I think there are 2 sides to this. From the point of view of enlightened self interest, we do need to support our dealers.
But it's clear he was offended. If you get this and it was not your intention, it may make sense to go back and apologize.
My 2 cents worth: start again.
The very fact of the apology would probably incline him to help you out. Explain your budget and ask him whether he could help, maybe as tk21 suggests, with used equipment? You could then delay the decision and check out if you are getting a fair deal. If you still feel you are being ripped off, its easy to vote with your feet.
Win win is ALWAYS the best kind of deal. Do keep in mind all the positives of working with and having a good relationship with a good brick and mortar dealer.
But it's clear he was offended. If you get this and it was not your intention, it may make sense to go back and apologize.
My 2 cents worth: start again.
The very fact of the apology would probably incline him to help you out. Explain your budget and ask him whether he could help, maybe as tk21 suggests, with used equipment? You could then delay the decision and check out if you are getting a fair deal. If you still feel you are being ripped off, its easy to vote with your feet.
Win win is ALWAYS the best kind of deal. Do keep in mind all the positives of working with and having a good relationship with a good brick and mortar dealer.