Real Consumer Reviews and Ratings
Direct Buy Reviews and Ratings
Consumer Ratings - Page 13 of 24
I luv DB
4/14/2007 - Christine of Massachusetts, USA writes:
I have been a member since 2003 and wouldn't shop any other way. I agree that the upfront membership is steep, but for that you get great prices, quality items and a huge selection. I have furnished most of my house and have been able to afford quality that I would not have had otherwise. Yes, I often check out sales and outlets looking for better deals, but I can't find exactly what I want and the goods are often damaged or floor samples. At DB, I always know that I am getting new, first quality name brand merchandise at a great price. I am in the process of remodeling a kitchen and have already saved over $20k in materials. I have quality cabinets and a countertop I would never have been able to afford at a kitchen showroom. Apparently it's not for everyone, but I woudn't shop any other way.
It's a really great deal
4/12/2007 - Jennifer of Texas, USA writes:
I think that the people who have negative reviews were either at a bad franchise or didn't do their homework before. For example, our built in fridge there is around 5600, we paid 6500 at the appliance place, and that was a good deal. My light fixture I paid $650 for was $310. Even with the 8% and charges it is cheaper (also the additional money you save by paying taxes on a less expensive product.) The center here let me cruise around the showroom for over an hour before I signed the contract. If you aren't going to be spending a lot of money on items, then of course you are not going to be saving as much. Our window coverings alone will pay for our membership for the full 10 years of membership! There is the least amount of markup in items that are replaced often, ie small appliances, etc. the most markup is in furniture, window coverings, accesories.
Single Members pay same as Married
4/12/2007 - Betty of Washington DC, USA writes:
As a single person I had to pay the same membership fee as a Married couple, but I could not have a secondary person even if we live in the same household. We're building a house together and anything I want them to look at too I have to schedule to take home or have them look at same elsewhere, which wastes time when attempting to order anything.
Denied Access due to Child
4/10/2007 - Chris of Alabama, USA writes:
I called the number that was given during the infomercial. Directbuy made a few phone calls as late as 8:30 (which is late with a toddler) until I was able to talk with someone. When I did talk to someone they told me that they had a few vacancies for open houses and gave me the dates. Then they told me that I would have to find a babysitter for my son because he was not allowed on my first visit. This is an impossible task due to the fact that his mother is deceased and I have no family close by. As an added problem the only times they had available were at night when daycare is closed. The amazing thing was that they did not even care that they were missing out on a sale when I told them that it was impossible for me to come without my son. Not a family friendly place if you ask me!
Too much fees for membership fees
4/10/2007 - Kumar of Washington, USA writes:
My Wife and I went to their open house the other night. The sales men were forcing us to switch off the cell phone even whn I told that I was on a international call but after every 1 minute the salesamn was asking me to stop speaking even though I was standing in a corner without disturbing anyone . Everything they said seem to make logical sense buying things at cost, not paying huge mark-ups, Then the enrollment fee will cost $5450 with $160 per year after the 2nd year. To top it off, we had to either join now or never. we felt that membership fees was tooooo high. so we left. The next day I did some research on the company and found all these reviews with similar experiences. Though I regret missing my international call but now i feel that we've saved not only $5450 but also lot of other pains which I would have endured if i had joined.
This Must Be A Sham
4/9/2007 - Bruce of Nevada, USA writes:
I attended one of their open houses-or should I say that I tried to attend. My wife's name was on the "invitation" along with mine. The salesman declined to give me the pitch without my wife present. When I told him that would not be possible, he still refused, ushered me to the door and told me to "have a nice day". I tried to find a phone number to register my displeasure. Though there are addresses to be had, the phone numbers don't appear!?? I can only conclude that the high pressure pitch needed both husband and wife to agree on the purchase right then and there. This is no way to run a legitimate business.
