Never Gonna
Kitting Out Your Home On a Budget
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. Well, it’s true that in recessions people tend to buy less “git ticket” purchases like sofas and fridges. However, if you are clever about it you can actually use the situation to your advantage and get some really good deals.
Here are my tips on buying furniture in the credit crunch:
1. Get it for free. In recent years the concept of recycling and swapping unwanted furniture has really taken off on the internet. 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. None of us can afford to be snooty these days. 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. Bargain Bargain Bargain. The financial situation means the time is ripe to bargain on the final price, even in the large, established department stores. 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. You’ll be surprised at just how often they agree.
4. Use the internet. The past few years have seen a lot of online furniture suppliers spring up. 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 statistics say it all here. In 2009, online furniture sales increased by 31% when compared to the previous year.
5. Go local. It may seem counter intuitive but finding a local furniture can actually end up cheaper than a national chain. For starters, they tend to be friendlier and more willing to get you a good deal. Furthermore, the smaller places often have exquisite handmade real wood pieces as opposed to factory built veneers you find in large chains. 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!
My point is, don’t be put off from buying those big household essentials at this time. You could end up with a great deal
Maroon 5 – Never Gonna Leave This Bed
