Some demos can be purchased with factory warranties. Manufacturers and equipment brokers warn superintendents to be cautious about purchasing machines that have been sitting idle for some time. Superintendents recommend checking references of brokers and other sellers and inspecting the used machines thoroughly to prevent the potential headache of hidden costs and unforeseen repairs. When considering leasing options, remember it can be convenient, but not necessarily cheap. Numerous factors must be considered.
Many superintendents opt for the leasing alternative for reasons other than price.
It has saved us a tremendous amount of money. We no longer have mechanics on staff. Purchasing the dozens of pieces of equipment and parts that enable superintendents to maintain the beauty of your golf course is no easy task. Look to them for their expertise, but educate yourself so that you understand why they're choosing one manufacturer and one distributor over another. This information was adapted for the private club industry from an article in the October 1997 issue of Golf Course Management , the monthly magazine of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America.