I'm calling this bed a perfect purchase for the money! We looked at beds for our 12 year old daughter and her smaller room for a year. We did not want to spend a lot of money, and we do plan on her her using this bed until she moves out. She feels she has plenty of room to sleep and sits on this bed for homework, etc..
It was pretty easy to assemble. She and I did it in about 2.5 hrs. I only needed my husbands help at the end when I had to insert some screws that I forgot to place in an earlier step. Instructions were clear, but take your time and look at each step carefully to avoid the problem I encountered. 
Other reviews are correct that drawers don't fit perfectly. Actually; one did, one basically does, and one is obviously lopsided when closed.
Bed feels sturdy, and my 12 year old and 15 year old routinely stand on it while playing Wii Sports.
I would definitely recommend this product, keeping in mind it's a $500 bed, not a $1000 bed. We are VERY happy with this purchase.