I'd pay the extra $1000 to get a more superior, longer lasting, product. When the stapled cabinets fall apart, it'll cost you way more than $1000 to replace them with a good quality set of cabinets.

Get better quality cabinets than Merrilat in the first place. Mid grade lines don't nickel and dime you on construction details that should come standard.

Thank you. Merillat is all that is offered. Choices are basic, or upgrade to Classic. Masterpiece isn't offered. I think we will spend the extra $1k and go with the classic. I initially figured $30k for "upgrades" but we are now at $40k so everything over this amount has that "ouch" factor. Still, there are still upgrades I'd love to have but something has to give. At this point I am re-examining functionality verses style. Again, thanks for the advice.

mrsshayne, I might have been mistaken about the dovetail. I looked on line and it looks like the cabinet box on the classic is 3/4 verses 1/2 on the basics. I couldn't verify that it is dovetail. The classic comes with a limited 25 year warranty verses a 1 year limited warranty on the basics, so it looks like a better cabinet. We plan on living in the condo for then next 5 years, but who knows how long we will be there. I have seen both, and to me they look very similar?

I have the Merillat Classic in my master bath vanities and I am getting again for my hall bath remodel. I think the Classic is worth the extra $ for the dovetail, soft close and warranty. I am very happy with my cabinets and would buy this brand again.I think its a good product for the money.