Carpet replacement for Townhome

[Gash Nag]

Hello Experts,

I need to change the carpet for my rental. I read on this forums to expect $10/sq.yard ( $5.50 for carpet , $2.0 for padding, $2.50 for installation. But the bids I get are all around $16.0 or $17.0 sq.yard.

How do people get such good deals? Where should I look to get a good deal for an apartment grade carpet? I have been calling up experts that were referred by friends.

Thanks for all the help,

Thanks
Gash