Part 1: Find sources that can stretch your decorating dollar
Most of us have lived in a time when we needed to decorate an apartment or home on a budget. We probably "borrowed" items from our parents, inherited castoffs from friends, and purchased cheap furnishings that we eventually threw away.
Sooner or later, however, our taste began to mature and the eclectic uncoordinated furniture we once thought was "cool" might now look like just a mish-mash of old stuff.
Let's face it, we'd probably be happy to get rid of all of it and start over. Unfortunately, few of us have the budget or the opportunity to begin furnishing a home from scratch whenever we want.
Nevertheless, there are ways to stretch your decorating budget and find bargains on quality furnishings that will bring years of beauty and style to your home.
Where are these great deals on furniture?
Try some of these resources the next time you need furniture but want to save money too.
> > Consignment Stores
These are popping up everywhere and are a great place to sell your old things and find new ones. Items are one-of-a-kind so shop often and be ready to buy when you see just the right piece. Get to know the owner or manager and explain what you need and they might just call when an appropirate piece comes in.
> > Model Home Sales
Builder model homes are another source of beautiful furnishings. Keep an eye out by visiting models in your area. If you see something you like, ask the sales office how and when the furniture might be available for sale. This is a terrific way to get coordinated and custom items at a fraction of the cost of new. Beware that some pieces may have fading, spots, or dents due to the heavy traffic and cleaning schedules at the models.
> > Clearance Outlets and Sales
Many major department and furniture stores have outlet center with ongoing or periodic furniture sales. Often the tags are marked with dates and prices are reduced every 30 or 60 days. Furniture in these outlets may be either scratched, a second, and overrun, reposessed, or otherwise imperfect. However, prices will generally reflect any imperfections and may also be negotiable.
> > Trades
You might have a sofa that's just too big for your new living room. Your best friend might have a loveseat that's too small for her family room. Why not negotiate a trade? It can be on a permanent or a temporary basis, as you choose.
> > Scratch and Dent Rooms
Furniture stores may have a corner or back room where they keep scratched and dented items available for sale at big discounts. Inquire at your favorite stores and visit often to watch for furnishing that might fit into your home.
Next: > Page 2: Budget Furniture Sources
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