Good stock usually takes longer than hatchery stock since they are breed for other factors not just production.
My guys lay more the more (healthy) treats they get--even soaking their crumbles or pellets in water gets they excited when I don't have many left overs for them!
I agree. The initial cost of the birds is nothing compared to the cost of raising them and your time. I am still looking for a SLW pullet and almost went for hatchery stock--until I realized that hatcheries frequently show pictures on their websites and catalogs of birds that are close to...