photo by Clif Burns
“Dear PoPville,
We’re looking to replace our refrigerator, specifically, but it could be any appliance.
Can anyone recommend quality appliance vendors that 1) made a careful assessment and solid measurements of the space (it’s for a CapHill row house); 2) didn’t make you feel like they upcharged you an exorbitant
amount on the appliance itself when you later found it at Lowes (or anywhere) for $X dollars less; and 3)
where you felt they were presenting you with the full slate of options and their recommendation was based purely on quality and how well it fits your space and needs, and not some financial motive?
I don’t have a foundation for these fears except that the range of appliance and vendor options are many, the quality of manufacturers and vendors can vary greatly, the purchase will be semi-permanent, and one will pay a pretty penny. I am happy to pay for service, which is to say I am not angling for ‘free installation’ promotions or any sweeteners, but I also don’t want to feel like I am being taken advantage of and most of all I don’t want to regret any purchase or decision. It may be that I’m just too much of a newbie at this and these concerns are irrational, but people buy cars more frequently than they do refrigerators so I feel like I am flailing about a bit as I try to weigh my options against all the variables.
Any tips or pointers would be much appreciated.”