The mower you want is cheaper online. I know. I have looked too.

Then if the machine ever dies and you find out what you actually bought.

Why I buy the big stuff local

I have used the same dealer for years. He goes the extra mile now because I have been walking in the door for a long time. That relationship is worth more than the $200 I would save online.

Here is what local gets you that a website does not:

• You put your hands on the machine before you pay for it. No guessing from photos.
• They assemble it and start the engine before you leave. Online orders turn up in a box, in pieces.
• You drive away with it today. Not in a week and a half.
• No shipping. Getting a mower sent across the country can cost a small fortune.
• You ask a question and get an answer from a person standing in front of you.

The warranty is the real one

Don't buy big-box products either. A big box return can take weeks. Sometimes months.
The end up at your local dealer anyway, and who is he going to service first? His local customer that just walked in or a job sent from a big box shop.

Your local dealer sorts it out fast because he knows that machine is your income. That is the whole difference. Weeks off the road versus days.

One more thing: When you are buying a machine from a local dealer, ask about the turnaround time for repairs then. It gets you moved up the repair queue later. I have seen it happen plenty of times.

What I sometimes do buy online

Consumables. Speed heads, weed eater cord, and bearings. Small parts where the brand doesn't matter.

Big machines stay local. Every time.
​
​How to get an even faster service.

You don't have to do anything different to get better and faster service. Just always pay your bill on the days it's due and maybe drop off a few beers at Christmas.

Come and talk shop with us

I run a free group for owners of lawn care businesses. We offer training, templates, and a lot of operators comparing notes on gear, pricing, and customers.

I also give away a free website in there every single month. That alone is worth the click.

Join the free group here: skool.com/lawnmowing101/about​

Reply and tell me who your local dealer is and whether they look after you. I am curious how many of you have found a good one.

Until next time, get out there, mow lawns and have fun
Stuart
Lawnmowing101

PS. Want a $59/month website?
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