Palm Harbor adventure

[Tanya]

What an interesting day! We went to a PH dealer in Arizona today to look at some different models. We discovered, first of all, that looking at floorplans only simply doesn't work for us. Floorplans we thought we'd like by the looks of them, didn't work at all when we were actually in the model. Good news is, we discovered one we really love, called the Augusta!
Then we drove to an independant dealer who also had some PH models on their lot. What a lesson in the difference in quality the dealer can make for the same brand of home! On the PH-owned lots, the homes were put together beautifully and solidly with top of the line construction, that inspired complete faith in the company's ability to set a home up right. On the independent dealer's lot, however, they were literally thrown together, two halves of houses not meeting, homes still on wheels, cracks everywhere in the plaster,and other areas where walls, moldings etc. met, and even the construction was substandard. We swear they had rough-cut 2x3's on weight-bearing interior walls. One adorable little single wide was rocking so badly on it's foundation we thought it would tip over if we walked too far into the kitchen.
What an educational experience. Feel free to comment, one and all.

[rmurray]

I wonder why PH does not offer the Augusta in Augusta..??????..

You have found the difference in a professional dealer and one just out for the bucks...If a dealer cannot set up his inventory for display (this is his BEST effort to put his best foot forward)...what do you think he will do to your home after he has your money..

Good luck

[Tanya]

No kidding! Just curious, would a PH be covered under the same warranty if sold by and independent?

[jgn]

The manufacturer is the warranty but there are a number of items that are part of the setup and the factory does not warrant. Picking a dealer is as important as picking a manufacturer because you will need both of them to do their job. PH has a good reputation of suporting their product but be very carefull when selecting a dealer and if he cannot set up his own models correctly than think how he will set yours once he has your money. If you read the number of complaints about MH most are against the dealer and not the builder.

[Tanya]

Oh don't worry, we will be staying far away from that second dealership I mentioned! I just feel bad for the people who will probably get talked into buying from them!

[rmurray]

For a factory owned Palm Harbor store...the dealer and factory are one and the same...never a conflict if there is a problem...never the other guys fault...

Also..PH owned stores have factory techs who do the final trim and walk through with you...Far cleaner and smoother than most independent dealers can do..

I believe the factory 5 year warranty is the same...except for dealer caused problems..