[quote name='eldergamer']And the ads in the paper just seem to lie. 2012 mazda 5 van one in stock at 17,988. (none listed on the website at that price.) used 2010 mazda 5 van for 19,999. WTF! Why would the 2010 cost more than the 2012??

you car dealers.[/QUOTE]
Mazda is like that. They "add standard features" every year. They take the most upgraded features from 2010 and bundle them in with new 2011 models at the new base-line pricing. My 2007 Mazda6 SVI cost less than the 2006 Mazda6 base model. My car came standard with a 6-CD changer in-dash, power everything including 8-way power driver's seat, rims with wheel locks, and the ambient temp display in-dash.
[quote name='seanr1221']GF and I got approved for a loan to get the house we want. Now we just have to figure out the extras. We're not upgrading much right away...cabinets, stainless finish on the appliances and a different edge on the granite. The wiring is killer though, they really gouge you on prices (225.00 to wire per ceiling fan).
We won't be moving till December so looks like I have to save every penny till then.[/QUOTE]
Congrats. Definitely get the rounder edge for the granite, the square one chips. From what friends who have bought new construction have told me, don't pay the extra for the appliances, ceiling fans and other electrical/plumbing stuff, an electrician/plumber will charge you less after the fact. Make sure you hit Green Demolitions in Honesdale, PA. They have designer showroom break downs, overstock and high-end "recycled" appliances, many of which are brand new. They're a non-profit that supports AA/NA and teaches recovering addicts job skills so their prices are dirt cheap. We got a new Kohler Highline toilet, cherry bathroom vanity, granite counter top with under-mounted porcelain sink, matching cherry medicine cabinet, and matching cherry linen cabinet for $550. The toilet alone normally retails for $200+.