Interiors by Design

Top 10 Sources for Furniture Bargains

I found this article and added some of my own thoughts regarding good sources for furnishings on a budget. Being a wise and thrifty shopper just makes sense and the treasure hunt is very fun.

1. Garage Sales

There are bargains galore at garage sales. If you don’t know how to shop them, just ask around and you’re sure to find a friend or relative who would be happy to show you the ropes. Cash will get you the best bargains as will showing up early or just before closing time.

2. Flea Markets

Not for the faint of heart, these are often mega events with booths for refreshments as well as furnishings. Expect to bargain with vendors for the best prices. Take a buddy and wear walking shoes since you’ll spend the day on your feet. More must-haves: water, sunscreen, a tape measure, plastic bags, lots of cash, and a rolling cart.

3. Online Auctions

You can look for bargains day or night on Internet sites, with eBay as the granddaddy of them all. Do a bit of price research before you bid, searching for similar products and noting the bids as well as the asking prices. Pay attention to condition of products as well, and ask questions before you buy. After is too late. Check out the rating of the seller as well. Don't forget to check out the shipping prices which can be prohibitive on large items. Some eBay sellers are using low prices to hook you and then charging way too much for shipping. Craig's List is great for large items as you can shop locally and then pick them up yourself. Consider PayPal to insure safe transactions online.

4. Local Consignment Stores and Thrift Stores

These retail outlets offer furnishings and décor items that are shopworn or used. Items maybe in excellent condition or they may be damaged or heavily worn. Look often at these types of sources, since inventory can change dramatically from week to week. Sometimes just a little attention to detail, a coat of paint, or a good washing and you will have just what want for next to nothing!

5. Free Sources

Nothing will stretch your budget farther than accumulating items that cost nothing. Whether you trade with friends, find items left by the curb, or get donations from family and friends ~don't say no. Jim & I got almost everything we own as someone else was casting them off. A little elbow grease and you can have a real treasure. This can be a great way to get started in a first home or trade out items you no longer love. Also in my business when people offer me something for the warehouse I always try to accept it even though I may not totally love the item. You would be surprised how often I do this and land up finding the perfect place for that item in one of the homes we are staging for sale. If you decide later you don't want something you can always donate it yourself~but let it pass through your hands first. You just never know...

6. Damaged Furnishings and One-of-a-Kind Sales

Retail stores have a back room filled with furnishings that have been damaged, returned, or are last season’s merchandise. Items are sometimes marked down on a regular basis, by week or by month. Call your favorite furniture stores to find out how they sell these less-than-perfect items.

7. Rental Furniture Outlets~Cort Furniture has some outstanding bargains.

Rental companies in your area may have a warehouse of furnishings that are no longer rentable. Look for used furniture in the phone book or call these businesses to inquire how they dispose of used furnishings. Don't forget the want-ads either.

8. Salvage Yards

Though you may not find furniture in a salvage yard, you will surely find an ever-changing assortment of windows, hardware, moldings, and parts to create your own unique furnishings. Take a look. You may just find an interesting piece or two to use as wall art or as parts for a shelf, table, or bookcase.

9. Warehouse Outlet Sales

Large retailers may have an annual warehouse sale of furniture and appliances in your area. Watch the newspaper for these events or ask a salesperson how to find out about these sales.

10. Local Estate Sales and Auctions

Look for these in local newspaper classified sections. Attend the “Preview Day” whenever possible, to check if you are interested in any of the items. It will also be your chance to examine the items close up and ask any questions about them. You may also have time to research prices and determine how much you are willing to pay.