12 Furniture Buying Tips to Get High Quality for Less Money
Furniture buying tips…..
Buying furniture can be somewhat stressful, mostly due to the expense. However, there are ways to make it easier by following a few guidelines on how to look for high-quality furniture without breaking the bank. Here are a few tips on what to look for when buying furniture pieces that are high in quality and style, but low in price.
- Understand the Various Kinds of Wood Available
Wood furniture basically falls into one of three categories:
• Wood veneer
• Solid wood
• Composite wood or particle board
Furniture constructed from solid wood is generally more expensive and considered high-end, but can be vulnerable to water rings, nicks, and scratches. Veneers are less expensive than solid woods. They consist of a cheaper wood base covered by many thinner layers of higher-quality woods. Due to its less expensive core, veneers are not as costly as solid woods. Composite wood and particle board are the cheapest wood in terms of quality. They’re derived from a combination of resin, plastics, and wood pulp and generally do not stand up well to daily wear and tear.
2. Look for Dovetail Corners
When inspecting furniture, check to see how the corners fit together. Are they simply glued and nailed together? Glued and nailed corners are not durable. Seek furniture with wood joined corners, or dovetail joints. These can support more weight and offer more resilience.
3. Test Drawers and Cabinets
Pull out drawers and open cabinets. Drawer pulls should smoothly pull out all the way, shut evenly, and properly latch. Cabinet doors should open problem-free, stay open, and shut easily.
4. Lifestyle
Lifestyle will primarily determine the kinds of fabrics, color, and style of the chosen furniture. For instance, a delicate chenille covered sofa will not pair well with a large rowdy dog.
5. Use Color Properly
Here’s a great rule of thumb to follow when it comes to furniture and color: The larger the piece of furniture, the more neutral the color. Save the bold punches of color for pillows, decor accents, and other smaller easier-to-replace items.
6. Check the Legs
Furniture legs should ideally dovetail to the frame of the piece, not be glued and nailed. Solid wood legs look better and will last longer as well.
7. Cushion Test
Furniture cushions should be firm and fully covered with the same fabric on both sides. Cushions with removable covers are easy to wash and often wear better.
8. Look at the Springs
Before purchasing a furniture piece, be sure to check the springs. Quality coils will push down and easily spring back immediately into place. Traditional coiled springs make firm sofas, while zigzag coils feel softer.Buying Quality Furniture for Less Money
9. Wait for the Best Time
The best time to buy furniture is towards the end of the year or the middle of the year around July 4th. Furniture prices tend to fluctuate, but at these specific times, too much inventory can offer the largest discounts.
10. Used Furniture is an Option
High-quality furniture can often be found at secondhand furniture stores or estate sales. Be sure to check for any stains, scratches, or tears prior to buying.
11. Learn How to Negotiate
Not everyone is comfortable haggling for a better deal. However, there are two instances where negotiating is a must: furniture and cars. Many people have no idea just how much furniture is marked up. Many times, the salesperson will knock off 15% — 20% when asked, especially at the end of the year or mid-year.
12. Free Furniture is Another Possibility
There’s a great deal of quality furniture that’s simply free. Look both online and off for recycling sites, or any discarded pieces from friends and family. There’s even a free section on Craigslist that may have a variety of good pieces.
It’s definitely possible to find good, quality furniture without spending full price. All good things come to those who wait — even good furniture.
