I have HD, Bali, Comfortex and I think M&W blinds/shades in my home. I find all have good mechanisms but I like the Bali and Comfortex cords (on blinds) best.
I buy based on which brand has the color and design I'm looking for. Unless you're raising and lowering the blinds every day I doubt you need to go with the high end brand. You mentioned you're looking for shades, something that is much lighter in weight, so I think you can look beyond HD.
HD does sell online. Could part of the markup you're seeing be installation costs?
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like the grasscloth wallpaper and t he chairs - do not like the lamps or the mirror or the sideboard. drapes okay - don't love the tape.
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