We've gotten bids for Lopi Evergreen insert with insulated liner from three local companies here in the lower Midwest. They are all *thousands* of dollars higher than what I've seen reported here and elsewhere even just months ago, and I'm trying to figure out why. There's nothing uniquely difficult about our installation and current setup, for the record. Have stove/insert prices shot up recently? I'm wondering if we should wait until next winter at this point. These are all before the tax credit, which becomes less advantageous on Jan. 1 as it will be capped at $2,000 and we exceed that credit with these purchase prices. So we're leaning toward pulling the trigger this week and appreciate feedback.
Company 1: $8,440 but terrible communication and less knowledgeable estimator, certifications unclear, handful of good reviews, say they can't install till March!
Company 2: $9,153 (), excellent communication, obviously more knowledgeable, top certifications, many good reviews, can install in 2 weeks. Unfortunately they aren't a Lopi dealer so have to purchase retail to accommodate our choice, hence the higher quote. They can do an Empire Archway 2300 for $7,382, which I hesitate over with literally no reviews here or elsewhere.
Company 3: $6,229 for materials alone (won't come out to bid the labor unless we pay a separate chimney sweep first, which worries me?)
We are leaning toward putting money down for an Evergreen with Company 2 this week in order to claim the 2022 no-cap credit, making the total $6,773 after tax credit. SHEESH.
Company 1: $8,440 but terrible communication and less knowledgeable estimator, certifications unclear, handful of good reviews, say they can't install till March!
Company 2: $9,153 (), excellent communication, obviously more knowledgeable, top certifications, many good reviews, can install in 2 weeks. Unfortunately they aren't a Lopi dealer so have to purchase retail to accommodate our choice, hence the higher quote. They can do an Empire Archway 2300 for $7,382, which I hesitate over with literally no reviews here or elsewhere.
Company 3: $6,229 for materials alone (won't come out to bid the labor unless we pay a separate chimney sweep first, which worries me?)
We are leaning toward putting money down for an Evergreen with Company 2 this week in order to claim the 2022 no-cap credit, making the total $6,773 after tax credit. SHEESH.
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