Direct Buy??

[mma]

Didn't know where else to post this, but has anyone had any experience with this company? I saw an infomercial and checked out their website. They have lots of stuff for your home like furniture, appliances, bathroom stuff, tiles, kitchen fixtures, etc. Sounds interesting but it feels along the same lines as a timeshare sales "meeting". You can't visit their centre without registering and then reserving a specific time slot to visit their "open house"

[sportsfan99]

Its not cheap to join for some its well worth it if you have extra cash.The new members fee is $2500 but they could be bumped very soon to $3500.

[5hole]

Didn't know where else to post this, but has anyone had any experience with this company? I saw an infomercial and checked out their website. They have lots of stuff for your home like furniture, appliances, bathroom stuff, tiles, kitchen fixtures, etc. Sounds interesting but it feels along the same lines as a timeshare sales "meeting". You can't visit their centre without registering and then reserving a specific time slot to visit their "open house"
Do a search of RFD. The term most commonly used to describe is SCAM!!! Why would they refuse to show you their prices only after you join and fork over the $2500? What are they hiding? They call me about once a year to come in for a presentation. I always accept and never show up.

ESC

[T-Bone]

Scam Alert. There is no way to know the savings upfront.

[TeDoresc]

A friend of mine is a member. The fee for the first years is quite high, but it drops significantly after that. He saved something like $700 on a fridge that cost $2500 at Home Depot.

When you take into account the membership fee, it's not worth it. You can do better with gift cards from At Home (save 20%).

Not only that, but the selection is too limited with Direct Buy, especially if you are looking for anything high-end.

I would stay away.

[djspazz]

Well, I am a Direct Buy member and I can honestly say that if you had joined like 7 years earlier, it was worth it. However, with the absurd entrance fee, it is definitely not worth it. Even if you save money on big ticket items, you'd have to buy a house load of stuff to make your entrance fee back (a big house at that). Having said that, I do buy quite a few things there and do end up saving more than I pay for my yearly fee. The initial purchases I made when I first joined had made up for my entrance fee. So in summary, I do save money. I saved a around $2000 in total with my recent purchases of baby furniture, stroller, decor, bedding etc... I compared the prices with retail outlets of the same manufacturer and Direct Buy was way cheaper.

However, if you do not buy alot, or don't intend to buy a lot of goods, Direct Buy is not for you. Also, you often save a lot of money on big ticket or higher end brands. So if you want to go in and save money on a cheaper item or lower end product, there may be minimal or no savings at all. In conclusion, Direct Buy is not for everyone. In fact, to most, it is a scam. But to some, dependant on what you buy and how much you buy, it's worth it.

[me!]

big thread about this a couple of months ago.

consensus: SCAM

some exceptions though, but not the consensus.

I visit other forums on home improvement websites and the consensus is the same. And this is a home improvement forum - complete with intererior designers, builders, professionals in the industry.

[$AVINGS]

I'm a member as well of Direct Buy or UCC as it is also called. Becoming a member only helps out people in cetain situations. For example when I became a member 4 years ago I had just got married and we were about to move into our newly built house so we had a need to buy alot of furniture, electronics, housewares. etc. So it was well worth the $2700 fee for the first year (and $200/yr for the next 9).

or example:

We wanted a certain bedroom set. We went to about 5 furniture stores and the cheapest price we got was $19,500 for the complete set. We then negotiated it down to about $16,800. When we priced it out at Direct Buy it cost us $11,400 with taxes and delivery included. Plus we only had to wait 3 weeks to get compared to the 8 weeks the furniture store wanted us to wait.
So we saved approx. $5400 plus tax

Mind you the greatest deals are on furniture, followed by home decorations ie, lighting, art etc. Electronics tend to be alot closer to the price you can negotiate at a store and you don't have to wait for it to be shipped.

PS. I am new to redflagdeals and all I have to say is that this site is amazing

[me!]

:arrowu: 19,500$ :eek:

What kind of furniture were you looking at?

[grant]

Why would they refuse to show you their prices only after you join and fork over the $2500? What are they hiding? They call me about once a year to come in for a presentation. I always accept and never show up.

You've never gone so why are you making claims that you have no firsthand knowledge of? Your behaviour indicates you're a jerk.

They showed me their prices, i just had to ask.

Mma, try SEARCHING this topic has been covered AD NASEUM.

[mma]

Mma, try SEARCHING this topic has been covered AD NASEUM.

I tried searching before posting but I got 500 thread results. I guess I'm too lazy to search through them all. I used the key work "direct buy" :confused:
Can anyone post a link if possible?

Thanks

[grant]

search topics only... in the off-topic forum.

[almilh2]

We went to Direct buy to see if it was something we wanted to be involved with. We got there, and after they positioned us on the sofa so they could take our picture, they then moved us over to the sitting area and again positioned us a couple places to take our picture, then had us sit at the table, put their ipod recorder and started to tape our conversation. We were asked how much we wanted to spend and when we said that the first rule in negotiations was never to say how much you wanted to spend the guy got huffy. He told us we needed have quotes, know what we wanted to buy and to make a decision tonight. We did ... we got up and left ... wow high pressure or what ... btw ... as we waited to see someone ... a lady who was a member tried to buy blinds ... she got a bit of a run around and when she finally lost it ... she was told she had to make an appointment ...

[IoannI]

Doesn't seem to be too much of a good deal to me. I've seen there commercials and they are like custom kitchen cabinets at a cheap price. How the hell could they sell you custom kithcen cabinents when they are not a kitchen store that designs and builds there own cabinents.

Anyways I could get a way better deal on a whole lot of things that they sell. Also I don't think that you are saving that much on products they sell since it cost so much to get membership. The only time I think its worth it is if your doing a huge renovation job like gutting your whole house adding an addition and then brining it up to date.

[jetz]

Doesn't seem to be too much of a good deal to me. I've seen there commercials and they are like custom kitchen cabinets at a cheap price. How the hell could they sell you custom kithcen cabinents when they are not a kitchen store that designs and builds there own cabinents.

Anyways I could get a way better deal on a whole lot of things that they sell. Also I don't think that you are saving that much on products they sell since it cost so much to get membership. The only time I think its worth it is if your doing a huge renovation job like gutting your whole house adding an addition and then brining it up to date.

I have a membership. It's not really cost effective unless you are buying a lot (like spending 20k plus). Anything less than that, you should just shop around.....

[branat]

Wow, all of sudden, three active threads on DirectBuy. There must be a new marketing program.:cheesygri

[patrob]

I noticed, don't really feel like posting my good experience at DB in all 3 threads :D :rolleyes:

[jetz]

Wow, all of sudden, three active threads on DirectBuy. There must be a new marketing program.:cheesygri

Yeah we are coming to get you....

"You will be assimilated. " :twisted:

[kleptodathief]

so how much is a yearly membership here? any url links?

[patrob]

so how much is a yearly membership here? any url links?

It been discussed so many times so go & research. What are you planning to buy? It might not be worth it if you don't have a lot to buy? And I mean a lot ;)

[hammer]

can ne1 send me web postings for high end induction cooktops from Db?

[T1974]

I lost a couple of hours of my life by going to their open house, don't waste your time, it's not worth it. Considering I spent about 15K to furnish my entire house, spending 5.6K on DB initial fee alone doesn't seem right.

[ketchudj]

/agree 15k isn't enough. You need to spend 20k to make it worth it.

And also the high pressure stuff sucks- thats why I don't go to timeshare presentations.

I worked (as a consultant) for direct buy and ran actual numbers of a comparison basis. 90% of the people never follow through and use it enough to be valuable. For the other 10% or so, some of them save a heck of a lot. I have no idea what this one guy was doing, but he got about $250,000 worth of stuff and saved probably $75,000.

[motorbikerider]

If you are spending that much at another place there is no reason why you shouldn't be able to negotiate a better deal from them. And you wouldn't be buying Direct Buy's inflated membership fees.

that place is for suckers.

[patrob]

If you are spending that much at another place there is no reason why you shouldn't be able to negotiate a better deal from them. And you wouldn't be buying Direct Buy's inflated membership fees.

that place is for suckers.

Great 1st post :rolleyes: You signed up just to say that :| http://www.clicksmilies.com/s1106/sprachlos/speechless-smiley-034.gif

[BartBandy]

It's a commonly-held opinion. The DB tv ads are hilarious - comparing the DB prices to MSRP prices that nobody ever pays. The whole thing just reeks of scam.

[LarryLat]

The following are true facts, aren't they?

1. You can't return whatever you buy from DirectBuy. So you better be 100% sure it is exactly what you need. Always.

2. The warranty is directly with manufacturer. You can't just come in do a direct exchange at DirectBuy.

3. DirectBuy does not and can not guarantee that an item presented in their catalogue can be ordered. Sometimes manufacturer discontinues the item while it is still listed with DirectBuy.

[OldFortYork]

If you're lazy and don't like to search for deals/haggle maybe DirectBuy is for you.

Otherwise there are other avenues to essentially getting the same thing done for the same price or even less.

[ikbradley]

I love Direct Buy. High pressure sales and factually accurate advertising. Fantastic (everything 50%... MSRP). I have a number of really great things that Direct Buy does:

1. Herd people into groups and assign a representative to closely monitor the tour (self-guided be damned - we are sheep);

2. Utter the unholy threat of excommunication from this santuary of value if you don't sign up immediately;

3. Never advertise its ever changing membership fee based on the whims of a truly honest franchise owner (because who needs certainty); and

4. Don't bother the recruits with disclosure of its former corporate history.

The only incentive it needs to add is a referral payment for every educated recruit that a current member signs up, and then provide another payment to a current member if the first educated recruit, manages to recruit another. I think a guy named Ponzi invented it.

At the end of the day, I really don't know how the Competition Bureau has neglected to look into this scheme.

[patrob]

It's a commonly-held opinion. The DB tv ads are hilarious - comparing the DB prices to MSRP prices that nobody ever pays. The whole thing just reeks of scam.

Their infomercials might be a bit off IMO but everything I have bought so far at DB has been lower than retail. I always do my research if I am getting the lowest price (being an RFD member has taught me to do so :D ) There is no scam with DB.

The following are true facts, aren't they?

1. You can't return whatever you buy from DirectBuy. So you better be 100% sure it is exactly what you need. Always. That's correct. But you can easily see all the products at other stores before you order from DB.

2. The warranty is directly with manufacturer. You can't just come in do a direct exchange at DirectBuy. Actually certain items you can bring back to DB (as long as they authorize you to do so) & they just re-order a new product if defective.

3. DirectBuy does not and can not guarantee that an item presented in their catalogue can be ordered. Sometimes manufacturer discontinues the item while it is still listed with DirectBuy. If the item is discontinued they will let you know. So far everything I ordered has come just as I expected.

If you're lazy and don't like to search for deals/haggle maybe DirectBuy is for you.

Otherwise there are other avenues to essentially getting the same thing done for the same price or even less.

Who are you calling lazy :| With DB there is no need for haggling, it's a different way of buying things, simple. It's not for everybody but it does work & saved me lots of money ;)

[OldFortYork]

With DB there is no need for haggling

If you read my post that's exactly what I mean.

I have a friend who has an account with DB, and almost everything that she has bought I ended up being quoted a better price.

Plus, she has to wait eons to get certain items.

[BartBandy]

A very interesting (and long) set of complaints against Direct Buy:

http://www.infomercialscams.com/scams/direct_buy_scams

[patrob]

If you read my post that's exactly what I mean.

I have a friend who has an account with DB, and almost everything that she has bought I ended up being quoted a better price.

Plus, she has to wait eons to get certain items.

