Furnishing a new home or refreshing your current décor can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some of our favorite money-saving tips for finding great furniture deals.
For example, you can save big by buying showroom floor models that may have a few dings and scratches. Alternatively, you can find great deals at clearance centers and local furniture outlets.
Pay cash
Using cash for furniture shopping is the best way to save money. It avoids interest charges, which typically increase the furniture cost. However, this may only be an option for some. If you do not have enough savings, you can use credit cards with low-interest rates to pay for the furniture. This way, you will not incur additional debt and will be able to build your credit score.
Many furniture stores offer financing to encourage shoppers to purchase their products. The salespeople at these locations receive a commission for each sale, incentivizing them to make as many sales as possible. This is why they often promote deals that sound too good to be true, such as 0% interest for years.
However, it would help if you always considered how much the total price of your furniture will be when you decide to finance it. In some cases, more than the minimum monthly payment will be needed to pay off the table in the allotted time. It would help if you also considered other costs, such as shipping, taxes, and extended warranties.
Wait for a department store sale.
Online stores keep their prices low by selling closeout items, sales by department, and open-box outlet furniture (returned and refurbished pieces) at even lower prices. You can also find deals by signing up for their email list or app, and you can save extra with a store credit card.
Many retailers will let you price match, but knowing how they do so is essential. For example, some will only match their online prices, while others will only consider a competitor’s sale price. In addition, you may need to provide a valid reason for the pricing match, such as a local competitor offering free shipping or a similar promotion.
Online sites such as RetailMeNot can offer a collection of coupon websites you can choose from. Online stores offer discounts on brand-name furniture and appliances. They also have a decent rewards program, weekly deals, and lease-to-own options on many items. Their table includes a range of price points, from budget to high-end. They also carry designers’ collections, making it easier to put together a look for your home. You can even use their free virtual home design service to help plan your space.
Shop at thrift stores.
Twelve million tons of furniture—sofas, tables, chairs, and mattresses—are thrown away yearly. To help curb this waste, furniture thrift stores are popping up across the country. Whether you want to score some gently-used or give new life to an ancient floor lamp, thrifting suits your wallet and the planet.
One of the most popular furniture thrift stores has a user-friendly e-commerce app. The app also has an easy process for finding the best price on items like kids’ clothing. You can download the app on your phone or tablet and start immediately.
Another great option is an online thrift store specializing in home decor and vintage/rework pieces. The site carries everything from mid-mod to boho, and many items are discounted. If you’re serious about saving money and reducing your environmental impact, visiting thrift stores often is essential. Getting sucked into a several-hour trip at a thrift store is easy, but if you visit frequently, it can be much easier to pace yourself.
Take advantage of furniture store coupons.
Whether you’re looking for a side table or the sectional of your dreams, furniture stores are all over the place with great deals. Just be sure to price-check online because shipping charges can add up. And always ask for a discount if you’re buying in-store. You never know what the store will say, but trying can’t hurt.
Furniture companies often run sales and promotions that can save you a lot of money, especially around holidays. Signing up for their email lists online can give you early access to these deals. Some stores also offer credit card rewards programs for repeat customers, so be sure to check those out.
Another great tip is to shop local and buy from a small, independent furniture store. These stores are the most willing to negotiate on their prices. They have less to lose by cutting the price and can often pass on their savings to you. Don’t hesitate to ask for a significant discount, even on items not in the clearance section.
Negotiate
Having a few negotiating tricks up your sleeve when shopping for furniture can help you save big on your next purchase. Many furniture stores are willing to negotiate on price, especially if you’re paying in cash. If you’re patient, it’s also worth checking out secondhand options. Thrift stores, estate sales, flea markets, and Craigslist are great places to find quality furniture at a fraction of the retail cost.
Check out the return policy if you decide to go with a new piece. Some stores offer a generous exchange policy, while others have strict guidelines. Also, be wary of buying on a store credit card. If you don’t pay back the balance in full, you could pay interest on the entire purchase amount.
It’s also important to know that furniture stores often increase prices. Having this information will help you determine a reasonable price to ask for and make you seem more confident during negotiations with a salesperson. This makes them less likely to take advantage of you.
