Buying Furniture in the Credit Crunch

You'd be forgiven for thinking that now, with the economy in the state it's in, is the absolute worst time to think about buying that new wardrobe you've always been dreaming of. It's no lie that sales of large and more costly items like furniture tend to dip during a recession. But it can open opportunities to get those large furniture items now on the cheap. Here are my tips on buying furniture in the credit crunch: 1. Get it for free. The idea of online social network to swap and recycle furniture has become hugely popular ont the web lately. Make sure you check out sites like freecycle.org, gumtree.com and craigslist.com and see what's available in your area. You can't be too picky but you might find the perfect item at the best possible cost - nothing at all! 2. Don't dismiss second hand stores. In this day and age you can't afford to be a snob. Actually, you'd be surpised at the quality of some of the things you'll find in a well-stocked charity shop. OK so not
all of the stuff you find there will be particularly new, stylish or well kept. But I've often come across some really solid pine and painted furniture at my local YMCA store! 3. Don't accept the ticket price. Don't be shy to argue down the price, even in a traditional department store or showroom - this is exactly the time to do it. These guys are desperate for your custom. And believe me, they are expecting to throw in a discount to sweeten the deal. If you want to pay a little less for that dining room furniture set, just ask them to knock some money off. Youll be surprised at just how often they agree. 4. Use the internet. There have been a swarm of furniture sites online in the last couple of years. And they can be the source of some real bargains. Often you can find the same pieces on a web-only store as you do in the big showrooms, at a much cheaper price. The numbers speak for themselves on this one. In 2009, online furniture sales increased by 31% when compa
red to the previous year. 5. Look for a local furniture seller. It may seem counter intuitive but finding a local furniture can actually end up cheaper than a national chain. First of all, there is the friendliness factor - local furniture dealers are often also owners and are far more willing to cut a deal with you. Also, you often find beautiful handmade furniture made with solid wood rather than the mass produced veneer you get in the big stores. I'm speaking from experience here - I recently came across a gorgeous showroom close to where I live, offering great white bedroom furniture and accessories. I ended up stocking up my entire bedroom from there! The recession doesn't mean that you should give up on thoughts of new furniture. It could get you a real bargain

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