Not sure what your friend bought but I can only speak on my experience & so far everything I have bought has been cheaper. Just recently ordered a Napoleon BBQ & I did get quotes from other stores & I was unable to match DB's price, along with some lighting, again DB price was lower again. Just because I have their membership does not mean I will not compare prices before I buy ;)

A very interesting (and long) set of complaints against Direct Buy:


I do agree that their sales pitch is a bit strong & that does scare people off. We were able to see prices before we signed up & they actually encouraged us to, so not sure why some people are claiming they were not able to do the same :| But in my situation form the purchases we made, I have saved quite a bit. I know a few DB members that are very happy with their membership but you rarely hear from those people. Maybe I should ask them to speak up :D

[TrevorK]

Not sure what your friend bought but I can only speak on my experience & so far everything I have bought has been cheaper. Just recently ordered a Napoleon BBQ & I did get quotes from other stores & I was unable to match DB's price, along with some lighting, again DB price was lower again. Just because I have their membership does not mean I will not compare prices before I buy ;)


The worst part is you can't tell us the price so we'll never know ;)

That's the big problem I have against DirectBuy, you're forced to take a company at their word their prices are significantly lower and you'll save in the long run.

There is no opportunity for potential members to price shop, and as the saying goes "...if it's too good to be true it probably is....", and without any evidence to support the contrary it is no wonder people scream "scam".

[Regin8r]

I know a few DB members that are very happy with their membership but you rarely hear from those people. Maybe I should ask them to speak up :D

I try to be impartial in dealing with DB. One of the gripes I have is that some of the things I ordered take forever to arrive while others arrive well before the expected date.

Their prices are always very good, but you will have to know what you are buying ahead of time. In most cases such as with appliances, it will be very hard for competitors to beat their prices for the latest and greatest stuff.

The same applies to electronics such as televisions. If you want a clearance/older TV, then you can definitely beat the DB pricing, but if you want the latest and greatest, a competitor will likely not be able to match it.

For a serious DIY'er, I find DB to be a great resource to research different products that are available at places such as Richelieu.

Sure, if you know somebody, you might be able to match or beat DB pricing, but for the majoirty who don't have such a connection, DB is good pricing start point.

[Gabriella]

DB is good pricing start point.

Yabbut, it shouldn't be a 'starting point' when we consider the thousands of dollars it costs to be a member. Essentially, once you've commited to DB, you will want to try to take advantage of any cost savings that may exist.

[Regin8r]

Well, if you don't want to shop around, it is the best prices you will get and you can get pretty much anything there.

How much is your time worth? The prices you get from DB you will not be able to get if you walk into any store. At the store, you'll have to go back and forth for a bit, and then haggle over the price.

In the end, you might be able to match DB, or beat it by small margin. In my experience of knowing the DB prices, I haven't been able to save much via haggling.

Pretty much if you are just buying a few things or one off items, then it's not worth it for you since you can spend the time haggling and driving store to store to price match.

For a lot of things at our new home, it's been the starting price point and the ending price point. Paid thousands, and got the best prices for the items we chose. If you are consistently looking for the bargain basement appliances or the cheapest slightly older electronics, or the cheapest quality furniture, then you won't need DB.

[JAC]

Well, if you don't want to shop around, it is the best prices you will get and you can get pretty much anything there.


Says you. Until someone posts a copy of the mythical DB catalogue, we really only have your word on it, don't we.

[Regin8r]

It's not one "mythical" catalogue, each manufacturer has it's own and the cost pricing is different for each.

I'm basically trying to explain how if you don't have the time to search all over the place, it's the best price you can get for the time you invest. If you want to search and haggle, then you can beat it.

If you want to twist my words around into gospel, then that's your perogative. I'm just posting my personal experience as is Patrob.

[patrob]

I'm just posting my personal experience as is Patrob.
That's all we can do :)

Actually I forgot to add that if by any chance you find a price that is lower than DB's, they will match it & beat it by 20% :!: Obviously they have to verify the price. So find me a retail store that will do the same ;) I often forget about their price matching policy because it has only happened once to me that a product was lower somewhere else. And as I said before, I do my pricing research before I purchase anything & with this policy I know for a fact that my price will be the lowest!

[grant]

I often forget about their price matching policy because it has only happened once to me that a product was lower somewhere else.

1) if you "often forget" to price match, how do you know that only once the retail price would have been lower?

2) If direct buy really sells to you at-cost, how could other retail prices ever be lower?

It sounds like they're deceiving people.

[Regin8r]

Sounds like you've never heard retailers say they can't sell it to you at that price because it's below their "cost".

The "cost" price is based on volume of the outfit. A big box store might be able to volume purchase at a lower per unit cost that DB.

I had friends that work at Future Shop, and they were able to show me their "cost" price on their system for a few electronics, and I was able to beat their supposed "cost" price. Even their "cost" price for appliances, I was able to beat quite easily.

Another example is the Vermont Casting 5 Burner BBQ that was on sale at Costco earlier this year. It was selling for $600 and if you go to any fireplace/BBQ specialty store, that BBQ at cost was at least $800 at a high volume store.

Again, based on personal experience which I'm sharing. I don't need to promote it since it doesn't affect me if people join DB or not. OP was asking for opinions from people who have experience with it, not what people think of their marketing or claims.

[GunnerX]

Regin8r joined DB because of me. :P I've been a DB member for 8 years and I'm definitely making full use of my membership. I stopped posting about DB on RFD because it's definitely not something most RFD members can comprehend and will just bash it no matter what other people say.

[patrob]

1) if you "often forget" to price match, how do you know that only once the retail price would have been lower?

2) If direct buy really sells to you at-cost, how could other retail prices ever be lower?

It sounds like they're deceiving people.

What I meant is that I haven't had a chance to use the price matching policy because I haven't found a lower price, up until recently. Trust me if I did I would be all over them & getting my 20% back ;) So with this policy you have nothing to loose since you know you will get the lowest price guaranteed.

I've been a DB member for 8 years and I'm definitely making full use of my membership. I stopped posting about DB on RFD because it's definitely not something most RFD members can comprehend and will just bash it no matter what other people say.

That is so true & I feel sometimes that I am wasting my breath explaining that DB does work :rolleyes: :D

[branat]

What I meant is that I haven't had a chance to use the price matching policy because I haven't found a lower price, up until recently. Trust me if I did I would be all over them & getting my 20% back ;) So with this policy you have nothing to loose since you know you will get the lowest price guaranteed.

:D

But doesn't that mean you break a cardinal rule of DB? Paraphashing Bob Closard, "as a member, you cannot bother retail stores if you are not going to purchase from them?"

[ketchudj]

Guys- it isn't a scam. Well not quite. The sales is very aggressive (timeshare-like). 90%+ of people don't get their money's worth (I have done the analysis). But some do. If you are in that 10% or so you can do well. Probably not many here are in that 10% as you need to spend $20k+ on higher end things.

I am not a member. I would not become a member because I am would not benefit enough. But there are people who this works for.

[patrob]

But doesn't that mean you break a cardinal rule of DB? Paraphashing Bob Closard, "as a member, you cannot bother retail stores if you are not going to purchase from them?"

I guess rules are meant to be broken :D I will shop wherever I will get the best price, period.

90%+ of people don't get their money's worth (I have done the analysis). But some do. If you are in that 10% or so you can do well. Probably not many here are in that 10% as you need to spend $20k+ on higher end things.

I am not a member. I would not become a member because I am would not benefit enough. But there are people who this works for.

I am not sure about those numbers but lets just say that I am one of the 10% then because I spent way more than $20k+ ;) I guess it's too bad for those that did join & did not get their money's worth but those who did spend a lot, saved some money.

[jbond]

Someone have to pay for the TV advertisements they showered you in all major networks. With the cost of TV ad these days, DB can not be cheap - common sense.

[grant]

Sounds like you've never heard retailers say they can't sell it to you at that price because it's below their "cost".
I totally understand that retaillers will lie about their true "cost" as a sales tactic. Apprently Direct Buy is one of them.

Your future shop buddy shows you some made-up cost in the computer system, and DB shows people some made-up cost in its catalogues. Both are apparently just marketing techniques to trick the gullible into thinking they got good deals when offered a slim discount.

The "cost" price is based on volume of the outfit. A big box store might be able to volume purchase at a lower per unit cost that DB.
Sometimes volume plays a role. If DB doesn't have the purchasing volume to ensure the best discounts then why bother with them, when cheaper stores are free to shop at?

What I meant is that I haven't had a chance to use the price matching policy because I haven't found a lower price, up until recently. Trust me if I did I would be all over them & getting my 20% back ;) So with this policy you have nothing to loose since you know you will get the lowest price guaranteed.
So at least once direct buy had lied to you: That they were charging more than their true cost, more than the lowest retail price.

Why should ANYONE trust a company that is proven to try to trick people into paying too much? That breaks the central premise of how they lure people to pay thousand$ to sign up.

[Regin8r]

I totally understand that retaillers will lie about their true "cost" as a sales tactic. Apprently Direct Buy is one of them.

Direct Buy doesn't make anything off the volume to you buy, their sales model is driven by membership dues. They are not trying to sell you the item you want to buy, they are selling you the membership. It is similar to the APA and Car Cost Canada. You pay for the membership, they don't really care which car you want to buy. Retailers lie about the cost to get you to buy a specific product. There is a difference. If you don't want to buy it, it doesn't make a difference to them since you're paying for the membership regardless.


Your future shop buddy shows you some made-up cost in the computer system, and DB shows people some made-up cost in its catalogues. Both are apparently just marketing techniques to trick the gullible into thinking they got good deals when offered a slim discount.

Possibly, since FS is commission driven buy the products you buy. The catalogues are not DB specific. They are the manufacturer catalogues and all the products are listed with the MSRP and the cost prices. It is a library of all the manufacturer catalogues when you visit the centre.

There is a seasonsal DB catalogue that has additional specials which are typically incentives offered buy the manufacturer.


Sometimes volume plays a role. If DB doesn't have the purchasing volume to ensure the best discounts then why bother with them, when cheaper stores are free to shop at?

For some items, the more volume you buy, the cheaper it is. For example drawer handles are cheaper if you buy 25 or more. A store could probably order 1000 or more which makes the cost much cheaper from the manufacturer.


So at least once direct buy had lied to you: That they were charging more than their true cost, more than the lowest retail price.

Why should ANYONE trust a company that is proven to try to trick people into paying too much? That breaks the central premise of how they lure people to pay thousand$ to sign up.


That's their policy. Similar to how Staples is sometime forced to honour their price matching policy even if it makes them sell at a loss.

I'm pretty much impartial to the DB philosophy as I have posted only what my experiences are. OP doesn't have to join as it will only benefit certain people.

Seems like grant has a real chip in his shoulder about DB though and seems hell bent on twisting around everyone's experiences into something negative.

[grant]

Seems like grant has a real chip in his shoulder about DB though and seems hell bent on twisting around everyone's experiences into something negative.
If you read my posts over the years about DB you'd discover i'm probably the most open-minded towards them.

the only "chip i have on my shoulder" is about their/your various claims which don't add up. (Well, i'm also unimpressed with their extremely high-pressure sales tactics, but caveat emptor...).

I can understand that your ego may be tied up in this company you've given $2000+ to. And probably you honestly believe you're better off for joining them. ... but that's no cause to attack me personally with this hyperbole about being "hell bent on twisting" ... if you can't explain the inconsistencies I've pointed out, then you just can ignore them.

[Regin8r]

If you read my posts over the years about DB you'd discover i'm probably the most open-minded towards them.

the only "chip i have on my shoulder" is about their/your various claims which don't add up. (Well, i'm also unimpressed with their extremely high-pressure sales tactics, but caveat emptor...).

