This cat tree lasted my young cat 2 years. He is pretty rough and scratched off most of the ropes around the pillars, and he also tore off most of the cloth around the condo. 
All in all, I'm sattisfied with the product. It was easy to assemble, and the price was great. I have been comparing with local pet stores and their cat trees don't even come close to price and quality.
I just retired this tree 2 weeks ago and got our crazy but awesome cat a new one.