So now he contacted Kioti and is able to offer the free loader (but I lost the cash discounts)....
with this revised offer the Kioti is now about $5K less than Kubota ($27K vs $32K with the desired add ons). This leaves a sour taste in my mouth for sure....
Surprising, too as the dealer has been around this area for 50 years and was very professional in all my dealings with them.
And aother Kioti dealer also didn't offer the free loader.... and another one quoted me above MSRP!!
My decision to go kubota was easy when it was a small price differnce.
Now at $5K difference its definitely a bit tougher....
They are both nice machines.
Oh my…those are data points too.
I am not familiar with Kioti machine myself…I know one person that has one and they are happy. That’s helps you absolutely none IMO.
If it were me I would be wrapped around axle what I am going to do if when need support thru dealer for parts, warranty, and service (help after the point of sale).
As mentioned above you have some data points. Regardless brand you chose or which dealer you plan to give your money too, I would encourage to consider what is your plan after the original point of sale. Maybe those dealers you mentioned are shooting you straight? Maybe not. You have some data points…it’s up to you if you decide to give them your money…it’s always your choice. Would you trust them to properly submit warranty claim and support you? Do you trust them to set the machine up properly? Will they make it right if they make a mistake? That is not manufacture specific either. But you need a straight dealer in your back pocket IMO.
That doesn’t mean switch brands, but you may need a trailer with good tires.
Anyway I’d encourage any buyer consider after point of sale service and shop the dealer(s) if you feel you have not yet found a straight dealer. (If dealing with a sheister, I’d bet the response is not better than when trying to help you spend your money on the purchase)
Initial purchase price is important for sure. So is the total cost of ownership over some period of time. If you trust your dealers, great, slam dunk…if not have to go further for help…if you get boned on a warranty claim that could eat up the initial price savings. Point here is choosing dealer is as much or more important than the brand, or it can be.
Still your money and your decision.
Good luck, keep us posted and share some pics whatever you end up with.