I can understand that your ego may be tied up in this company you've given $2000+ to. And probably you honestly believe you're better off for joining them. ... but that's no cause to attack me personally with this hyperbole about being "hell bent on twisting" ... if you can't explain the inconsistencies I've pointed out, then you just can ignore them.

What exactly have I claimed that didn't add up? All I've done is explain the things you point out. :confused:

I apologize if you think I was attacking you personally, but I'm basically stating that all your posts are basically stating that the marketing DB uses is overstated (as that what good marketing is). You are essentially trying to say that they have false marketing. The inconsistencies are in the marketing that you are pointing out. How can you have an open mind if all you believe is the marketing?

What OP wants is experience from DB. Which is what a number of members posted. I don't need to justify how money is spent in our household to anybody. I'm not justifying anything. I posting an experience and that's all.

[grant]

Now to the point:

If you don't want to buy it, it doesn't make a difference to them since you're paying for the membership regardless.
If they're really making $0 on every sale, why would they create a policy designed to increase sales?

Possibly, since FS is commission driven buy the products you buy. The catalogues are not DB specific. They are the manufacturer catalogues and all the products are listed with the MSRP and the cost prices. It is a library of all the manufacturer catalogues when you visit the centre.
We're off the main point here, but you're naive if you think even manufacturer's catalogs necessarily list the true cost. I have looked through a few DB catalogues and they've all had pricing CODES, which are then listed in separate, easily replaced pricing sheets.

Furthermore it's very common for vendors to offer kickbacks/rebates which are not reflected in the catalogues.

For some items, the more volume you buy, the cheaper it is. For example drawer handles are cheaper if you buy 25 or more. A store could probably order 1000 or more which makes the cost much cheaper from the manufacturer.
Which totally dodges my original question:
"If DB doesn't have the purchasing volume to ensure the best discounts then why bother with [DB], when cheaper stores are free to shop at?"

That's their policy.
Repeating that doesn't get to the bottom of why it's their policy...

Similar to how Staples is sometime forced to honour their price matching policy even if it makes them sell at a loss.
You just wrote a whole paragraph going on about how Direct Buy is different than retailers, and how they're not motivated to sell more merchandise. Now suddenly your argument is exactly the opposite: "other retaillers do it, so they should too!"

"Price protection" policies are obviously marketing gimicks; they fall under the categories of "loss leader" or "price discrimination". They are a useful technique for any retailler that sells items at a profit.

In contrast: Price protection does not make sense under DirectBuy's claimed operating model because at least one of the following is true:

1) They are supposedly already selling at the "lowest" (0-profit price) so how could anyone undercut them?
2) Since they don't make profit on increased sales, why would they make a policy to ENCOURAGE sales?

DB's claims don't jive with reality.

[Regin8r]

Now to the point:
If they're really making $0 on every sale, why would they create a policy designed to increase sales?


The policy is there to assure members that if you can find a lower price, then their policy is to beat it. It's customer satisfaction.


We're off the main point here, but you're naive if you think even manufacturer's catalogs necessarily list the true cost. I have looked through a few DB catalogues and they've all had pricing CODES, which are then listed in separate, easily replaced pricing sheets.

It depends on the item. Some have pricing sheets, some have costs. Manufacturers are different. Some books will have at the back page the discount off MSRP which is typically 40-60% (a code for you).


Furthermore it's very common for vendors to offer kickbacks/rebates which are not reflected in the catalogues.

Actually, vendor rebates/promotions are also available at DB.


Which totally dodges my original question:
"If DB doesn't have the purchasing volume to ensure the best discounts then why bother with [DB], when cheaper stores are free to shop at?"

As I said, manufacturers are different so it's impossible to umbrella all products they sell into a volume discount situation. Do you have a specific example of a store that sells cheaper than DB? If you do, please let me know so I can get my extra 20% off. :cheesygri


Repeating that doesn't get to the bottom of why it's their policy...

You just wrote a whole paragraph going on about how Direct Buy is different than retailers, and how they're not motivated to sell more merchandise. Now suddenly your argument is exactly the opposite: "other retaillers do it, so they should too!"


Actually, I just said their sales model is different. Customer satisfaction should be aim of any business whether retail or service driven.


"Price protection" policies are obviously marketing gimicks; they fall under the categories of "loss leader" or "price discrimination". They are a useful technique for any retailler that sells items at a profit.

In contrast: Price protection does not make sense under DirectBuy's claimed operating model because at least one of the following is true:

1) They are supposedly already selling at the "lowest" (0-profit price) so how could anyone undercut them?
2) Since they don't make profit on increased sales, why would they make a policy to ENCOURAGE sales?

DB's claims don't jive with reality.

As I stated before, it's about customer satisfaction. If they didn't have it, and you found a lower price. Likely you would by upset. Having it keeps customers satisfied with their member dues that they pay.

[Hikeskigolfrelax]

We just joined since we'll be furnishing a condo in the near future and renovating portions of our house. We've estimated furnishing the condo will run us 20K in retail.

It is expensive to join, but I did not find the sales pitch at all 'heavy'. I was free to wander around and browse catalouges, and I also asked for several price comparisons on items for which I had a feel for retail cost (e.g. tires, appliances, leather sofas). They were happy to provide that information. In all cases, the items were 30- 50% less.

Will it be worth it in the end? I hope so, but I also realise that I may have been 'scamed'... we'll see. But it certainly is not for everyone, as has been stated numerous times in this thread.

Nonetheless, I will continue to comparison shop, as always.

[sobersky]

Some things are slightly less than retail and the big ticket items are a lot cheaper...no kitchen cabinets, are not much cheaper if you "shop" around. With the handling fee, freight charges and the fact that you have to "pay now" does not make the experience of shopping there enjoyable. Yes you can pay by credit card but there is a 2% surcharge and paying by Amex is out of the question. Then there is the "delivery to the centre" only on most items. There are certain items that you can get delivered to your home...for a price...higher than what you would have to pay for at a retail outlet such as Future Shop. All in all, if you do not have a means to pick up items purchased and the man power to do so, hiring a moving company to do it for you will cost a pretty penny. I won't even get into the per box charge (in addition to the above charges)...if you are purchasing kitchen cabinets!

Then there are incidences where, if you do not understand percentages, you can get ripped off, BIG TIME. I had to make corrections to their calculations of 3 out of the 4 times that I placed an order with them.

Having said all that, and since we've been suckered in and fell for their sales pitch, we are determined to make some, if not all of our money back.

Signed...Not bitter, just feel cheated

[lint]

We just joined since we'll be furnishing a condo in the near future and renovating portions of our house. We've estimated furnishing the condo will run us 20K in retail.

It is expensive to join, but I did not find the sales pitch at all 'heavy'. I was free to wander around and browse catalouges, and I also asked for several price comparisons on items for which I had a feel for retail cost (e.g. tires, appliances, leather sofas). They were happy to provide that information. In all cases, the items were 30- 50% less.

Will it be worth it in the end? I hope so, but I also realise that I may have been 'scamed'... we'll see. But it certainly is not for everyone, as has been stated numerous times in this thread.

Nonetheless, I will continue to comparison shop, as always.

How much is the membership?

[qster]

How much is the membership?

$3,000 to joing and a couple/few hundred $ each year after to keep your membership.

[grant]

It is expensive to join, but I did not find the sales pitch at all 'heavy'. I was free to wander around and browse catalouges,
It all depends on the location & the particular salesman assigned to you.

Some places won't let you look at catalogues, but others will.

Some salesmen give the gentle soft-sell, and others are a bit harder.

It's a lot like going to a timeshare pitch.

[exbell]

my husband and i went to the listen to the spiel at the buy direct in vancouver and we were quoted $5000 for the first year to become a new member.we were also told this was our only chance, no changing our mind later and trying to join. who are they kidding, if we were stupid enough to go back again do you think they would turn back $5000, not likely. where is everyone getting the amount $2700, that was never mentioned at all. didn't like the hard sell... too desperate and we were only curious.

[ikbradley]

As I stated before, it's about customer satisfaction. If they didn't have it, and you found a lower price. Likely you would by upset. Having it keeps customers satisfied with their member dues that they pay.

Or it could be that people revel in their own ignorance. Direct Buy uses misleading marketing and should be investigated by the Competition Bureau for false and misleading advertising. To suggest in their ads that one pays a fraction of retail is completely false. Instead, Direct Buy should state that you pay less than the manufactures suggested retail price, which translates into a practice that every retailer has (unless you live in remote locations like the Arctic circle).

The high pressure tactics are telling. To mislead individuals about "retail prices" and induce people into committing several thousands for a membership in order to see the prices or be banned for life is absurd. I really feel sorry that you took the time to even answer in defense of a business that clearly should be blacklisted by the Better Business Bureau... oh wait....

http://search.bbb.org/Results.aspx?n=direct+buy&add=&c=&st=&z=

[GunnerX]

Or it could be that people revel in their own ignorance. Direct Buy uses misleading marketing and should be investigated by the Competition Bureau for false and misleading advertising. To suggest in their ads that one pays a fraction of retail is completely false. Instead, Direct Buy should state that you pay less than the manufactures suggested retail price, which translates into a practice that every retailer has (unless you live in remote locations like the Arctic circle).

The high pressure tactics are telling. To mislead individuals about "retail prices" and induce people into committing several thousands for a membership in order to see the prices or be banned for life is absurd. I really feel sorry that you took the time to even answer in defense of a business that clearly should be blacklisted by the Better Business Bureau... oh wait....

http://search.bbb.org/Results.aspx?n=direct+buy&add=&c=&st=&z=

YAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAWWWWWN.... 3 posts, 2 in this thread repeating the same thing, 2 posts with BBB links. Yes, the internet sure is a great source of information. Everyone should definitely trust what's posted on the intarweb. Got any more links?

It's quite interesting how you're quick to call people ignorant for joining DB. Yet all you do is rehash the same lame crap that has been mentioned over and over again. Google failing you?

[grons]

Some things are slightly less than retail and the big ticket items are a lot cheaper...no kitchen cabinets, are not much cheaper if you "shop" around. With the handling fee, freight charges and the fact that you have to "pay now" does not make the experience of shopping there enjoyable. Yes you can pay by credit card but there is a 2% surcharge and paying by Amex is out of the question. Then there is the "delivery to the centre" only on most items. There are certain items that you can get delivered to your home...for a price...higher than what you would have to pay for at a retail outlet such as Future Shop. All in all, if you do not have a means to pick up items purchased and the man power to do so, hiring a moving company to do it for you will cost a pretty penny. I won't even get into the per box charge (in addition to the above charges)...if you are purchasing kitchen cabinets!

Then there are incidences where, if you do not understand percentages, you can get ripped off, BIG TIME. I had to make corrections to their calculations of 3 out of the 4 times that I placed an order with them.

Having said all that, and since we've been suckered in and fell for their sales pitch, we are determined to make some, if not all of our money back.

Signed...Not bitter, just feel cheated

I got all my GE appliances delivered and unpacked to my house for a $80 charge.

So there!!!!

[GunnerX]

I got all my GE appliances delivered and unpacked to my house for a $80 charge.

So there!!!!

We bought an upright freezer and it was delivered to our house at no charge. Some suppliers do deliver to your home. I paid the delivery guys an extra $20 and they brought it to the basement. They had to take out the door but it seems like they've done it many times before as they knew exactly what to do.

[grant]

where is everyone getting the amount $2700, that was never mentioned at all.
Coquitlam, in 2004. Prices are constantly going up, if you read older reviews you see people getting memberships for like $700.

