When it comes time to buy your mowers, chainsaws, and other outdoor power equipment, you might find yourself wondering if you should run up to that Big Box store or head to a local dealership, like Ty’s Outdoor Power.
While both options have pros and cons, buying your outdoor power from a dealership has three big (somewhat hidden) benefits: quality, selection, and service.
Before you head to Home Depot or Lowe’s, make sure that’s the right decision for your property in the long run.
Buying From a Local Dealership vs. Buying From a Big Box Store
Selection and quality, pricing, and expertise are going to vary wildly between the Big Box stores and your local outdoor power dealerships like Ty’s Outdoor Power. Here’s the inside scoop:
Are the Mowers the Same Quality and Model?
There can be significant differences in quality and available models between a specialized outdoor power dealership and a chain store like Lowe’s, Nebraska Furniture Mart, or Home Depot.
At an outdoor power dealership, you’ll find a wider range of high-quality brands and models specifically designed for the type of work you need your lawn equipment to do. Dealerships carry top-of-the-line models that offer superior performance, durability, and longevity compared to the mowers found at chain stores.
On the other hand, the Big Box stores tend to offer a more limited selection of mower models. They carry the most common models that are likely to get most of the job done, most of the time. Their primary focus is more on general household items rather than specialized outdoor power equipment. While these chain stores do carry some reputable brands, the available models just don’t offer the same level of quality and performance as those found at outdoor power dealerships.
Is the Equipment Priced the Same?
Money talks. And the Big Box stores advertise using magic words like “Sale” and “Low Prices,” so they must have the best pricing, right?
Well, not always. The truth is, locally owned dealerships often have access to special promotional pricing direct from the manufacturer. This means that we can offer competitive prices and sometimes even special discounts and incentives.
One of the advantages of buying from a local dealership is that we own the inventory. This means that we sometimes have more flexibility when it comes to pricing, depending on the manufacturer and the age of the equipment. In any case, we can often work with you to find a price and a model that fits your budget and your property.
It’s important to keep in mind that not all dealerships are the same, and prices may vary.
Is the Service the Same?
Service is the biggest difference you’ll notice when comparing a local dealership like Ty’s Outdoor Power with a Big Box store.
First of all, local businesses tend to prioritize a more personalized and attentive level of service. Because dealerships are smaller, we see you when you walk in and you can expect to be greeted with a friendly smile and a helpful attitude. Unfortunately, this isn’t the case at most Big Box stores, where you can wait 20 or 30 minutes for an employee to make their way over to the aisle where you need help.
Locally owned dealerships like Ty’s Outdoor Power know that your experience matters. Dealerships rely on repeat customers and positive word-of-mouth to thrive, so they should always go the extra mile to ensure you’re happy. The Big Box stores have the advertising power and customer volume to stay open, even if they make a lot of people very unhappy.
Choosing a local business over a chain store like Home Depot or Lowe’s should mean that you receive a higher level of personalized service and deeper product knowledge.
Better Equipped To Answer Questions & Match Your Property to the Right Mower
Whether you’re buying your first mower for your first home or you’re replacing Old Faithful on the acreage, not every property needs the same mower.
Is your ground flat or sloped?
Does your property have trouble spots or intricate landscaping?
Should you buy a push mower, a lawn tractor, or a zero-turn?
And is electric right for your property, or should you stick with gas?
Unlike the floor staff at most Big Box stores, dealerships hire and train their staff to understand the intricacies of different mowers. The team at Ty’s can answer all your questions, and will ask a number of our own, to make sure you get the best mower for your unique situation. We’ll help you consider factors like the size of your property, terrain, landscaping, future plans, and any other unique requirements. This ensures that you’ll have equipment that’s best suited to your property, eliminating some headaches and breakdowns in the long run.
When you make a purchase at Ty’s, you receive a free demonstration to show you how to start, run, use, and maintain your mower. Our experts will walk you through every step, and we’ll make sure you’re confident and comfortable using your new equipment. You won’t get that at a Big Box store.
Service After the Sale
Big Box stores don’t have a small-engine service department. If something goes wrong, you’ll need to find someone else to help get it running again. Local dealerships, like Ty’s Outdoor Power, not only sell outdoor power equipment but also provide maintenance and repair services for your convenience.
One of the biggest advantages of buying from a local dealership is that you don’t have to worry about fixing problems on your own. The service department at Ty’s Outdoor Power is trained to handle any issues that may arise with your equipment. Prefer to DIY? The parts department can make sure you get the right part for your exact model.
You don’t have to worry about how to transport your equipment to the service center, either. We have convenient pick-up and delivery, so our team will pick it up, fix it up, and bring it back home ready and running.
The team at Ty’s Outdoor Power goes the extra mile by registering your warranty for you, so that the warranty company never has an excuse not to cover your guaranteed repairs. We take care of all the paperwork, making the process hassle-free for you.
Supporting Family-owned, Community-first Businesses
Supporting locally owned businesses is not only a great way to contribute to the local economy, but it is also a way to support your local community. Local businesses are often more invested in the well-being of the community than chain stores. They are more likely to participate in local events, support community initiatives, and contribute to local charities. By supporting local dealerships, you’re indirectly supporting the overall community, too!
Ty’s Outdoor Power is a proud supporter of local sports, schools, Chamber of Commerce events, fundraisers, and charitable organizations.
Come See the Team at Ty’s
For 20 years, the team at Ty’s Outdoor Power has been proud to help homeowners, acreage owners, and commercial lawn care companies keep area lawns looking lush.We’re Nebraska’s outdoor power superstore, voted Best of Omaha for 10 years straight! Whatever outdoor power you need, come see the team at Ty’s to get personalized service, expert information, and great pricing.
