Furnishing a new home or upgrading to a larger space can be expensive. But savvy shoppers can save money on big-ticket items by using sneaky tricks that furniture stores don’t want you to know.
Some recommend shopping at the end of winter and summer because retailers are trying to clear out old styles to make room for the new. Also, look for warehouse sales.
Look for Coupons
Whether you’re jazzing up your apartment or getting a start on making a new house feel like home, there are plenty of ways to save big money when shopping for furniture. From buying secondhand to repurposing items, many tricks can guarantee you a one-of-a-kind home and help you score some seriously amazing deals.
One of the first things you should do is look for coupons. Many retailers offer coupons that can be used online or in-store, and you’ll find the best deals often occur during significant shopping holidays such as Black Friday, Memorial Day Weekend, and Labor Day.
Another thing you should do is sign up for email or mailers from the retailer where you want to shop, as this will allow you to get special offers and coupons that aren’t available to non-subscribers. Additionally, you’ll often be able to take advantage of gift card offers and other promotions that can make your purchase even more affordable. Click here for more information.
It would help if you also considered opening a store credit card, which can save you interest fees. However, it’s essential to remember that you must pay off the balance of your purchases within the allotted time frame to avoid paying interest on the entire amount you bought.
Ask for a Discount
Furnishing a new home or adding to an existing one can be expensive, regardless of your budget. But there are ways to save, and it’s sometimes about something other than waiting for a sale or buying used. From savvy shopping to haggling, these pro strategies can help you find great bargains on furniture and decor.
Salespeople at many stores are often on commission or have sales quotas to meet, and as such, they are willing to sweeten a deal with discounts and freebies. Shoppers who pay cash versus using a credit card may also score points with the store because they won’t be as likely to charge back items or bring up “issues” at delivery time.
The same goes for shoppers who buy multiple items and those who purchase floor models, typically sold at a discount since the furniture will be replaced with new stock.
In addition, the furniture you see in a showroom is usually just a tiny fraction of what the store has in stock. Ask your salesperson if they have warehouse sales where they sell off overstock, floor samples, and returned goods. They should be able to point you in the right direction or at least let you know when the next sale will occur.
Shop Online
Home furnishings can be expensive, so looking for sales is always a good idea. But online furniture shopping can also save you money in several ways.
Most retailers shop a one-stop shop for everything you need to furnish your home at a very reasonable price. They even have a clearance section. They offer free shipping on most items, and they ship quickly, too. They have many model rooms and style guides to help you with your home reno.
An online retailer that offers a membership program that can save you big bucks on a wide range of items. Their members get access to early sales and even receive a voucher with every purchase worth 10 percent of the item’s value. That means you can save a lot on a high-end piece of furniture that would typically cost you a fortune.
If you buy furniture online, compare prices and check each retailer’s return policy. And be wary of store credit cards that entice you to buy now but only pay for later — if you don’t make your payments on time, you could end up paying a lot more in the long run.
Negotiate
Furniture is essential for making a house a home, but it can stay within your budget. With some planning and tips, you can save money on furnishings while keeping your style intact.
Negotiating is one of the most effective ways to get a better price. Retail experts estimate that furniture prices are marked up 50% – 70% over the actual cost in most stores. By researching and knowing what is a reasonable price to pay, you can negotiate confidently to get the best possible deal.
Also, be sure to take note of the model number, fabric grade or name (for upholstered pieces), and manufacturer when you find something you like. This information can be used to track the exact item at another store or online. If you are still looking for what you’re looking for, ask the salesperson if they have any returns available at a discount.
Shopping for furniture without a plan is a sure way to overspend or end up with items you don’t need or want. But if you’re willing to put in some time and practice your negotiation skills, it’s easy to make significant savings on home furnishings. Using these hacks, you can shop like a pro and have the home of your dreams without breaking the bank.