During my sales pitch I looked up the price of blinds. OK, they offer levellor at a significant discount to MSRP. Sure they could beat Home Depot's price, and maybe even any other retailler offering Levellor brand.

But then I went online and found generic blinds that were just as good for 1/3 the discounted cost of the levellors. DB didn't offer any generic alternatives so for that product i'd have no buy from them, since they don't offer the best bargain. I imagined the same would be true of most of the other home renovations they offer.

[jetz]

Regin8r joined DB because of me. :P I've been a DB member for 8 years and I'm definitely making full use of my membership. I stopped posting about DB on RFD because it's definitely not something most RFD members can comprehend and will just bash it no matter what other people say.

I second that. The way I see it there are several problems here:

1) Any good deal hunter has a natural curiosity to them and is bound to question everything. Directbuy from this angle seems too good to be true. Any rational person would ask how they make money. They make it through membership fees. Hence the need to keep growing. Hey if that's their model fine with me. I'll take their prices.

2) Customer experience varies from centre to centre. I've had great service in Ottawa and not so good service at a few Toronto area centres. That's what results in tons of internet complaints.

3) DB is not for everyone. This is really a big problem. They tell you in the sales pitch if you aren't spending like 15-20k on stuff, don't join or you won't recover membership fees. It's certainly not for the Ikea/Walmart crowd. If what you buy has little margin, DB can't help you. That's something I certainly wish they were more clear on. At my centre, I am probably one of the lower earners....and I make 70k a year. The income group and the tastes of that group are certainly above middle class. So why somebody who does not intend to spends less than 20k in 10 years, would join regardless is beyond me....and then complain about how they feel ripped off, shows their ignorance more than anything. If you don't have the cash to spend, they're not holding a gun to your head. Just walk out and use regular retail. It'd be good for all concerned. But don't hate on current members or discourage those who think it would be good for them. Your experience is your own, and will certainly not apply to others.

4) Their sales pitch sucks. As a member, I certainly think it sucks. According to a friend of mine who used to work at DB, there is a reason for this. At his centre they used to allow prospective members to mill things over. What ended up happening was that folks would come in, look up the prices and then head over to retail stores and use the threat of joining DB to get bargains. The retailers would then complain to the OEMs and DB. As a result DB ended up going to the take it or leave it pitch. I don't agree with the sales pitch, but I guess there's up and downs to both approaches.... I don't know how one could get around that....

For current members.....there really is not much use discussing DB on places like RFD. It's not a crowd that would be willing to change its mind anyway. At best we can agree to disagree. We have our experience...and our savings. That's our benefit. If somebody else does not feel like joining that's their decision....hehehe....just don't ask us to buy stuff for you....I have been PM'd a few times on this.....

[trini_2_d_bone]

Stay away from DirectBuy.
A co-worker had so much problem with them.
He's presently in "small claims" trying to get his money back.

[grons]

Stay away from DirectBuy.
A co-worker had so much problem with them.
He's presently in "small claims" trying to get his money back.

What is the dispute?

I'm a member and have nothing but praise for them.

However I have bought big ticket items from other sources, because DB mostly carries premium brands. IE a memory foam mattress.

[kaytay]

Okay well first off, Direct buy is not what people think. Yes, there is a membership fee, thats only due to the fact that they don't mark up their products. You get it at COST. COST meaning, for some who dont know. There is not middleman or hidden store mark ups, which does result in a tremendous SAVINGS. You able to purchase the EXACT same products you can buy at a store but thru direct buy, you save up to 50% and more. You can get ANYTHING for in and around your home. And that is the soul purpose of having a membership, since they don't make anything off of what you buy, they have the membership, it is simply smart that way. And if you look at it, throughout lets say 10 years of your life you buy lots, replacing things, gifts ect. So you do get your monies worth. I mean, no one is going to sign up just because they want a good deal on a coffee maker, but I've seen cases where people sign up because its a great concept and they weren't looking to buy anything in the present time, i've seen people come in for the initial visit, not join but say it is a great concept and if they had either the finances, or if they were purchasing they would jump on it. Most of what you people are talking about, really isn't true because most of you haven't gone to see what its all about. Its all hear say and what you've read on the net.
You don't get cheap products, you get NAME BRAND. I mean who doesn't want that in their home, it looks nice and it makes you feel better because you sit there and think, look where i've got myself.

All in all, I think you should actually do your research, meaning go for a visit before you make your decision.

[grons]

Okay well first off, Direct buy is not what people think. Yes, there is a membership fee, thats only due to the fact that they don't mark up their products. You get it at COST. COST meaning, for some who dont know. There is not middleman or hidden store mark ups, which does result in a tremendous SAVINGS. You able to purchase the EXACT same products you can buy at a store but thru direct buy, you save up to 50% and more. You can get ANYTHING for in and around your home. And that is the soul purpose of having a membership, since they don't make anything off of what you buy, they have the membership, it is simply smart that way. And if you look at it, throughout lets say 10 years of your life you buy lots, replacing things, gifts ect. So you do get your monies worth. I mean, no one is going to sign up just because they want a good deal on a coffee maker, but I've seen cases where people sign up because its a great concept and they weren't looking to buy anything in the present time, i've seen people come in for the initial visit, not join but say it is a great concept and if they had either the finances, or if they were purchasing they would jump on it. Most of what you people are talking about, really isn't true because most of you haven't gone to see what its all about. Its all hear say and what you've read on the net.
You don't get cheap products, you get NAME BRAND. I mean who doesn't want that in their home, it looks nice and it makes you feel better because you sit there and think, look where i've got myself.

All in all, I think you should actually do your research, meaning go for a visit before you make your decision.

Direct buy Franchise Owner are you?

Please - posts like these make it harder for us DB members to tout the benefits of joining DB.

I've never seen 50% on anything.

For example they carry Seiko watches at 50% off MSRP, however no one ever buys at that price so the savings are not really 50%.

Seiko/ Pulsar Canada
Men's Sportura Alarm Chronograph Watch
SNA481

DB price - $282.63
From an authorized distributor.

Best price on Internet(US) - $315-330
However these are probably not authorized dealers.

[notbydesign]

Okay well first off, Direct buy is not what people think. Yes, there is a membership fee, thats only due to the fact that they don't mark up their products. You get it at COST. COST meaning, for some who dont know. There is not middleman or hidden store mark ups, which does result in a tremendous SAVINGS. You able to purchase the EXACT same products you can buy at a store but thru direct buy, you save up to 50% and more. You can get ANYTHING for in and around your home. And that is the soul purpose of having a membership, since they don't make anything off of what you buy, they have the membership, it is simply smart that way. And if you look at it, throughout lets say 10 years of your life you buy lots, replacing things, gifts ect. So you do get your monies worth. I mean, no one is going to sign up just because they want a good deal on a coffee maker, but I've seen cases where people sign up because its a great concept and they weren't looking to buy anything in the present time, i've seen people come in for the initial visit, not join but say it is a great concept and if they had either the finances, or if they were purchasing they would jump on it. Most of what you people are talking about, really isn't true because most of you haven't gone to see what its all about. Its all hear say and what you've read on the net.
You don't get cheap products, you get NAME BRAND. I mean who doesn't want that in their home, it looks nice and it makes you feel better because you sit there and think, look where i've got myself.

All in all, I think you should actually do your research, meaning go for a visit before you make your decision.

Sooooo sooo sorry... I'm guessing you may work at the Stoney Creek Location? seeing as it says you live in hamilton on the side there and you used part of the booking script word for word... oh... you forgot to say "now we included a visitors pass along with the information we sent out, and this gives folks like you the opportunity to see first hand the tremendous savings that are available and how it can help your family!"???... IFFFF im right... might want to not show off your direct buy skills... people watch :lol:

[LaaadyJ]

I'm new to this, forgive me. From what I understand from the posts, DB is for those who have $$ to spend on high end items. We're redoing our kitchen and are looking for high end appliances i.e. SubZero, Wolf, Miele. Are there deals for higher end appliances such as these, or is it the more common names such as GE, Maytag etc..?

As well anyone with experience with bigger ticket items such as windows, flooring etc..? It sounds like this might be a good venture for us

[whodaphucru]

This place is like buying a timeshare or a condo complete with a high pressure sales force to get you to sign up with limited informatio up front. I won't disagree that some may benefit from this place however most will not!

CBC (perhaps is was CTV) did a great expose on them a few years back, if you search on google you will likely find it. I went for the free open house or whatever they called it which was them trying to pressure me into buying a membership. The fact of the matter is if you a good shopper looking for deals/ sales and are able to negociate for big tickets the DB prices are not that much different particularly when you factor in the ridiculous membership costs.

The expose also discussed the need to pay for all purchases in advance and if there were issues with the item when it arrived to bad so sad.

In their marketing and advertising practices say a lot about the company and lack credibility!! After they got my name they called my house every night twice a night for almost a year. If you join goodluck and hopefully it works out for you.

[LaaadyJ]

Thank you. Good to know about the return policy and warranty info.

[Truth Seeker]

Can anyone tell me what the cost of a membership is? Does it vary by location/franchise? Does it differ depending on whether you are building a new house, or renovating? (It seems like DB is pretty interested in knowing this information.) Does the annual fee vary?

[miss_swan]

I second that. The way I see it there are several problems here:

1) Any good deal hunter has a natural curiosity to them and is bound to question everything. Directbuy from this angle seems too good to be true. Any rational person would ask how they make money. They make it through membership fees. Hence the need to keep growing. Hey if that's their model fine with me. I'll take their prices.

2) Customer experience varies from centre to centre. I've had great service in Ottawa and not so good service at a few Toronto area centres. That's what results in tons of internet complaints.

3) DB is not for everyone. This is really a big problem. They tell you in the sales pitch if you aren't spending like 15-20k on stuff, don't join or you won't recover membership fees. It's certainly not for the Ikea/Walmart crowd. If what you buy has little margin, DB can't help you. That's something I certainly wish they were more clear on. At my centre, I am probably one of the lower earners....and I make 70k a year. The income group and the tastes of that group are certainly above middle class. So why somebody who does not intend to spends less than 20k in 10 years, would join regardless is beyond me....and then complain about how they feel ripped off, shows their ignorance more than anything. If you don't have the cash to spend, they're not holding a gun to your head. Just walk out and use regular retail. It'd be good for all concerned. But don't hate on current members or discourage those who think it would be good for them. Your experience is your own, and will certainly not apply to others.

4) Their sales pitch sucks. As a member, I certainly think it sucks. According to a friend of mine who used to work at DB, there is a reason for this. At his centre they used to allow prospective members to mill things over. What ended up happening was that folks would come in, look up the prices and then head over to retail stores and use the threat of joining DB to get bargains. The retailers would then complain to the OEMs and DB. As a result DB ended up going to the take it or leave it pitch. I don't agree with the sales pitch, but I guess there's up and downs to both approaches.... I don't know how one could get around that....

For current members.....there really is not much use discussing DB on places like RFD. It's not a crowd that would be willing to change its mind anyway. At best we can agree to disagree. We have our experience...and our savings. That's our benefit. If somebody else does not feel like joining that's their decision....hehehe....just don't ask us to buy stuff for you....I have been PM'd a few times on this.....

Thank you for a rational post (I realize this was 2008) ... as for the bolded section ... do people actually PM you to ask if you could buy stuff for them? Complete strangers? Wow. I can see this for family or friends but complete strangers? Interesting. Anything to save a buck huh? :)

[CaptSmethwick]

Am very seriously considering joining. Does anybody know where the Ottawa area outlets are and if there's any difference between them in terms of fees, service, etc.

