MikeFerrara:
Down there in florida I've seen them advertised for like $99.
I can tell you from my experience that some shops advertise that price and then tell you that it is just for tuition. They then make you pay for books and more, the ones I went to wouldn't let you use your own equipment unless you let them inspect everything which they charged by the hour for. They would however rent you the equipment for $100, added up quick, close to $500 when all was said and I just laughed. Then they had the gull to patronize me for buying my bc new online instead of from them, I was actually getting upset about how underhanded their tactics were.
I will tell you, if any shops are listening that use these tactics, I would rather spend twice the amount at a shop that is upfront with me rather than your shop. So take a hint and change your tactic and be up front, your turning business away thats all.
I took my classes at a great place, they only charged me $250 for everything. I was able to use my own equipment, they checked my regulator for free. The people that didn't have their own stuff got loaner equipment that the shop let them take home and bring back, until we were done with the classes. I did have to borrow a wet suit, huge difference from what the $99 shops offered. Nicest guys I found, I knew the first few minutes I walked into the shop they were good people. Only problem is they were a good distance from my house.
Recently I found another shop close to my house that I missed, this guy that owns this shop is the best. I have been giving him all my business lately, everytime I go in his shop I must spend $100. We have a group of three that dive together, so between the three of us he makes out pretty good, we go out somewhere every week.
He is going to make out really good this weekend, if I am right my buddy Ron is going to buy one of his spearguns. My other buddy Rob is going to be renting $50 worth of equipment, add 4-6 more tanks, add stuff we think we need and probably don't and it will all put a smile on his face... He is good people though so it makes me happy to stick with him and put my money in his pocket.
I don't believe any shop that advertises $99... Sorry about the rant but the way they went about explaining the other costs and kept adding stuff, really left a bad taste in my mouth... $250 is about the lowest actual cost I have found, in my area...
Pinellis, Pasco, Hernando, Citrus...