that wastes energy– I would have paid extra for better pump)
He told us to put equipment near spa because you would n’t hear the pump and heater because «the new ones are so quiet» (lie — he just recommend that to save money on the piping and labor),
He showed us these nice stainless steel jets for our spa (lie– we have cheap plastic ones that keep breaking and poping out)
He was late to every meeting
When pool was being built I would ask one their subcontacts (another lie — Jim says they don’t sub out any of their work) about something that didn’t seem right, then Swans project manager would come over and say «well it isn’t in the contract»
You really have to read the contract throughly because they will say one thing and then right something else in contract
As far as the pool went…
They did not dig it deep enough
The decking turned pink with grey polk dots — I had to fight with them for 2 ½ months to fix/​paint over deck with epoxy
The pool project started in May finished early October
Follow up service is terrible — When thing break they never return messages and hang up on you when you point out their mistakes

So, another month has passed and things are moving along smoothly. My attitude towards Swan has improved. Each and every crew they’ve sent over has been awesome. James who oversees everything is equally impressive.
I will say, after Shotcrete is done, be prepared to spend a lot of time with your future pool because you’ll be watering it 3 or 4 times a day for about 30 minutes each time. This process will last at least 2 weeks. It does give you a lot of time to daydream about the finished product though.
Another word of advice, just pick your tiles our before your contract is signed. There will be a lot talk about «groups» which will mean nothing to you. We of course liked all the tiles that were just above our approved «groups». This was of course was an upcharge as well. Save yourself the struggle of trying to settle on tiles that you may not love and figure it out before.
All in all though, I’d say, «Yay! I’m a fan»
I hope it only gets better.

Swan built us a beautiful pool and it was on time and built
two years ago. One way to judge a pool company is do they come back if you have problems in the future. Well I called Friday with a broken lid on my pump and it was fixed Tue. That is great service and the staff Debbie and Ashley do a wonderful job. No company is perfect and building a pool takes a lot of patience but fixing a problem is the best way to judge a company so we are pleased to give them a recommendation.

Well I am glad to report that our pool FINALLY was completed– at the 17 week mark. Only 9 weeks overdue!!! The comical antics, lack of communication and lack of customer service continued the entire time and was quite a painful process. I even filed a complaint with the Better Business Bureau and got a tenuous response that lacked any culpability for the ongoing issues. We failed the final inspection before water could go in the pool! There were several issues that the inspector noted that they should have known better but were clearly trying to get away with. And the crowning glory was the pool equipment location made the fence not up to code! Swan couldn’t charge me for that one!!! It was a debacle from start to finish and I couldn’t be happier it is over with. The pool does look nice and we’re enjoying it but it wasn’t worth 17 weeks of agony.
By the way Swan averages a C on Angie’s List and there are quite a few D and F ratings. The only nice thing I have to say about Swan Pools is that Debbie and Ashley are helpful.