[patrob]

Am very seriously considering joining. Does anybody know where the Ottawa area outlets are and if there's any difference between them in terms of fees, service, etc.

Here are the locations www.directbuy.com/About/CentersCA.htm

[coolspot]

I'm new to this, forgive me. From what I understand from the posts, DB is for those who have $$ to spend on high end items. We're redoing our kitchen and are looking for high end appliances i.e. SubZero, Wolf, Miele. Are there deals for higher end appliances such as these, or is it the more common names such as GE, Maytag etc..?

You can get good prices at Tasco, Appliance Canada, Morelys, Caplans, etc - these stores all carry high-end appliances.

[lifeisfuneh]

Okay well first off, Direct buy is not what people think. Yes, there is a membership fee, thats only due to the fact that they don't mark up their products. You get it at COST. COST meaning, for some who dont know. There is not middleman or hidden store mark ups, which does result in a tremendous SAVINGS. You able to purchase the EXACT same products you can buy at a store but thru direct buy, you save up to 50% and more. You can get ANYTHING for in and around your home. And that is the soul purpose of having a membership, since they don't make anything off of what you buy, they have the membership, it is simply smart that way. And if you look at it, throughout lets say 10 years of your life you buy lots, replacing things, gifts ect. So you do get your monies worth. I mean, no one is going to sign up just because they want a good deal on a coffee maker, but I've seen cases where people sign up because its a great concept and they weren't looking to buy anything in the present time, i've seen people come in for the initial visit, not join but say it is a great concept and if they had either the finances, or if they were purchasing they would jump on it. Most of what you people are talking about, really isn't true because most of you haven't gone to see what its all about. Its all hear say and what you've read on the net.
You don't get cheap products, you get NAME BRAND. I mean who doesn't want that in their home, it looks nice and it makes you feel better because you sit there and think, look where i've got myself.

All in all, I think you should actually do your research, meaning go for a visit before you make your decision.

Great concept...? are you crazy...?
You are bunch of crooks!

[pokguy]

I am, but going to be not a member. I decided to quit because I got what I needed already and no longer shop there. In brief, if you have a big project (renovation...etc), it worths to join. If you are thinking of buying only a few things a year, forget it.

Costed me $3,000 to join first year, then $200 per year for renewal. I built my own house about 5 years ago, so it did save me a few thousand dollars.

Here're the what they have, based on regular price (not MSRP):
1. Around 10-15% off on electronics stuff. Limited brand names. Toshiba, Samsung, Fujifilm, LG, Panasonic, JVC, are on the list. I can't recall all. They claim they can get any items they carry, but not exactly.
2. Around 70% off on funitures. Majority of the items they carry are funitures.
3. Around 20% off on major and small home appliances. The more expensive it is, the more discount you have. Pretty much all brand names are available
4. Home, garden, renovation......40% off
5. Tires, I forgot, but I bought a set of four from them still cheaper then Costco
6. Watches, Jewellery, 30 - 50% off
7. Others are around 20% off

In general, funitures, appliances, renovation materials are the big savings. Others you probably can get the same or better deal when the retailers have a big sale event.

Shopping experience:
1. It is very painful. You are stuck in the "library" looking at all the catalogs to find out which brands, models, prices. But you can't really see or feel it. This is pretty bad when shopping furniture. I turned out went to the retail stores, found the ones I liked, compared the price and went back to order. Sometimes, you have to go several places to compare. And DB may not have the model you like, because the manufacturer may no longer carry that line.
2. Ordering takes forever. I ordered my sofa set. They came 6 months later. I did save couple of thousands though.
3. Shipping and handling can be nightmare. Cost is calculated from the sender to DB, it can cost as much as the item you buy. And for big pieces, you have to ship from DB to your home. So double shipping. Once outside their warehouse, they are not responsible. So you have to open up all the packaging and make sure they are all fine before you leave.
4. Forget about returning. If you don't like what you bought, you pay all the shipping to return it. Unlike FS or BB, you can simply return them. It's even worst if you want to return large pieces.

Just to give you some ideas......I saved around $2,000 on major appliances, another $2,000 on renovation stuff, another $2,000 - $2,000 on funitures. I never bought any electronics stuff from them, first, not much savings, second, return policy, third, other stores can have pretty competitive pricing. Other things I bought probably saved me only $500 max. If it was not the shipping, I could have saved more. Remind you that I built my house so I could buy and save a few thousands. If you are not having a big project in mind, you'll never make it even with your membership fee, unless you plan to change your furnitures and appliances every so often.

[sixer]

Can't believe there still in business, what a joke

[fajer]

Can't believe there still in business, what a joke

i'm a member and its no joke.

the showroom is packed everytime I go there.

[CaptSmethwick]

Here are the locations www.directbuy.com/About/CentersCA.htm

Thanks

I should have posted that I had checked the site but I had also heard of an outlet in the West end of Ottawa. Perhaps there were plans to open one that have not yet come to fruition?

Oh well.

We're waffling on joining. As we're heading into a reno, there are advantages but we're not sure that we're up for the PITA factor.

[patrob]

We're waffling on joining. As we're heading into a reno, there are advantages but we're not sure that we're up for the PITA factor.

I don't actually find it a PITA. I usually know what I want to buy, do the research beforehand & just go in & order, simple. If you want to see a particular item, you go into a store that carries it, see what it looks like & then order the same thing from DB :D

[CaptSmethwick]

I don't actually find it a PITA. I usually know what I want to buy, do the research beforehand & just go in & order, simple. If you want to see a particular item, you go into a store that carries it, see what it looks like & then order the same thing from DB :D

Hmmm. It's more the shipping arrangements and the possibility of our holding up the reno contractor if the item that arrives is wrong or incomplete. I'm thinking fixtures, cabinets, etc. I've heard good and bad stories on this front.

I'm cutting and pasting the following here. I posted this on the shopping forum but it's getting only dead air there. Any advice would be appreciated.


We are planning a large-ish reno that will include:
- 15 new large-ish windows for the entire house
- new window treatments (again, for the entire house)
- kitchen cabinets
- fridge, range, wall oven
- 4 or 5 bathroom sinks & faucets, 3 vanities, a shower, 3 toilets, a jacuzzi tub

The contractor we are in the process of selecting is willing to work with materials we supply and we and they are aware of problems associated with customer taking responsibility for supply of this type of stuff. We are also aware of the downside of returns, and possible delays associated with buying from DB, etc. but are prepared to be flexible

So, to my questions:


Does it matter which DB outlet we go to in terms of what we'll pay for a membership?
Which suppliers do they have for windows and kitchen cabinets?
Is it even worth considering windows through DB?


Thanks in advance

[Tharnax]

I'm also looking for a similar answer to CaptSmethwick above,

I'm in the process of rebuilding a cottage, and will be looking for the following:
35 windows
4 patio doors
roofing
All new appliances
Entry doors
Screen porch
6 sky lights
2 sun tunnels
3600 sqft siding
single garage door
New Kitchen and bathroom cabinets
etc

I'm considering a membership at Directbuy and it seems most people see the furniture as the most cost savings, which I'm not buy much of, but wondering if any current Directbuy members have would know what of above would be available. Also, how easy would it be given exact manufacture, model number, etc, would it be to get possible quotes from a current directbuy member? To add futher incentive, I'd be willing to pay a Direct buy member up to 1/2 a new membership fee on the savings on items purchased through Direct Buy as compensation for the possible work involved. So for example, a new membership is $3000, which has been suggested in earlier posts. If someone can help me realize a savings of $3000 or more then I'd give the DirectBuy member $1500 out of the savings for helping out. So I'd save worst case 50% and the DirectBuy member would get a minimum of 50% of their inital membership fee back, assuming current membership fee is $3000.

Thoughts?

[pokguy]

I live in Vancouver, so not sure if my answer can help. When I had my house built, all of the reno discounts were from local dealers. It really depends on each DB whether they have good dealers on their vendor list. My experience:

Kitchen and bathroom hardware:
I bought everything thru them. 40% discount from regular prices. However, my contractor could get certain discount as well, although not as much, I'd say may be 20%.

Cabinets:
My contractors got a better deal.

Appliances:
Best of all. No brainer. Pretty much all brands, all models. Easy to order, big saving, and they delivered to my home site instead of double shipping. I found out an item was broken after delivery. Called DB back, they arranged a swap within a week. No question asked. Saved $2,000. I went for high end models though. Lower end models savings would not be that much.

Windows, skylights:
The Vancouver DB got a very good dealer. Saved $2,000 overall

All sort of doors:
My contractor got a better deal

So it really depends on if you have a contractor or not. They might be able to get a pretty good price as well. If it is a DIY project, DB can give you pretty good savings.

[miss_swan]

i'm a member and its no joke.

the showroom is packed everytime I go there.

Must be the lemming factor ... just kidding! :lol:

An interesting concept this DB ... I can see there is a threshold where it can be worth it to join, perhaps ... I actually googled their Vancouver locations and was surprised to find out where they were.

[CaptSmethwick]

I live in Vancouver, so not sure if my answer can help. When I had my house built, all of the reno discounts were from local dealers. It really depends on each DB whether they have good dealers on their vendor list. My experience:

Kitchen and bathroom hardware:
I bought everything thru them. 40% discount from regular prices. However, my contractor could get certain discount as well, although not as much, I'd say may be 20%.

Cabinets:
My contractors got a better deal.

Appliances:
Best of all. No brainer. Pretty much all brands, all models. Easy to order, big saving, and they delivered to my home site instead of double shipping. I found out an item was broken after delivery. Called DB back, they arranged a swap within a week. No question asked. Saved $2,000. I went for high end models though. Lower end models savings would not be that much.

Windows, skylights:
The Vancouver DB got a very good dealer. Saved $2,000 overall

All sort of doors:
My contractor got a better deal

So it really depends on if you have a contractor or not. They might be able to get a pretty good price as well. If it is a DIY project, DB can give you pretty good savings.

Thanks - this is very useful. We will be using a contractor. If nothing else, DB will help keep their pencil sharp.

[slgeam]

Today I went to Direct Buy after reading the forum and even though my boyfriend and I had decided we most likely wouldn't be signing up, here's what happened:

My boyfriend and I are still young, only recently having graduated from university and starting to work but looking to upgrade our bedroom as we upgrade our housing in July. I was looking for deals on beds online and found Direct Buy. Any time that I tried to find information about the furniture that they had they would give me the option to get a free visitor's pass. So thinking it would be good to see what they had, I signed up for the open house.

Leading up to the open house appointment...
They sent me multiple reminder emails and called to make sure that I was still available at the time I had selected. They also repeated several times to allocate at least an hour and a half, never said for what. They made a point of getting me to verify that my partner was also available. All of this is what made my boyfriend start questioning Direct Buy, but we decided to check it out anyway.

At the open house...
We were greeted at the door by a host who introduced us to a sales rep. They walked us in to a desk and took a survey, the sales rep didn't give us much information about Direct Buy. All we saw was a room with 5 or 6 tables (office style with no desks) with other sales reps giving the same speech , a wall with catalogs, rugs samples, some door knob samples almost like a homedepot wall, no showroom or assembled furniture, except for one bed. However, when he found out that we were really just looking for a bed he suggested that since we only get one chance at a membership that we should wait a few years when we want to buy more furniture. At this point the host interrupted and pretty much kicked us out.

Our thoughts...
Even though the sales rep didn't really give us much information about Direct Buy we were starting to agree that we should consider returning later in life. Upon getting shown the door, however, it made us think that they are looking for naive people who have money now and not building a relationship with the younger generations who will have money and renovation projects in the future. Their lack of customer service has discouraged us from ever using or recommending their services.

