We too purchased a house about 5 years ago, and I bought the fancy front loaders and the pedestals, but I had employee discount pricing, so it wasn't too bad. I am now selling this home to move into a more Mustachian one, and I'm including the fancy W/D in the sale. A few months ago the rubber membrane that seals the washer door ripped, and thankfully I noticed it before all the water gushed onto the floor! The repairman told me that these washers require membrane replacement every few years, and I watched as he took the whole thing apart just to replace this piece of rubber. Cost me $250. That was it, no more front loaders for me!
I waited till Home Depot had their black Friday sale, and I picked up a basic energy efficient top-loader set w/good reviews, for about $600 after the 10% off coupon. They gave me 6 months 0 interest, so why not. By the time my new house is ready, these will be paid off, and I won't even feel it out of our regular monthly budget. A few weeks ago HD called to force delivery on me, even though I had been clear before ordering that I would not take delivery for 4-6 months. The customer service rep told me that they dissuade people from buying appliances before they need them. Yeah, b/c they want you to buy at full price! I had to escalate it to a manager, but in the end, the store agreed to take delivery and store my appliances until I'm ready, and then they will personally deliver them to my new house. Not the most ideal setup, but I got my price & my appliances on my terms.