Bonanza Pete here. I found out about this thread from my website stats.
Yes in many ways the Homestead line is similar to our Oreo line. For quite a while I have been seeing the requests online for an instrument of quality in this price range. I studied how I build my instruments and looked at where the bottlenecks came from. Turns out it was in the custom features. Being everything to everyone.
So, i have reduced the options. It makes it easier to build. Less office time getting the details just right, doing sample burns of custom lasering,etc.
The Homestead line has the same core as our other ukuleles. The sound is the same. The playability is the same. Maybe I was overthinking things.
The issue on the no case was resolved. Now you can chose not to get a case. I will be adding additional pictures and video as time permits. We wanted to get this out for the Christmas season so rushed a few things. SORRY.
The introductory price will hold until Dec 1. At that time I am seeing a regular price around $249. Still an amazing price I believe.
Thanks for all the comments I am seeing here. Feel free to ask me questions.
Pete