Where do you shop? HOME DEPOT vs MENARDS vs LOWES - Benefits?

[Kyle Grimm]

Hi everyone I was just looking into signing up for the Home Depot credit card yesterday (which I found doesn't have that great of benefits) and I started wondering.. out of the three biggest box stores (Home Depot, Menards, Lowes) which one offeres the best programs and benefits for someone like me who is in there spending money every day on rehab projects.  For instance:  Yesterday I spent about 3k on material and it was stupid of me not to be taking advantage of special offers for members if they have any.  

I am really just looking for ideas on how to take advantage of any savings possible at any of those three stores.  Usually I never shop at Lowes but if someone suggests they have betters savings, I may have to consider.  Thanks!

[Andy Luick]

I prefer Lowes to Home Depot but that's mostly because Lowes treats me like a mini celebrity.  Get with the commercial desk and you can probably get a 10% discount on most things by developing a relationship.  On larger purchases, price compare and then get one or the other to beat the price by 10%.  Depending on the size of your market, network online and track down who is dealing in pallets of lighting, plumbing or other "restocks" that home depot and lowes sell off by the trailer load.  I have a few great resources in atlanta that I am happy to share via PM.

I buy some of my lighting packages this way and typically save 50%....same with plumbing...appliances I usually do reconditioned or changeouts posted on craigslist.  Don't rule out CL for materials....it's a great place to pick up tile, carpet, cabinets and most everything you will need at a huge savings.  My lighting supplier will call me when they get near the end of their load for an added discount if I can use the stuff.