has anyone every gone to oneof those direct buy appointments and found out about whether or not it's a scam?

Answer 1

These kinds of businesses have been around for many years. They usually close the doors, leaving their "members" holding worthless memberships, after the lawsuits pile up. This normally happens after only a few years of operation. Interestingly, the same people simply incorporate under a new name and perpetuate the scam under a new name.

I have never understood why someone would pay a fee for the right to buy from a business. Getting a Sam's Club card for $35.00 is one thing, but spending hundreds or thousands of dollars up front for the right to spend additional money on unspecified merchandise is quite another.

My advice is to run as fast as you can from this type of offer. Save your money and be a prudent shopper. You will benefit in the long run.

And that's my 2 cents worth on that topic!

Good luck with your decision.

Answer 2

My husband and I considered joining last year, but after spending some time trying to figure out the whole thing, we bailed out of our appointment. I believe the "showroom" is actually a bunch of magazines that you leaf through. You also have to sign a no-talk waiver, which is why it's hard to get any info about them. Somewhere in my research I came across a few lawsuits pending (Better Business Bureau?). Although technically they are not a scam, I think they may not have the most upstanding business practices.

Answer 3

In other Forums I frequent, the complaints are as follows. High membership fees ($4000), paying the shipping on purchased items, and problems rectifying broken merchandise when delivered. I belonged to a similar club years ago and found that the items were new but discontinued stock. Unless you are furnishing a complete house, I don't see where the costs of being a member would be offset with what you save.

Answer 4

I know people who are members, it is not a scam however I do believe that when you go to the appointment you have to be in a position to make a commitment or not that evening and also there is a membership fee which I am under the impression is about $4000. to join. Both couples that I know who are members are either building a cottage or remodeling a room in their home so it is well worth it, if you just want to buy a couch or something it probably is not worth it.