Dodged a Bullet
4/9/2007 - Jason of Maryland, USA writes:
Wife and I went to their open house the other night. Initially everything they said seem to make logical sense...buying things at cost, not paying huge mark-ups, that sort of thing. Then they dropped the bomb, enrollment fee will cost $4350 with $160 per year after the 2nd year. To top it off, we had to either join now or never be able to come back (not even the 7 years as indicated by some of the other reviews). We tried to tell the salesman that it's crazy to expect people to make such decision without giving them time to think it over. Ultimately, we decided that anytime anyone tells you now or never without giving you a chance to think it through is never good so we left. The next day I did some research on the company and found all these reviews with similar experiences. After reading a few, I felt like we've just dodged a $4350 bullet.
don't do it!
4/7/2007 - Anonymous of Virginia, USA writes:
I just left the high pressured sales pitch before being privy to this site. I'm sorry I did not do my homework first. I was afraid not to be invited back if I did not join today and I feel there is no way I will be able to save what I lost today. They had none of the names I had researched, but did not know that until I paid the money. I feel very stupid right now!
Good but not for everyone
4/6/2007 - Erick of North Carolina, USA writes:
I have been a member for 8 years and have saved a lot of money. You have to do your research, not every item is a great deal. I didn't like the hard sell at the open house. I only recommend joining if you are going to be spending a lot of money, otherwise there is no way you can recoup your initial investment. It does surprise me that so many people have a problem with the company, do your research before joining and don't be bullied into something that is in your best interest.
Come very prepared
4/6/2007 - Ed of New York, USA writes:
WE came in with an open mind. We came prepared with some model numbers, since we are spending $35,000 in bath and kitchen remodeling. There are savings, but I could only see 10-15% on our project, vs. the 30% claimed. Then consider delivery delays and not being able to see product. Appliances were actually not great compared to our local small store, especially when you factor in cost of shipping and set up at your home. Also, consider the value of local support, if there are problems. Remember, if you invest $4,500 (upfront fee) wisely today, plus factor in their additonal annual fees, you'll have $12-15,000 in 10 years. So you should be saving $3,000 each year to make it worth it. They do have many manufacturers though, so be ready look at many catalogs and come prepared with your model #s and prices. Let's face it, the rule of sign up tonight or we can't talk to you for 7 years, is BS.
Advise extreme caution
4/5/2007 - Gerry of Ontario, Canada writes:
I joined Direct Buy two years ago, and wish I didn't. Cons: $4500 to join; $200 a year afterwards; poor selection; limited hours to view the manufacturers books; crowded in book room; online catalogue confusing; 4 to 6 weeks wait for items; full cash up front when ordering items; Usually being a careful buyer and negotiator you can get the same stuff at close to the "members price". Pros: If you are a knowledgeable renovator, know exactly what you want, are going to spend over $3000 a year on items for 10 years, then its okay. Otherwise wait! Especially since they tell you, you either sign up tonight or never. Until then, enjoy looking around for specials, and shopping in the different places. Once you join this club you with end up in a small room, trying to make that money you spent for the membership worth it, with the look of regret on your face with most of the people in there.
Evil outfit
4/5/2007 - Leslie of Idaho, USA writes:
Stay away from Direct Buy. It is nothing but a scam. So many people including us have been suckered in, and this outfit should be shut down and arrests made.
Great for some, not for all
4/4/2007 - Nick of Colorado, USA writes:
Wow! All of the negatives got real ratings and the positives get fake? Whats wrong with you people? Can't have your own opinions or just only want to think the worse? I've been using DirectBuy for over 7 years. They can't save you on everything but the majority has savings. Don't knock it until you try it. It seems the people giving negative feedback joined and didn't even use the service. Would you join a gym and not work-out? If you join, use it or it will be a waste of money. If you are planning a major project, I highly recommend it. But, if you live in a tent on the side of a mountain and only buying a two slice toaster, don't!
Worth it IF you are doing major renovations..
4/4/2007 - Cari of California, USA writes:
My husband and I signed up for DB and have been very happy with the service and help we have recieved from their in house design consultants. It takes a while to get used to the way you search and order things but we have been very happy with them as we are literally rebuilding a home from the foundation up. For major renovations and purchases like furnatire, kitchen cabinets, flooring and window treatments it does save you $$$. Did not like the high pressure sales pitch but we don't have any regrets.
