I am working with a client who is a member of direct buy.....as an Interior Designer, I have been to direct buy with my client and was able to research the pricing.  Along with the membership fee there is also an 8% service charge that you pay to Direct Buy.  I could beat or match Direct Buys pricing on many items.  Direct Buy is probably good for the "do it yourselfer".  Make sure you compare apples to apples on furniture.  Direct Buy doesn't have all brands.  So, if you are building a house....you probably would probably end up with the same savings from your contractor or interior designer and you are getting valuable input and the re-assurance that your purchases are the correct ones to make.

There are many details that need to be addressed when ordering custom items and the staff at Direct Buy, in my opinion are not experts on the merchandise.  Lighting is another area that measurements are critical along with cabinets...costly mistakes can be made.  There are restocking fees involved for returns.  For example, when you purchase lighting from a lighting showroom, you are also getting knowledge and expertise from the showroom as well.  I do know that my client did not purchase his windows or doors from Direct Buy...I'm sure it had to do with price and selection.