So you can call it whatever you want a SCAM or not. It does feel like one though. Also we read somewhere online that they charge a 7% per order, this is probably how they make money, besides the membership fee (which btw they never said anything about it)

[chadjustine]

My fiance and I are members of DB and it is not a scam.

YES, the membership fees are pretty expensive. BUT, the average mark down on things you buy is about 47% (some are a bit more - ie. we bought some bathroom fixtures that were 52% lower) at regular store prices. When stores offer "sale" prices, DB is about 25% cheaper.

Our membership cost was $5K. Give the almost 50% savings on items, you would need to spend just over $10K to make your money back.

We are redoing:

- two bathrooms
- a basement (and making a home theatre room)
- replacing 5 major appliances (fridge, stove, washer, dryer, dishwasher)
- getting a bedroom set
- replacing the windows on the house
- getting a new living room set

Now, keep in mind, this is all stuff we wanted to do BEFORE we heard of Direct Buy. Not one of those "well since we have the membership, we can/should do this." These were all planned over the next few years.

We have already made back our investment and its been a year. We have already replaced the windows in the house (we paid around $7K which saved us about 42% from quotes we got on the open market). We just bought glass shower doors (we got quotes ranging from $1600 - $2000 .. we paid $900). All our bathroom fixtures/toilet/etc were all 52% off store prices. For our basement home theatre room, I was planning on a projector and screen. The projector I was planning to get is, give or take, $3K in various stores. DB has it for $1700. We purchased tiles and radiant heating for our ensuite bathroom. We priced it out at 3 different stores and it would have cost about $650 - $700. We paid just over $300 (something like $317 or something). My dad wants to buy a new TV. I will get it for him at DB. He will save something like $1200. In "repayment" for doing him a favour and saving him money, he offered to pay a month or two of our membership for us. He STILL ends up saving a big chunk of money.

Customer service is YMMV. The people in store are generally pretty helpful. When calling about a placed order or dealing with warehouse staff, its touch and go. Some are ok, some you want to beat with a stick .. repeatedly. Shipping times are sometimes annoying. Its supposed to be 2 - 4 weeks and it takes 6. However, the flip side is, the tiles we ordered were 2 - 4 weeks and 4 days later, they arrived. Some places will only ship to the DB warehouse, which is a pain if you are buying a fridge and stove but drive an Elantra. So, you have to pay them to deliver or rent a pickup for a few hours. Some people wont like that. Personally, Im ok with it. For example, the shower doors. I saved about, roughly, about $900 on the doors themselves. But delivery was only available to the DB Warehouse. So, I rented an F150 for 4 hours ($50) and picked them up myself. So sadly, I only saved $850 on the doors. Boo hoo.

Some will call it a scam, some will not. I can only speak of my experiences and they have all been pretty good. The money we have saved has been amazing.

[DealMakerLoverBreaker]

This place is like buying a timeshare or a condo complete with a high pressure sales force to get you to sign up with limited informatio up front. I won't disagree that some may benefit from this place however most will not!

CBC (perhaps is was CTV) did a great expose on them a few years back, if you search on google you will likely find it. I went for the free open house or whatever they called it which was them trying to pressure me into buying a membership. The fact of the matter is if you a good shopper looking for deals/ sales and are able to negociate for big tickets the DB prices are not that much different particularly when you factor in the ridiculous membership costs.

The expose also discussed the need to pay for all purchases in advance and if there were issues with the item when it arrived to bad so sad.

In their marketing and advertising practices say a lot about the company and lack credibility!! After they got my name they called my house every night twice a night for almost a year. If you join goodluck and hopefully it works out for you.


Yeah here's the link... http://www.cbc.ca/marketplace/2009/the_price_cut_promise/main.html

[chadjustine]

Yeah here's the link... http://www.cbc.ca/marketplace/2009/the_price_cut_promise/main.html

Funny thing about those expose's .. they only show one side of the story. It is hardly objective.

[JAC]

Funny thing about those expose's .. they only show one side of the story. It is hardly objective.

I rather doubt there is another side of the story.

[DealMakerLoverBreaker]

Funny thing about those expose's .. they only show one side of the story. It is hardly objective.

I respectfully disagree because on the pos. side they do talk about how that with some items you can get savings with DB but with others you don't. Sure the story is likely more negative towards them then not but thats simply because thats what they discovered through their investigation. You can certainly argue about the thoroughness of it but they definately raise many concerns that have already been discussed in this forum such as the high pressure tactics, poor service after you sign up, and questionable benefits among others.

[chadjustine]

I respectfully disagree because on the pos. side they do talk about how that with some items you can get savings with DB but with others you don't. Sure the story is likely more negative towards them then not but thats simply because thats what they discovered through their investigation. You can certainly argue about the thoroughness of it but they definately raise many concerns that have already been discussed in this forum such as the high pressure tactics, poor service after you sign up, and questionable benefits among others.


The expose was done with 3 or 4 unhappy former members. Lets find out the ratio of happy customers vs. unhappy customers then make an expose about that. No? Why not? Because that wouldnt sell.

The bottom line is that generally, most people dont voice their happiness with companies/services. But they sure do piss and moan when things go wrong. Every single store or business has unhappy customers. There is not ONE that doesnt. Sure, DB may have quite a few complaints but again, take that comparison to how many are happy. The more customers you serve, the more there is a chance to have unhappy people. Its just the law of numbers. Some people you just CANT make happy, no matter what you do. My guess is that most of these complaints come from people who didnt inform themselves enough. That is purely speculation on my part mind you.

I will give you the sign up pressure tactics. They certainly shouldnt be doing that. But, from what I know, it didnt always use to be like that. They DID have a "sure, go home and think about it policy" until people started going to retail stores and demanding the same discounts as DB. When that started happening, they changed the policy.

I will give you that the customer service, after the fact, its occasionally sketchy from time to time. I have had good service and bad service. But how does that differ from any other store? I cant remember the last time I went into Canadian Tire and received help from someone who was at least awake, let alone had a clue about any of their products. You can argue that the membership fees of DB should be enough that they should throw themselves at your feet but I disagree. Their service SHOULD be better than what it is but then again, the whole service industry in Canada stinks. Clothing retail is largely full of smart-allecky teenage kids who are working mostly for beer money. The food industry is much the same. Look at our Telco companies (Rogers, Bell, Telus) .. their service is terrible and probably the worst across the board.

As for the "questionable" benefits? I disagree completely. Yes, there are a FEW items that come out to close to even and a FEW that come out to more (with shipping and handling and blah blah). I cant deny it nor will I try to. But out of the, literally, tens of thousands of items that they sell, how is that SUCH a horrible thing? What about the manufacturers that dont have any shipping/handling charges at all? What about the fridge that costs $3799 (almost 4300 with taxes) in the stores but is $2658 (about 3100 with taxes) at DB. Oh no, but they are charging you $200 shipping. Heavens to betsy .. now you only save $1K instead of 1200.

DB is certainly not a perfect business. Not even close. But this expose makes them out to be two steps away from Nazi's.

[lucrob]

We have already replaced the windows in the house (we paid around $7K which saved us about 42% from quotes we got on the open market).

Hey what manufacturer of windows do they carry?

[coolspot]

We just bought glass shower doors (we got quotes ranging from $1600 - $2000 .. we paid $900).

How large is your shower door?

All our bathroom fixtures/toilet/etc were all 52% off store prices

What brand of toilet are you looking at?

[chadjustine]

Hey what manufacturer of windows do they carry?


Arcor, Hy-Lite, Tru Tech for sure. Those were the ones we were looking at. I *think* they have a couple of other ones as well.

[chadjustine]

How large is your shower door?

What brand of toilet are you looking at?


The shower doors were for a 48" x 36" stall and are 72" high. I'm pretty sure they are the 10mm and not the 8mm doors as well.

The toilet/fixtures we got are from Kohler. Toilet, shower head/value controls, sink tap, light fixture, towel racks. All in brushed nickel.

[s1301950]

Hey what manufacturer of windows do they carry?

With this year Reno credit, we went ahead with opening a window in our dark dining room. After seeing the price difference between a plain 3 pane window and a bay window ($300) we went with a bay window. DB carries 3 brands - arcor, marlboro, and DEI. Marlboro got the best specs in numbers, but arcor was the cheapest with installation. After everything is said and done, it came to $3500 for a 6 ft bay window (installation + taxes, etc etc). Try doing that outside (believe me, every time we consider DB, we calls for at least 4 outside quotes), they all give you a number between 5k to 7.5k. "No. Thank you."

One annoying about DB is their delivery date. You could expect up to 6 weeks after you put your money down to see the stuff you paid for.

[s1301950]

Yeah here's the link... http://www.cbc.ca/marketplace/2009/the_price_cut_promise/main.html


Even more funny about story is that one lady in that story was comparing outside and inside prices. All the items she cited, she says the discount was too small. OK.. now, when she gets to pots and pans, it turned out the calc was almost 50% off, she blankly says "yea, not enough. Not worth it"... i almost burst out laughing. Ahh well, people that likes to complain, have a very selective way of looking at things. The stubbornness really can be quite funny.

[chadjustine]

Even more funny about story is that one lady in that story was comparing outside and inside prices. All the items she cited, she says the discount was too small. OK.. now, when she gets to pots and pans, it turned out the calc was almost 50% off, she blankly says "yea, not enough. Not worth it"... i almost burst out laughing. Ahh well, people that likes to complain, have a very selective way of looking at things. The stubbornness really can be quite funny.

Exactly. That was one of the points I made up above. Some people you CANT make happy, no matter what you do.

[stanley4habs]

My wife and I have been members since 2001. We did not own one piece of furniture and we had just purchased a home at the time. We saved a substantial amount of money on everything from appliances to home furniture, and even a kitchen.
The trick here is to have a major need as some of the other members have pointed out. Here' are two points to consider before becoming a member:
1)If you are patient and want to save money then its worth it. If you are the type who needs it now, forget about it. Some furniture we ordered took 8 weeks to come in. 2)If you like upper mid to high end product, then I recommend you consider becoming a member. If you prefer to buy low to mid priced items dont bother. We compared many items such as electronics and cheaper furniture for our little boy and there are retailers that can beat these prices easily. However if you want brand name items, such as speakers, or furniture or appliances (we bought our higher end kitchen aid appliances and saved close to $5000) then again in our opinion its worth it. The key here is you save in the long run. Plus retailers make typically more margin on some of the higher priced items, like appliances or furniture. We really were shocked at the differences in the pricing on furniture like Kincaid, Kohler bath items, or even Bose speakers. Here's a tip if you do become a member, we always go to see the items at a retailer before purchasing them at the Direct Buy.
Good luck...this is a true and honest opinion from someone who has taken advantage of becoming a member. If you are not going to spend over 15K on home purchases over a few years I probably wouldn't bother.

[whodaphucru]

[QUOTE=chadjustine;8752020]Exactly. That was one of the points I made up above. Some people you CANT make happy, no matter what you do.[/QUO

If you shop around, negotiate well and look for sales you can do just as well without the ridiculous membership fee. The comparisons are always to MSRP and nobody pays MSRP. If it was such a great deal why the sleezy high pressure sales tactics and why the the lack of transparency?

[chadjustine]

The comparisons are always to MSRP and nobody pays MSRP.

Nope. The prices that I have put in my posts are regular prices from actual stores that I have been in.

The comparison I made of the fridge was a fridge at Future Shop.
The prices I put for the windows were quotes that I got from 3 local companies.

Keep grasping though.