Not worth the trouble
4/4/2007 - Jan of New Jersey, USA writes:
My husband and I succumbed to the high pressure sales tactics and signed a membership w/ Direct Buy. We are doing a remodel of our home and have bought various household and retail products there. If i had to make the decision all over again i would definitely NOT do it. The savings definitely are not 30-40% as they say after you add in all their fees (handling, shipping, etc). You are lucky to save 5%-10% after all is said in done. The savings comes w/ extreme risk and inconvenience for the consumer: you have to pick up the product from the center, you can't return the products, the salespeople are not subject matter experts on the products, the hours are inconvenient, the service is poor and the process for ordering is archaic. Overall, it is a frustrating experience and not worth the trouble.
They create lots of badwill
4/3/2007 - Elisabeth of California, USA writes:
Pay $5,000 on a membership... right away? Forget it! No good salesperson would burn their bridges with future customers by telling them to join now or get lost. I was not allowed to look around the showroom . My pitchman directed me to a table , giving me the lowdown. I told him I'd never sign up without thinking it over. When I told the salesman anyone could reenter the store, because they had no way of tracking people (just a phone number and name--no driver's license or social security) he lost his people skills, reached over to my right breast and plucked the name tag off my shirt. I sent a complaint to a local news station, which investigates consumer complaints. I would never return to this company for a membership. They create lots of "badwill" with the public. What an odd business practice.
Be Smart
4/2/2007 - Anna-lisa of Ontario, Canada writes:
I have just been to a tour at Direct Buy Ottawa Location. A tad on the long side,the man was very fun to watch and answered all questions. The membership is 5 thou, there are several ways to pay.We started the tour around 7:30pm and we didn't leave until 10pm. We went with a list of items we were buying for our home. From fitness equipment to kitchen cabinets. The woman helped us find almost every item and showed us savings. Some items they didn't have but most they did. That sales lady stayed with us for 2.5 hrs just to help. We joined. Do your research! Don't sign unless you see saving's. Don't just buy a membership cause you feel pressured! Not all Direct Buy locations are the same, different owner's make different personality's. I enjoyed my experience at the Location in Ottawa.
Great so far!
4/1/2007 - Susan of New Jersey, USA writes:
My husband and I joined DirectBuy two years ago with the intention of remodeling our kitchen, which hasn't happened yet, but we have purchased quite a few items and been very pleased with the anount of money we have saved. We purchased our grandson's "big boy" bedroom set and our son in law's office desk, speakers and receiver last summer and saved over $2000. We did research before ordering the items and saw what retail prices were compared to Direct Buy, and they were much higher. With appliances you don't save as much below retail-maybe 10%, but on the other items you do. My husband is a contractor and is very pleased with the brands of kitchen cabinets and countertops that are offered, and we will purchase all our new kitchen items from Direct Buy. The initial cost is pricy and not everything saves as much money as they say, but overall, we are happy with our membership.
Don't By From Direct Buy!
4/1/2007 - M.J. of Michigan, USA writes:
I am a new member of Direct Buy. They claim you can save 40% - 50% on Furniture, but it only comes around 10% to barely 20%that's not ture. And that's not including the hefty membership fee they charge before you get anything. Their customer service is terrible. Some other things to think about:1-you need cash or credit card 2- unlike many stores,they don't offer fainancing.3- No refunds or returns (if don't like the product too bad)4- you will spend hours and hours to find the right product for the right price 5- membership fees are $5000.00 now. when I asked the salesperson she said any thing can be canceled, and they will make you sign quikly that you won't get a chance to read it, but the question should be, will I get my money back, and the answer is NO! I am going to report them to Better Business Bureau.
BEWARE DirectBuy
3/30/2007 - Lisa of Illinois, USA writes:
UPDATE: I joined DB, stupidly. It is the mistake that doesn't stop. I bought a bunch of stuff from Kohler. The toilet seat was supposed to be "soft-close", meaning that you can push it down with one finger and it will close by itself without having to worry about the seat or cover crashing down. Well, after a few months it stopped working. The mechanism broke. Direct Buy will not do anything to get me a refund or a new toilet seat. Stick to stores and pay with credit cards. I saved no money with DirectBuy because I did not buy 10s of thousands of dollars worth of stuff. And, the cabinets they sell are completely overprices.
