Bargain furniture-buying tips

By Anne Marie Apollo-Noel

Buying furniture can seem like a daunting task unless you know what to look for. From negotiating delivery costs to scooping up last year’s styles, savvy shoppers can save on furniture purchases large and small. Before you buy, check out these tips from Jennifer Litwin, author of Best Furniture Buying Tips Ever! and Furniture Hot Spots: The Best Furniture Stores and Websites Coast to Coast.

Shop locally

Studies have shown local independent retailers offer the best value on furniture, Litwin says. Look for perks like free returns or assembly. Charges for the latter can add up. Litwin says 75 percent of all furniture requires some kind of assembly.

Buy off-season

The furniture fashion season runs in tandem with clothing collections, Litwin said. Retailers who were passionate about purple last year need to clear their inventory to make room for this spring’s citrus hues, so if a trendy piece strikes you, be patient. It could soon be yours at a fraction of the price.

Insider deals

Once the domain of an interior designer, design centers for professional decorators are now opening up to the public, Litwin says. The best part? Many offer access to on-call designers who can offer you discounted trade products for a small fee.

Buy off the floor

If you like what you see at the store, offer to buy the floor sample for a discount. Just remember, the best bargain is a piece that you really want. “If you see something you love and you are otherwise picky, than just buy it,” Litwin says. “Chances are you’ll never find it again.”