[patrob]

We had purchased all our bathroom/kitchen plumbing fixtures/sinks at DB & I made sure I compared my prices before I placed the order. There were no service charges/handling fees added to any of those items, just straight cost & all items were cheaper than elsewhere. We did our custom kitchen through DB & saved quite a lot there too! So the membership fee we paid, more than paid for itself couple of times ;) My mom was looking for a particular Ashley Furniture wall unit & she looked everywhere to get the best deal (& I mean everywhere:D for couple of months) I got a quote from DB for the same unit & the saving was $1K after all fees & taxes, so she was very happy :)

There will always be people who think that DB is a scam but it's NOT! Yes, their sales tactics stink & that turns off a lot of people. But DB still works for many, many people. It's people who join for the wrong reasons that complain :rolleyes: DB is not for everybody.

[coolspot]

The shower doors were for a 48" x 36" stall and are 72" high. I'm pretty sure they are the 10mm and not the 8mm doors as well.

Is the door 48x36, or smaller? I'm getting a custom door made by a reputable fabricatior in Markham for ~680.00, tax inclusive including a 18" towel bar mounted on the door. However, my door is smaller, only 68" x 24". So a larger door, like your size would be roughly the same price at DirectBuy, but custom made.



The comparison I made of the fridge was a fridge at Future Shop.
The prices I put for the windows were quotes that I got from 3 local companies.

Futureshop is not the cheapest place to be buying appliances unless they're on sale. An appliance store can do much better.

[grant]

Here' are two points to consider before becoming a member:
1)If you are patient and want to save money then its worth it. If you are the type who needs it now, forget about it. Some furniture we ordered took 8 weeks to come in. 2)If you like upper mid to high end product, then I recommend you consider becoming a member. If you prefer to buy low to mid priced items dont bother.
Stanley that is a great message so I'm quoting you on it.

obviously lots of people are happy with their direct buy memberships ... if they are using it to buy items that make sense.

[chadjustine]

Is the door 48x36, or smaller? I'm getting a custom door made by a reputable fabricatior in Markham for ~680.00, tax inclusive including a 18" towel bar mounted on the door. However, my door is smaller, only 68" x 24". So a larger door, like your size would be roughly the same price at DirectBuy, but custom made.


Futureshop is not the cheapest place to be buying appliances unless they're on sale. An appliance store can do much better.


For your first point, Im not actually sure if they do "custom" sizes to be honest. I never asked. I would imagine you could order them but I really dont know. We only looked at standard sizes. Sorry I could be of more help.

For your second point, fair enough. While I responding, I just happened to be on the future shop site (in another window). Bottom line is everything that I have mentioned in my posts, are prices that I shopped around for in various stores, NOT MSRP.

[s1301950]

For your first point, Im not actually sure if they do "custom" sizes to be honest. I never asked. I would imagine you could order them but I really dont know. We only looked at standard sizes. Sorry I could be of more help.

For your second point, fair enough. While I responding, I just happened to be on the future shop site (in another window). Bottom line is everything that I have mentioned in my posts, are prices that I shopped around for in various stores, NOT MSRP.

Actually, no, i would say Futureshop price is just a little over fair, if not very fair in compared to the market price (not msrp) Their purchasing department do their research. They know if they are overcharging, how much profit they can afford to put out there. Seriously, i don't know about toronto, so i don't know if there are specialized appliance stores out there, that can sell less than futureshop. But in Ottawa, try compare FS with, brick, universal appliance, etc etc. Prices for Washer/dryer, fridge, dishwasher, stove, etc are quite comparable in FS. So using FS to compare is reasonable i'd say.

Seriously, if you have an appliance store that can beat FS appliance price across the board, please name the store. I'd love to go there and shop around.

[chadjustine]

Actually, no, i would say Futureshop price is just a little over fair, if not very fair in compared to the market price (not msrp) Their purchasing department do their research. They know if they are overcharging, how much profit they can afford to put out there. Seriously, i don't know about toronto, so i don't know if there are specialized appliance stores out there, that can sell less than futureshop. But in Ottawa, try compare FS with, brick, universal appliance, etc etc. Prices for Washer/dryer, fridge, dishwasher, stove, etc are quite comparable in FS. So using FS to compare is reasonable i'd say.

Seriously, if you have an appliance store that can beat FS appliance price across the board, please name the store. I'd love to go there and shop around.

I'm not sure how the prices are now but Corbeil used to be pretty good.

[DealMakerLoverBreaker]

The expose was done with 3 or 4 unhappy former members. Lets find out the ratio of happy customers vs. unhappy customers then make an expose about that. No? Why not? Because that wouldnt sell.

The bottom line is that generally, most people dont voice their happiness with companies/services. But they sure do piss and moan when things go wrong. Every single store or business has unhappy customers. There is not ONE that doesnt. Sure, DB may have quite a few complaints but again, take that comparison to how many are happy. The more customers you serve, the more there is a chance to have unhappy people. Its just the law of numbers. Some people you just CANT make happy, no matter what you do. My guess is that most of these complaints come from people who didnt inform themselves enough. That is purely speculation on my part mind you.

I will give you the sign up pressure tactics. They certainly shouldnt be doing that. But, from what I know, it didnt always use to be like that. They DID have a "sure, go home and think about it policy" until people started going to retail stores and demanding the same discounts as DB. When that started happening, they changed the policy.

I will give you that the customer service, after the fact, its occasionally sketchy from time to time. I have had good service and bad service. But how does that differ from any other store? I cant remember the last time I went into Canadian Tire and received help from someone who was at least awake, let alone had a clue about any of their products. You can argue that the membership fees of DB should be enough that they should throw themselves at your feet but I disagree. Their service SHOULD be better than what it is but then again, the whole service industry in Canada stinks. Clothing retail is largely full of smart-allecky teenage kids who are working mostly for beer money. The food industry is much the same. Look at our Telco companies (Rogers, Bell, Telus) .. their service is terrible and probably the worst across the board.

As for the "questionable" benefits? I disagree completely. Yes, there are a FEW items that come out to close to even and a FEW that come out to more (with shipping and handling and blah blah). I cant deny it nor will I try to. But out of the, literally, tens of thousands of items that they sell, how is that SUCH a horrible thing? What about the manufacturers that dont have any shipping/handling charges at all? What about the fridge that costs $3799 (almost 4300 with taxes) in the stores but is $2658 (about 3100 with taxes) at DB. Oh no, but they are charging you $200 shipping. Heavens to betsy .. now you only save $1K instead of 1200.

DB is certainly not a perfect business. Not even close. But this expose makes them out to be two steps away from Nazi's.

Well first i have to say that you present your position and points very well which makes your posts very credible. As I'm not a member I'm unable to present a completely fair evaluation of DB, but can only base my biased opinion on what I hear and how their program works. With that said, I can see how DB can possibly save people money who plan to make large purchases and that can be a good thing and possibly big savings if you spend a ton...

But a couple things about the concept and them still bother me. First it seems to me that paying so much up front is a big risk for a couple reasons such as:
1. your restricted to selecting from them(I obviously don't know how many manufacturers they have to chose from but what if you find a product elsewhere that you like more that DB doesn't have?)
2. Something in your life changes and you are unable to proceed with plans to purchase items (Now this argument doesn't make sense if the expectation is that most people upon buying the membership expect to spend a large amount +$10k soon after obtaining membership).
3. If the customer service is bad, then its gonna suck haven't to tell with them for the purchase of so many items. I agree that other places are bad too such as Cdn Tire and Rogers(I bloody have to call them every month to correct my bills) but I tend to get good service from furniture and appliance stores.

Hey I just bought some appliances. Would love to know how much I could have saved at DB.

Whirlpool laundry set 9200 series
Jenn air Nat gas downdraft convection oven(don't know model off hand)

[fajer]

Well first i have to say that you present your position and points very well which makes your posts very credible. As I'm not a member I'm unable to present a completely fair evaluation of DB, but can only base my biased opinion on what I hear and how their program works. With that said, I can see how DB can possibly save people money who plan to make large purchases and that can be a good thing and possibly big savings if you spend a ton...

But a couple things about the concept and them still bother me. First it seems to me that paying so much up front is a big risk for a couple reasons such as:
1. your restricted to selecting from them(I obviously don't know how many manufacturers they have to chose from but what if you find a product elsewhere that you like more that DB doesn't have?)
2. Something in your life changes and you are unable to proceed with plans to purchase items (Now this argument doesn't make sense if the expectation is that most people upon buying the membership expect to spend a large amount +$10k soon after obtaining membership).
3. If the customer service is bad, then its gonna suck haven't to tell with them for the purchase of so many items. I agree that other places are bad too such as Cdn Tire and Rogers(I bloody have to call them every month to correct my bills) but I tend to get good service from furniture and appliance stores.

Hey I just bought some appliances. Would love to know how much I could have saved at DB.

Whirlpool laundry set 9200 series
Jenn air Nat gas downdraft convection oven(don't know model off hand)

The prices at DB are wholesale prices - so it would be cheaper.

[chadjustine]

Well first i have to say that you present your position and points very well which makes your posts very credible. As I'm not a member I'm unable to present a completely fair evaluation of DB, but can only base my biased opinion on what I hear and how their program works. With that said, I can see how DB can possibly save people money who plan to make large purchases and that can be a good thing and possibly big savings if you spend a ton...

But a couple things about the concept and them still bother me. First it seems to me that paying so much up front is a big risk for a couple reasons such as:
1. your restricted to selecting from them(I obviously don't know how many manufacturers they have to chose from but what if you find a product elsewhere that you like more that DB doesn't have?)
2. Something in your life changes and you are unable to proceed with plans to purchase items (Now this argument doesn't make sense if the expectation is that most people upon buying the membership expect to spend a large amount +$10k soon after obtaining membership).
3. If the customer service is bad, then its gonna suck haven't to tell with them for the purchase of so many items. I agree that other places are bad too such as Cdn Tire and Rogers(I bloody have to call them every month to correct my bills) but I tend to get good service from furniture and appliance stores.

Hey I just bought some appliances. Would love to know how much I could have saved at DB.

Whirlpool laundry set 9200 series
Jenn air Nat gas downdraft convection oven(don't know model off hand)


Wow, thank you. Thats very kind of you to say (your first part). I tend to get a little snarky in my posts sometimes so Im glad I didnt come across as a d*ck :P

For your points:

1) Yes, thats true. You have to choose from the manufacturer list that they have. They certainly dont have everything (like Sony Canada is not available, for example). However, they DO have over 8000 manufacturers. So its a double edged sword I suppose. MOST people could find something comparable. Ex: if you are looking for a whirlpool laundry set but DB doesnt have Whirlpool (they do, Im just saying), then most people would able to choose something comparable from Maytag, LG, Samsung, Frigidare, GE, Inglis, Jenn Air, Kitchen Aid, AEG, Amana, etc, etc. But you are correct in that if a person is heartset on Whirlpool, they would be SOL.

2) Fair enough. That is pretty valid. But, I suppose thats no different than getting a big new promotion at work, buying a new car and new house, and then getting fired or whatever. Of course, you can always sell a house/car and not terminate the contract at DB. That is one of the things I dislike about DB.

3) The customer service is touch and go. YMMV. Sometimes I have wanted to kill the people Im talking to. Other times they have been really helpful. IT seems like there is no middle ground though. The people are who are helpful are really awesome and helpful. The people who suck, REALLLLLLY suck.

As for the items you just purchased, I wont give exact prices BUT generally, most items are at least 42% or so (off regular store prices - sale prices are a bit less obviously).

