What's The Deal? Are These Common "Specials" Really Worth The Money?
When it comes to home purchases, everyone wants to find the best possible deal. After all, who wants to pay more for something than they have to?? Unfortunately, this chase of the lowest price tag could leave you with poor quality work or materials that will wear out quickly, costing you more money in replacements over time. Dickens Plumbing Inc. believes in doing honest, quality work at an affordable price, and we want our clients to know when they're truly getting a good deal. Do you know what to watch for when you see advertisements for something new in 2022?
Here are some tips to help!
Free Installation Isn't Always Free
Many big box stores offer "free" installation on carpet, lighting, or appliances. Unfortunately, that "savings" is often rolled into the item, inflating the cost and leaving you paying more for lower quality. What's more, they often require expensive (and unnecessary) "accessory" packages for installation of appliances, knocking the cost up even more. Instead of falling for free installation, visit some of your local outlet stores or nearby showrooms. You can often get a lower price on better-quality items. Then, contact a local contractor (like Dickens Plumbing) to take care of installation and provide you with peace of mind, bonding, and insurance on the work done!
Be Wary of The Scratch and Dent Section
Some items in the scratch and dent section of your local stores truly are a gem find, but others? Not so much. Refrigerators and freezers specifically warrant an extra close examination before you say yes. These items can become easily damaged if turned sideways or upside down too long, or if jostled too much during shipping and handling. Since the items in these areas are often returned, they've been taken to (and from) someone's home, and that travel comes with risks. Be sure to get a good, hands-on look before you buy, and always feel free to ask questions of your sales associate. If they hesitate to answer, you're usually better to walk away.
Don't Assume That Cheaper Means Better
Many companies are advertising heavily at the beginning of a new year. While these new pop-up businesses might have fancy postcards or free refrigerator magnets, do they have the experience and reputation backing up their name? These companies might offer cheaper pricing on plumbing, paint, or roofing, but if they don't have the necessary skills, equipment, or insurance, you could end up holding a BIG bill with nothing to show for it. Instead, get at least 3 quotes from local companies before you hire anyone to do a job in your home. Look for years of experience and insurance options, ask for references, and don't always settle for the cheapest price up front.
If you need home plumbing services, look no further than Dickens Plumbing Inc. We provide a wide variety of services for residences in and around the greater Winter Haven area. No job is too big or too small. Call for your FREE estimate!