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Bring your own ideas, but be open to theirs, too

"Spend some time looking at what is available and what uses you are planning for the building. Be flexible and willing to listen to what the salesperson suggests as well. Remember they want you to be happy with your building and their service because if you are happy you become their best advertisement."

- Barbara Lee, Health Care, Crescent City, CA

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Know what you're likely to spend

"Do your homework.....know your basic cost before submitting for an estimate."

- Bellhillbilly, Construction/General Contracting, Delhi, NY

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Find out how they'll treat you

"When taking quotes for steel buildings be sure to ask about customer support."

- Randy M. Shuck, Other Services, Meadow Bridge, WV

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Keep the long view of what you want and can afford

"Make sure to check out all your options when shopping for a steel building. Don't fall for pushy sales people trying to sell you something that will otherwise be gone -there are plenty of companies out there that will sell you exactly what you're looking for without trying to push you towards something you might not even need, and probably even at a better price. If you're looking to build a steel home, a cheap alternative is to purchase a large garage and finish it yourself, if you're handy. Most counties will approve such a conversion if the plans have been drawn up by an engineer. Also, keep your wishes in perspective; things you want vs. things you can actually afford!"

- Annika Johnson, Other Services, Tacoma, WA

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An outline of smart steel building buying tactics

"Plan far enough ahead to avoid costly changes. Make businesses compete for your service. Check quality of service rating if provided. Don't be sold something you don't want. Make sure your purchase is able to accommodate future needs."

- Brian L. Hinton, Non-profit, Lumberton, NC

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Have your measurements ready

"Know exactly the size building you need & the roof pitch; also the number of walk doors & overhead door sizes."

- Wes Staton, Retail, Owingsville, KY

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Get direct proposal comparisons

"Allow the suppliers to review each others proposals, removing the pricing. This will help to show you the differences in their services and offer better information on which is really the best deal!"

- Laurence Dagget, Retail, San Antonio, TX

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