The water itself
NMB Water, which serves most of Aventura, softens its water at the Norwood plant and blends in reverse osmosis-treated Floridan Aquifer water. That often means the test points to chloramine taste and odor, not hardness, so a softener may not belong on your quote at all. Getting that right before buying is the single biggest way to avoid paying for equipment you do not need.
Condo vs. house: different jobs
| Home | Typical scope | What can affect the quote |
|---|---|---|
| High-rise condo | Under-sink alkaline RO | Countertop material, cabinet space, building contractor rules, insurance certificates, elevator scheduling, parking and access time |
| Townhome | Whole-home filtration, often plus RO | Main line location, association rules on exterior equipment, space for a bypass |
| Single-family house | Whole-home plus RO, softener only if the test shows it | Pipe material and condition, outdoor placement, number of bathrooms |
| Business or building | Commercial filtration or softening | Daily water volume, equipment being protected, downtime allowed for installation |
Other line items to look for
- Exact equipment model and number of stages.
- Labor, including any plumbing or electrical work.
- Faucet installation and countertop drilling.
- Ice-maker connection if you want one.
- Removal of an old system left by a previous owner.
- First set of replacement filters, and when they are due.
- Warranty terms in writing.
Use the quote comparison guide to line up two offers.
Why the same building can get different quotes
Neighbors in the same Aventura tower sometimes compare notes and find their quotes look nothing alike. Usually the difference is in what was proposed, not the price of identical work. One company may suggest a whole-unit system that the building would never allow; another may include a softener without measuring hardness. A useful quote is tied to a test result and to what your building actually permits. Ask each company which test numbers the recommendation is based on, whether the proposal fits your association's rules, and what exactly the installation includes. If an item does not connect to a measured problem, ask why it is there.
Ownership costs
Ask how often filters and membranes are replaced, what each replacement involves, and whether service visits are included. Seasonal residents should ask what happens if the system sits unused for months. The annual ownership guide covers the questions to ask.
Financing
Living Water offers financing through its financing partners. You apply with a credit application, and a co-applicant can apply with you. Terms come from the partner. To start with the free test, call, text or WhatsApp (305) 793-5974.
Updated 2026-10-17 · Living Waters · Jorge Canela, Water Quality Specialist