How to Furniture Shop on a Budget

It can be a great time to hunt for deals right now on furniture. I’ve been noticing quite a few sales popping up around town in furniture stores and as it’s been getting warmer I’ve seen more garage sales.

I wanted to include some tips about shopping for furniture.

Plan Ahead and Decide on Your Budget

Look at your budget and see how much you are willing and able to spendon furniture. You want to afford good quality, but you don’t want to take on debt.

Examine what you already have in your home and have an idea of what you need to change. Make a list of what you want and keep it with as you go around shopping.

Have Friends and Family Look Out For You

If you are looking for a specific item, let your friends and family know. They maybe able to inform and update you on yard sales or stores you may have notice.

Shopping for Furniture at a Garage Sale

The weather is getting nicer and with spring comes more and more garage sales. Try and remember these tips when you’re hunting for some furniture.

• Go early and hunt. See if you can find some hidden gems before someone else finds them.
• If you buy some items at a garage sale, see if you can get a ‘bundle’ discount. It doesn’t hurt to ask and you may be surprised to get an item dirt cheap in a deal.
• Double check the furniture’s condition. You want to make sure it’s solid and will last for some time.
• Bring cash. Don’t waste sellers time by asking them to hold an item until you come back and pay.

Shopping for Furniture at a Store

• Think in terms of overall cost. Don’t let the sales person talk you into furniture that is over your budget because you can afford the monthly payments.
• If you don’t see the item you’re looking for, ask to check if there are more options. Sometimes a model may have two finishes.
• Ask for a discount with the sales person. Take advantage of this economy and see if you can lower the price. Maybe you can get a floor model discount.
• Double check the furniture’s condition. If there are any minor imperfections, you may be able to come away with a deal on it.

As you know being  polite and friendly isn’t just good for negotiations ; it should be your default mode when working with people.

What tips do you have when you’re bargaining hunting for furniture? Do you have any success stories?

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