[Deal4US]

We had purchased all our bathroom/kitchen plumbing fixtures/sinks at DB & I made sure I compared my prices before I placed the order. There were no service charges/handling fees added to any of those items, just straight cost & all items were cheaper than elsewhere. We did our custom kitchen through DB & saved quite a lot there too! So the membership fee we paid, more than paid for itself couple of times ;) My mom was looking for a particular Ashley Furniture wall unit & she looked everywhere to get the best deal (& I mean everywhere:D for couple of months) I got a quote from DB for the same unit & the saving was $1K after all fees & taxes, so she was very happy :)

There will always be people who think that DB is a scam but it's NOT! Yes, their sales tactics stink & that turns off a lot of people. But DB still works for many, many people. It's people who join for the wrong reasons that complain :rolleyes: DB is not for everybody.



Agreed, I'm a member for the last 8 years or more, during the 8 years, bought and sold 2 new houses, all the appliances and furnitures are purchased from DB. with all the furnitures (debooer sp?) and appliances (tasco) etc. we visit, none of them can beat DB manufacturer price.
I saved at lease 2-3 times the cost mof membership.

[JoeMir]

what i'm wondering is....is there a limit to what you wanna buy? for instance would i be able to buy 3 stoves 3 fridges etc etc....

[chadjustine]

what i'm wondering is....is there a limit to what you wanna buy? for instance would i be able to buy 3 stoves 3 fridges etc etc....

No limit at all. You can buy whatever you want in any quantity you want at any time you want (well, within store hours anyway).

[JoeMir]

No limit at all. You can buy whatever you want in any quantity you want at any time you want (well, within store hours anyway).

ok because a friend of mine just joined and we wanted to get the appliances off them since its much cheaper so we were wondering if there was a limit. See for us it wouldnt be worth it since we only need our major appliances but for someone like him who is renovating his entire home, it's worth it.

[chadjustine]

ok because a friend of mine just joined and we wanted to get the appliances off them since its much cheaper so we were wondering if there was a limit. See for us it wouldnt be worth it since we only need our major appliances but for someone like him who is renovating his entire home, it's worth it.

Woah dont say that on these forums. You're likely to get called an idiot or a fool.

For sure you can do that though. In fact, my parents are in the market for a washer and dryer and are shopping around. When they find the ones they want, we are going to order for them.

[JoeMir]

Woah dont say that on these forums. You're likely to get called an idiot or a fool.

For sure you can do that though. In fact, my parents are in the market for a washer and dryer and are shopping around. When they find the ones they want, we are going to order for them.


lol called an idiot for admitting it's cheaper for appliances? lol...ok i guess i'm an idiot lol

Now another ?...what is the shipping charge? i heard you have to pay a shipping charge for each individual item? is this true? and if so how much is it?

[chadjustine]

lol called an idiot for admitting it's cheaper for appliances? lol...ok i guess i'm an idiot lol

Now another ?...what is the shipping charge? i heard you have to pay a shipping charge for each individual item? is this true? and if so how much is it?

No. Get called an idiot for liking direct buy and not thinking its a total scam by a secret society ... or some inane retardedness like that.

It really depends on the manufacturer. Some dont make you pay shipping. Some dont make you pay it if it goes to a local showroom.

When we bought our bathroom tiles from Ceratec (here in Ottawa), there was no shipping as we got it sent to a Ceratec store and picked it up there. I would imagine that on two big appliances, it would probably be $50 each. But I cant be sure at all.

[j8lam]

Does Direct Buy carry all models of Napoleon and Weber BBQs? It's tough getting much off MSRP on higher end bbqs.

[patrob]

Does Direct Buy carry all models of Napoleon and Weber BBQs? It's tough getting much off MSRP on higher end bbqs.

Yes, DB carries all models of Napoleon & most Weber bbq's (not sure if all models). They also carry Broil Mate, Vermont Casting & Lynx.

We got our Napoleon grill there & the price was the lowest after researching everywhere :D

[d-licious]

My parents have this membership and I use it. Agreed that it's a ridiculous membership fee but then it drops significantly. Probably not worth it unless you're buying lots of stuff.

Having said that, I just bought an awesome bedroom set from them. I called around to get tons of quotes before I bought it; DirectBuy was the best deal. From a little furniture distributor, the set would have cost me approx $7,500. From The Bay, with 25% off and another 10% off, the set would have cost me $5,700. From Direct Buy, it cost me $3,800 all in.

YAY! :lol:

The next thing I might buy from them is the Samsung LED HDTV. It looks like it's approx $3,600-$4,000 at Futureshop/BestBuy. $2,700 at DirectBuy. We'll see what kind of handling charges they'll add though.

[robster77]

http://www.cbc.ca/marketplace/2009/the_price_cut_promise/main.html

[chadjustine]

http://www.cbc.ca/marketplace/2009/the_price_cut_promise/main.html

And what a piece of unbiased reporting THAT is.

Same 'ol, same 'ol.

[robster77]

I think you mean "biased" reporting. They did present happy customers on there as well. I personally found it an interesting piece. The hidden camera shows some of the sales tactics. The owner that they interviewed seemed clueless.

[chadjustine]

I think you mean "biased" reporting. They did present happy customers on there as well. I personally found it an interesting piece. The hidden camera shows some of the sales tactics. The owner that they interviewed seemed clueless.

No I meant unbiased. It was sarcasm.

It was a lame piece centered on 3 former members who felt they were mistreated when I bet if ALL the information was given, (something these exposés DONT do), we'd probably see that they were idiots and didnt read the fine print or realize what they were getting themselves into.

I will give you that the owner did seem a wee spot ******** though.

[robster77]

Ahh. Unless you're doing major renos or moving into a new house, I personally don't see the benefit. But you're right, other than the woman from Calgary, the others unhappy customers seemed clueless as well. Bottom line folks, if you're not comfortable in signing off on it, then don't.

[chadjustine]

Ahh. Unless you're doing major renos or moving into a new house, I personally don't see the benefit. But you're right, other than the woman from Calgary, the others unhappy customers seemed clueless as well. Bottom line folks, if you're not comfortable in signing off on it, then don't.


THATS the thing. You have to be doing a lot of work for it to be worth it.

We are doing:
- replacing the windows in the house
- remodeling two bathrooms
- remodeling a basement
- bedroom set for the master bedroom
- bedroom set for guest room
- living room set
- appliances

We have already saved pretty close to the membership cost in about a year, just on the windows and two bathrooms alone. There are a few people on here who will say "oh but thats based on MSRP prices" and no, its not. Everything we have purchased there, we have shopped around for sales and such. The prices are direct buy are about, on average, 35% lower than most stores regular prices and about 25% lower then most stores sales prices.

The biggest issue with DB is the delivery times. We just had to buy a new washer and dryer as ours broke. We werent planning on changing them until next year and go with all 6 (fridge, stove, washer, dryer, dishwasher, microwave) at the same time from Direct Buy. Unfortunately, we couldnt wait 4 - 6 weeks to get our new ones through DB so we bought them locally. We bought an LG washer and dryer from Corbeil. I dont have the model on me right now but we shopped around (Corbeil, Future Shop, Sears, Home Depot, etc, etc) and they were the cheapest. We got a pretty good deal on them and when we got home, we checked the DB website and we would have saved an additional $450 on the pair (on top of the sale price that we got them for ... which was, I believe, $350 of the regular price).

When we shopped for the glass shower doors for our ensuite bathroom. We shopped around to quite a few bathroom places as well as home improvement stores. Generally, the range for 48"l * 36"w * 72"h 10mm shower doors was anywhere between $1500 - $2100 (I was surprised at the big range). Anywho, we got ours for $930 taxes and delivery included.

So its not for everyone, thats for sure. But those who say its a scam are clearly missing some information.

[chadjustine]

When we did the windows on the front of the house (8 windows - one of which was the living room window that is quite big - 72x60), we shopped around for quotes. The cheapest we found was $7k by a local window dude.

We got the windows installed and delivered for $4.2K.

[Cough]

Like most except Chad I am really wary about DirectBuy.

Right now they have a ""free"" offer of 30 day membership (http://www.directbuyfreeoffer.ca/)

Just fill in the form below to receive your free information packet to the DirectBuy Club in your area. You'll receive a FREE copy of the Insider's Guide to Buying Direct, packed full with information retailers don't want you to know. You'll also receive a FREE Visitor's Pass with a map to the DirectBuy Club nearest you. In addition, as part of this special offer, you'll also receive a 30-Day FREE Membership Certificate so you can enjoy access to the direct insider prices - without the hidden markups - like hundreds of thousands of DirectBuy Club members already do. This offer is risk-free. So act now.

I couldnt read the small print on the very small JPG on their site
http://www.directbuyfreeoffer.ca/Template08/img/30daytrial2.jpg

I suspect a trap. I will endure the 1 1/2 hour b/s if I really get an unlimited no strings attached no payment in advance one month membership to really evaluate them. I would even come back here and report with integrity and reputation.

But, am I going to find that the free month is actually "sign up $7000 for one year and we'll give you 13 months for the price of 12" or something along those lines?

While I am sure there will be some opinions, if anyone has the specific facts on this one month free membership I would be very grateful - post or PM

Thanks

[johnboy]

The selling tactics trying to make you sign up for membership alone is enough for me to say to hell with them.

[Sire]

I've been curious to find out more about DB for years but never really had the time to fully investigate it. The few things that I have come across from time to time including this forum does not give me a good impression of the company...like most time-share outfits. I guess the old saying that if your gut says "this is probably too good to be true"...it probably is.

The thing is with me, I would rather pay more for something, thinking that I paid what I paid, than thinking that I saved when really I paid more - when you take into consideration all of the fees and surcharges. :D

[busakap]

so let's say i joined and wanted kitchen cabinets (high end kitchen), i pick what i want out of a brochure? do they send somebody out to measure my kitchen? do they install? is anybody there to answer questions?

same question about california shutters, if i wanted to get them from directbuy whats the process?

i guess my question is do they just supply the materials and you have to supply your own labour or do they have contractors?

[AMIRALI76]

so let's say i joined and wanted kitchen cabinets (high end kitchen), i pick what i want out of a brochure? do they send somebody out to measure my kitchen? do they install? is anybody there to answer questions?

same question about california shutters, if i wanted to get them from directbuy whats the process?

i guess my question is do they just supply the materials and you have to supply your own labour or do they have contractors?

I know that for the kitchen they charge $650 for the designer to come and measure and this price include the first design + 2 times revision on that.

[patrob]

so let's say i joined and wanted kitchen cabinets (high end kitchen), i pick what i want out of a brochure? do they send somebody out to measure my kitchen? do they install? is anybody there to answer questions?

same question about california shutters, if i wanted to get them from directbuy whats the process?

i guess my question is do they just supply the materials and you have to supply your own labour or do they have contractors?

We went through the whole process of ordering our kitchen cabinets from DB & they do have some samples but you can also go to other dealers that carry that particular manufacturer to see even more samples. They do send somebody to measure your kitchen & you work with a kitchen designer & yes they answer all your questions. Same with shutters, they will send somebody to measure & you can hire their recommended contractor. But we did not get our shutters from DB.

[patrob]

I know that for the kitchen they charge $650 for the designer to come and measure and this price include the first design + 2 times revision on that.

Back when we did our kitchen we paid around $250 for the designer but I remember they increased that fee just after we did our kitchen.

[Gebraroest]

I would like to know more on this free membership also

[TheCheez]

Bit of a thread resurrection but they've changed their promotion recently.

I went looking: here is the fine print on their 30 day free trial:

"DirectBuy Club’s Free 30-Day Trial Offer provides purchasing privileges of up to $1,000 from select suppliers for 30 days from your open house visit."

I imagine it comes with extra doses of high pressure sales too.