lowe's vs. local store

alissa2128

We are about to embark on our kitchen renovation, and we are currently debating between buying our cabinets from Lowe's or from a local kitchen store. They are the exact same cabinets, both stores carry the cabinet that we wanted. DH is installing cabinets himself, so the install is not a concern. Obviously a specific kitchen store is going to be a different experience, and will most likely provide better customer service, etc. But right now, Lowe's would be cheaper (although not a huge amount cheaper, but definitely cheaper).

I would prefer to go with the local store just because I would rather support local, small businesses rather than the big box stores. I guess I am wondering how much more you would be willing to spend to go with a specific kitchen store vs. big box store?

TIA!

dairygirl19

I buy a lot of local stuff, even though it costs a bit more.

Mainly because if I have a problem or an issue I can find the right person to direct my anger to...lol.

I just bought 4k worth of wilsonart countertops from a local kitchen design center/lumberyard.

It cost more but the project turned out to be a giant PITA. It was delayed 3xs due to damage and it still wasn't cut right. At least with a smaller store I could argue my point. They have seem to have more leeway with the customer service and discounts than a big box store. They also found the right people ASAP who could fix my problem. It seems like with a lot of Lowe's type places no one seems to ever know anyone or anything to help.

By the time it was said and done I was treated fair...word of mouth is a big deal and gossip travels fast.   They didn't want me complaining everywhere I'm sure. I also appreciate they hire local installers which in this small town I usually know them which makes me feel safer/more comfortable.

That and the nearest Lowe's or like is 50 miles from me...there's not much there to justify that sort of trip often.

Ginger Le Coeur

I would not be shy about getting estimates from both Lowes and the local place, including ETAs, and then sharing both estimates with the local business. Maybe they can make a deal with you... if not, and if the difference is more than $100.00 I would go with Lowes.

alissa2128

Ginger Le Coeur:

I would not be shy about getting estimates from both Lowes and the local place, including ETAs, and then sharing both estimates with the local business. Maybe they can make a deal with you... if not, and if the difference is more than $100.00 I would go with Lowes.

We've already done this. The local place was willing to meet us at the price that Lowe's quoted, but we are able to get a coupon at Lowe's for 10% off, and then we would purchase some gift cards online at a discount as well, which is what would make Lowe's cheaper. 

lachute

I'd ask them to price match especially if it isn't that much cheaper. 

Sweet Sadie Mae

Go with Lowes and save money. Buy all the extra little supplies at the mom and pop store so you'll still be supporting them.

brianabrad

Ginger Le Coeur:

I would not be shy about getting estimates from both Lowes and the local place, including ETAs, and then sharing both estimates with the local business. Maybe they can make a deal with you... if not, and if the difference is more than $100.00 I would go with Lowes.

Exactly what I was going to say. I would recommend getting quotes from both and trying to ask the local store to work with you. It's likely they will be more willing and able to come down on price than a corporate big box store would. Buying local is great but you have to remember the budget as well. 

Jim&Jaime

Keep in mind that the big box stores have a different quality than the locals on many things. DH's mom owns a hardware store, and he's in construction, and I was shocked to find out that the product you see at the hardware store for X price, was often slightly different at the big box to make you believe you're getting the same thing at a lower cost. 

Susie Derkins

I would go to a local store because I'd want to work with a designer -- not just the guy at the counter at Lowe's, but an NKBA certified kitchen designer.  I've seen the work they can do to rework a space to not just look better but also flow better, and it's worth it.  A kitchen might work "fine," and you can replace the cabinets to make it prettier, but that's only half of it.

grahamsm3

Sweet Sadie Mae:

Go with Lowes and save money. Buy all the extra little supplies at the mom and pop store so you'll still be supporting them.

I was thinking the opposite, buy big stuff at the local since they price matched, then use the Lowe's GCs to get the extras.

Sisugal

Local store!  Have you asked them to match Lowe's pricing or at least come down a bit on their price?

mrs.jacinthe

Local store.

Customer service at Lowe's and HD is a nightmare if there's a problem with a custom order.  Trust me.  It took me 6 WEEKS once to get ONE custom-ordered ceramic cabinet door pull.  And when it finally came, it was chipped.  And the guy at the customer service counter just shrugged it off.  Didn't offer a discount and looked at me like I had 3 heads when I asked for one due to the delay and the chip.