Sunday, August 21, 2011

Bragging about...FURNITURE

When you move to a new place, you often face one of two challenges - your existing furniture doesn't work or you need more furniture for the space.


After paying either your down payment or your security deposit, depending on whether you're buying or renting, you probably don't feel like shelling out more cash for that dresser you desperately need. At the same time, you don't want your new place to look like a garage sale with a mess of mismatching furniture.


Plus, furniture shopping is EXHAUSTING. My tip on bargain hunting - pack snacks, a water bottle, and a book. This way you can easily energize and when standing on long lines, you'll have a book to distract you.


So, here are my tips on how to get QUALITY furniture at a fraction of the cost:


1) For those great accent pieces, side chairs, or benches, go to Home Goods or TJMaxx. They sell gorgeous pieces at 1/3 of the cost or less!! The catch - you have to shop early and often to find those deals, so don't get discouraged if you go on an off day and don't find anything to your liking because they get new inventory EVERY DAY!


- Sometimes the pieces are slightly damaged, so you have to assess if it's an easy fix. Something like a knob can easily be replaced at Home Goods itself because they sell a set of knobs/handles. Chipped paint, easy fix. Broken wood, keep walking.


2) Love Crate & Barrel but hate the prices? Check out their floor sample sales. Often priced 50% off or lower, you can get that desk you've been eyeing with just a little bit of TLC - again just a quick touch-up and you're good to go.


If that doesn't do the trick, check out CB2. CB2 is Crate and Barrel's lower priced store that offers quality, trendy furniture that is perfect for new home owners and apartment goers alike. For example, you can get the latest drumshade angled floor lamp for $130 less than Crate & Barrel.


3) For fun basic furniture pieces, try West Elm but be sure you're aware of the sales. Like Crate and Barrel, they offer a sale section in the back, floor sample sales, and serious discounts when opening a credit card. I know, I know. But 10% back when you're purchasing a new dining set is KEY! Plus, you earn West Elm bucks every time. Sooo, worst-case scenario: Get the credit card, purchase what you need, and close it shortly thereafter.


4) For bedroom sets, side tables, and coffee tables, try Overstock.com. Only buy things with at least a 4.5 rating and over 10 people's reviews. Then, go ahead and get that nightstand for only $150 a piece - brand new! You end up with quality furniture for IKEA prices!


5) For TV stands and mud room benches, try Target. Target offers modern, do-it-yourself furniture that resemble West Elm and Crate and Barrel. A little frustration with furniture assembly and you get a lot of bang for your buck.


6) For home decor accent pieces, dare I say it? Go to IKEA! Just browse their showrooms, get ideas, and go downstairs to pick up the pieces!


Once you've filled your space, kick back with some HGTV and marvel at how your home looks pretty damn good - good enough to be on TV.


Got any Furniture Steals to Brag About? 
BRAG AWAY! 

3 comments:

  1. Thanks for your blog. It's just in time for my trip to the shops for some modern furniture in los angeles. I hope to find good pieces from your tips. Thanks a bunch!

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  2. When my husband and I moved in Australia, after a few days of arranging our stuff on where it should go, I realized I need some additional furniture. You are correct, the large amount of space will prompt you to visit furniture stores and see what can fill an empty space. I make a mental note not to lose my head with all the beautiful furniture pieces that I see.

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