Direct Buy entrapped, deceived, tricked Lacey Washington

Customer service is great - selection is extensive - and I have saved thousands for my house

I am a young male in my mid twenties, and I too saw the ads. I saw them on tv, in the paper, heard them on the radio; they were all over the internet. I eventually attended an open house and found that the process seemed very personalized and they were very curious about my particular needs, and where my initial interest came from.
During the Open House, I was informed at the end that my decision was required that day. Based on the information given to me during the Open House, I understand that this is because of the way DirectBuy operates, and is to PROTECT the relationship with manufacturers and the confidential pricing. As a member, I would be severely disappointed to know that this process isn't consistent, and that accomodations were made that could jeopardize my personal experience with DirectBuy and the manufacturers available.
I understand that this is a bit of a hoop, but I was willing to jump through it to gain membership PRIVILEDGES. I have already purchased an item from a very reputable manufacturer for outdoor use, and find that it is the exact same item I could have bought at the store...but much much closer to my price range. (I even got to pick the color!) RUGGED!
The savings may be small for someone who makes a larger income than I, but those add up! (I have seen large savings too!!)
I regret that your experience left you feeling tricked, and decieved; no person deserves that feeling after such an investment. However, I didn't encounter any such feelings when I personally went through an open house. Ultimately, the decision was left up to me, the tour giver was able to find a way to make it affordable for me, so I made what has proven to be a sound investment. Based on just the browsing I've done, I can realize how one could benefit and save from a membership. I'm confident I can. Which is why I CHOSE to get a membership, otherwise I would have walked right out the front door...which by the way was never locked while I was there. :)
Since signing up for a membership, the staff has continued to be just as pleasant, and even eager to help. For the extra options offered when ordering factory direct, instead of relying on what a store's purchasing agent picked out, I feel that it is a sound investment.
Once again, Nolen, in Chehalis, this isn't to disrespect or even belittle your opinion. I simply feel that as a member, I should point out that the experience was pleasant, there wasn't any deception that I could perceive, and no lies were told to me. All my questions regarding why I had to decide that day were answered to my satisfaction based on the business model of DirectBuy. It was all there in black and white when I read my contract. In regards to not getting your down payment back, I imagine any contractor would have a similar response if you asked for a refund after he remodeled your house.
I sincerely hope, as another member (I signed up in Lacey too and that's where I shop) that your experience changes for the better, and that the savings will be realized. I also would make the suggestion of calling ahead if you have a big project planned. Let them know you may want assistance, they have always been willing to help me find what I am looking for.