However I’ll say that knowing it’s adjustable has a bit of a mental drain.

That dead equity for some reason is mentally killing me..  

Get friend to friend mentality out of your head.

Poor will add cost but guests used it lots during summer.1 of 7 group will pee in pool(mentally disabled?

There are two parts to your question . . . . licensed vs. unlicensed and  permits vs. no permitsWe would never use a contractor that is not licensed and insured . . . too much sue-mentality and having someone insured is a requirement anymore.On the other hand we have had licensed, insured contractors quote us two prices  . . . one getting permits and one without due to the hurdles that come with permits. 

I feel like we’ve exhausted our options but hoping for a holy grail so thought I’d ask here!

I can't predict a recession or correction, but this is EXACTLY the mentality that leads to them. 

I market to ex-cons and mentally ill persons that have government subsidies.

Of those you see sitting on a porch who appear to be work capable may have mental issues.

Got all kinds of gadgets, radio, CD player, foot massage, body jets, rain showers, ozone sterilization, steam, exhaust fan, telephone etc...a new one sells for $3000.