I bought this tree in the middle of summer when it was dirt cheap. I didn't live in the U.S. at the time and so shipped it to store in someones garage. I was a little concerned about the 9' aspect, but lo and behold, we bought a home with 9 1/2' ceilings and am I ever glad. This tree is absolutely GORGEOUS and I have never, ever, EVER been a fan of fake trees. Every year we have gotten a fresh, real tree - however, this tree is so beautiful and honestly very real looking - several people asked us last year if it was real or not and I was tickled to tell them that it wasn't. :)
The assembly was fairly straight forward and taking down as well. I highly recommend this tree even for the price it is today. :) Worth every penny.