Okay, it admittedly took us more than one moment to orient our brains to the instructions since they basically break this WHOLE project down into "three" steps. But once we got it down, this bed was actually very easy to assemble. With only one kid interrupting us occasionally (I do recommend doing this while your kids are gone or sleeping if possible though!), we had it up in a little over 2 hours. This is definitely a 2-person job. My husband and I never even threatened each other once!Our kids LOVE it, and so do I. Perfect height for our 1 and 3 year old, and the steps make us feel more comfortable with our son climbing up and down. This bed can easily grow with either of them and since the bottom bunk is on the floor, it can become a play area down the road. So yes, great value for the money.The bed feels sturdy. Probably not indestructible but even a big kid would have to beat or jump on it pretty hard, so we're not worried about our little ones breaking it. Right now the top bunk is my son's personal play area because he inevitably ends up sleeping with his sissy on the bottom. This bed was 100% worth it. 110% if you factor in the cuteness/entertainment value.