The Entertainer by Fleetwood

[Anne]

I'd like to know if anyone could tell me anything about these homes. Specifically the model #4723B. Is the quality of this new series better than the old ones? If not, if we put money into upgrades like flooring,insulation,roof pitch, etc., will we get a better home that will last? Has the quality/service of Fleetwood improved since it's involved in a lawsuit? I have read some of the horror stories about Fleetwood on this site. We have been searching for the perfect floorplan for over 2 years, with little success. In my opinion, there is very little quality in MH to be had in our area (Grand Rapids, MI area). Anything we find on the internet that we like is unavailable in MI. The only other manufacturer that is worth looking at in MI is Century, but they don't have a floor plan that will work for us, and is quite a drive to get to a dealer.
Also, I have read in the forums that we should try to negotiate on the price of the home. Can anyone tell us exactly how to "haggle" with a dealer? Neither my husband or I are good at this, actually useless is probably a better term!
I have already read all the negative stuff about Fleetwood, I would just like direct feedback as we have already decided on this model and are just 2-3 wks or less away from signing "on the dotted line". Also we don't have time to order Randy's books, read them, and understand them. We want to move into our new home in late July or early August, so we have to order the home within the next few weeks.
Any help is greatly appreciated. Thanx

[Travis]

Personally I would order Randy's books and since you are in a hurry to get the download version. This way you can have them within a few minutes. They are a good reference and resource. I don't think they are totally comprehensive but are a good guide. He points out things about how these homes are built that I assumed would be standard. His books are not very long and could be easily digested in one evening. It will be well worth your time to take one evening read, understand and then go look and negotiate. Also, you stated that neither you nor your husband are good at negotiating. This is another good reason to get the books is to learn what is a fair price, what is good and what is bad. His books will give you an idea about what to negotiate on. If you choose not to order the books then your best bet is to remember the old saying "you get what you pay for".
Any home could be turned into a great home with the correct amount of up grades. The fact remains that some companies will include these upgraded features as standard thereby minimizing the amount of money you would have to spend to have the same quality.

Good luck with such a quick decision.

[John]

By all means get both of Randy's books. They will help you greatly in your situation.I purchased the books and after reading them I knew what manufacturers to shun and which ones to check out for my needs. A little time spent and I have found my model. Much thanks to Randy and his books.