Thanks for the input so far guys.
said by XXXXXXXXXXX1:EDIT: I would try to buy from a local shop over a bog box in this case. My local shop price matched Sears, and they have techs that are local and consistent when service is needed. I've been trying to shop local lately when reasonably possible, and have been rewarded with good prices AND good service.
I do the same. All appliances in our house are from a local mom and pop place. The washer and dryer will be from them, too, if they carry whatever models we end up interested in after research. They carry the Amana, Kitchenaid (but no laundry items for this brand), and Maytag/Whirlpool brand appliances.