Quote:
Originally Posted by
RayJordan 
I would add that a good dealer provides true value and also is wanting to develop solid business relationships over the long haul. Value does not just mean lowest price. Value is best combination of selection of quality healthy koi priced fairly, information, advice, education, and a lot of other intangables likes supports the local koi community, etc. (this includes banana pie)
Select one or at most two dealers to do business with. If you are a more valuable customer to them you have a better chance of getting better value and first selection on koi shipments. Make sure the dealer understands your koi goals. If possible buy your equipment and consumables like koi food, water treatments, mediciations etc. from your preferred dealer. If you are on a tight budget volunteer to assist the dealer with some projects or events and you will not only learn a great deal but will likely get some special tratment as well.
It is hard for a dealer to go the extra mile for a hobbyist that buys everything over the internet for a few dollars less and haggles endlessly about price. I also bite my tongue when some clubs buy much of their members supplies over the internet in bulk and then wonder why the local dealer isn't willing to donate items for raffles or sponsor stuff for a show. Relationships only work when both parties benefit.