Furniture Shopping Advice

Where are the good deals?

2010-09-26T07:40:00.002-07:00

Furniture and Home Furnishings stores have had quite a wild ride over the last few years. With this industry tied to the fate of home sales and housing starts, there is no doubt that furniture retailers are "swinging hard". Many stores are now promoting sales and savings of 50 to 80% off. Is this true? What has always been a challenge for the furniture shopper is even more challenging today? The real key is to ignore the savings claims and begin by comparing quality features. Of course the other aspect of finding a good deal rests in your needs. There is truth to the adage, "you get what you pay for". Do your research by asking questions of yourself and your family. How do you plan to use the furniture? Is it form or function? In other words, is this a piece that will simply sit in your "living room" for show or is it a piece that will be used everyday. Furniture is an investment. Do your homework as to your needs and do not be fooled by the hype of advertising. It is kind of like the "side show" at the circus. Some one entices you in with promises of exotic or unique entertainment. The proof is in the performance.
Happy Shopping!

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2010-07-25T11:09:00.003-07:00

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Is Free Delivery really free?

2006-11-23T16:45:00.000-07:00

Is free delivery really free? If a store is offering free delivery then it would be wise to take a careful look at the price of the furniture. It costs a retailer to own, operate and maintain a delivery truck. If a retailer is offering free delivery then you should know that the cost of running a truck and paying the employees is hidden in the price of the merchandise. Why customers are fooled by this process is hard to understand. The key to making certain you are not paying to much is to do your homework . If possible you should compare prices on the furniture you selected at other stores to make certain that the asking price including the free delivery is competitive. Ask the salesperson if you can get a discount for picking up the product and avoid having it delivered. Local and normal delivery charges can run from 3 to 5% of the merchandise total and should include complete unboxing and setup in your home. Some furniture stores are willing to concede the cost of delivery as merely the cost of doing business. However, deliveries to distances outside of the normal trading area of the store may incur additonal charges. Is paying for delivery worth the addtional cost? I would suggest that the process of unboxing and moving furniture is not as easy as it looks. Unless you have experience, it is recommended that you pay a nominal fee to have this accomplished and save your back.

Planning your space

2006-09-23T09:08:00.000-07:00

Failure to plan is the most common mistake people make when shopping for new furniture and home furnishings. Will the furniture fit through the door? How much space is acceptable between the furniture that will be placed in the room. Will my existing furniture work well with the new items I have selected. This Room and Furniture Layout Kit can help with this process.