i think a lot of the complaints (that i've seen) are b/c ppl are
not informed.
they tend to buy lower grade furniture & renovation materials (which is fine, but personally, i would ~ and have
~ spend a few grand on a piece that will not only last for my family, but will still be around to "hand down).
i can also appreciate that many ppl like to change decor frequently (so why spend a lot each time?) or have little ones still in the stage where good furniture is not wise.
also, if one does not use it ~ it doesn't save money!! lol (a lot of ppl think it's a great idea initially, but don't think it thru enough. after you pay for the membership, there will still be the additional expense of purchasing items
). and if one isn't planning a renovation or large redecoating, the potential savings are lost.
as others have said, you do pay shipping (which most stores also charge), but we found the savings nonetheless significant. you do need to know your prices: most satified members find the item they want elsewhere (especially as you can see it in person then ~ most DB items are only listed in catalogs with an occassional picture), & then check the price at DB. btw, in addition to small electronic, we found american windows & blinds (online) to be less expensive on blinds. however, many items that i could get thru friends in certain trades (plumber, contractor, etc) were less expensive thru DB,
very rarely less with the friends' discounts.
bottom line is that DB is
definately not for everyone, but researching it thoroughly before you even make an appt will help you find out if it would be beneficial for you.