Shopping for furniture can be tricky, but with the right strategies and knowledge, you can walk away a happy customer. Before you hit the furniture stores, get informed on essential tips such as budgeting, evaluating quality and durability, and researching store policies.

Research Your Options in Advance. 

Before you hit the furniture stores, make sure that you’ve done some research. Start by researching the different types of materials, styles and designs available, so that you can narrow down your selection when you arrive at the store. Spending time in front of a computer browsing online is essential for great furniture shopping experiences – and it can also save you time in-store.
Once you have an idea of what you are looking for, check reviews and compare pricing to determine which store carries the items that best fit your needs. Check out store websites in advance, as well. Many stores list promotions on their websites so that you can take advantage of special prices when shopping in-store. Finally, research delivery options – many stores offer free or low-cost delivery options for bulky furniture items, saving you time and energy when it comes to bringing pieces home.
 

Prepare a List of Questions to Ask the Salesperson.

It’s always a good idea to ask questions when you’re shopping for furniture. Prepare a list of questions before you go to the store, so that you don’t forget anything. Consider asking questions about the materials used in their furniture, how long a piece should last, warranty details, fabric cleaning instructions and more. Salespeople can provide a wealth of information and advice that can help you make an informed purchase decision.
Ask about the construction of each piece you’re interested in. Solid wood furniture is usually a more durable choice than particle board, but it all depends on the quality of construction. Think about how you'll use the item to determine how rugged a piece you'll need. Also, ask whether tool-free assembly is available – this way, you don't have to worry about buying tools to put together your furniture when you get home. Finally, be sure to ask for delivery and setup options – some retailers offer discounts when these services are purchased with furniture items. Making sure you know exactly what you're getting before committing can save time money in the long run.
 

Don’t Forget About Comfort and Quality When Shopping. 

Shopping for furniture should be about finding something that looks good, but also makes you feel good. Comfort, quality and durability are key considerations when looking for furniture. Choose fabrics or leathers that are soft against the skin—especially if you plan on spending a lot of time in the pieces you choose. Make sure the construction is good and secure—check out reviews from previous customers online before committing to a purchase.
Don’t forget to check stores in your area—not just online. You’ll be surprised at how many great deals you can find when exploring the offerings of local furniture stores. Visiting a store will give you the opportunity to see the pieces up close and personal, so you can get a better feel for how they look and how well they are made. And don’t underestimate the value of customer service—a good salesperson may be able to help you score a deal or two if you take the time to ask.
 

Make Sure You Check Warranty and Delivery Information before Committing to Buy.

It’s important to read the fine print on any furniture store’s website, or when making a purchase in-store, to make sure you know exactly what rights and responsibilities you have under their terms for delivery, refunds, replacements and warranty. As a smart shopper, it makes sense to ask any staff questions if you don’t understand something before signing the dotted line.
Many furniture stores are upfront about their return policies, delivery and installation fees, and warranties on their websites - but in the case of any more ambiguous matters, it’s best to call the store friendly customer service team or your local store’s sales staff to get clarity. Finding out all you can know ahead of time will not only save you money and stress if something goes wrong with your purchase, but also ensure that you never overpay for a product due to lack of knowledge. Knowing your rights as a customer is always essential - even when wanting to buy a piece of furniture!
 

Think About Your Financial Options Carefully Before Making a Decision.

Like with any big purchase, it’s important to consider your financial options when shopping at a furniture store. You should be aware of any interest-free deals offered by stores online, or in-store promotions where you could get additional discounts. It’s also worth considering whether you can pay for the furniture in full up front, if there are more cost-effective ways to do so, such as installment payments.
It’s also important to read any small print before signing a contract with a furniture store, and make sure you understand exactly what type of payment plans are offered. Be sure to check in on the terms of your agreement frequently, as any additional fees applied could surprise you further down the line if they are not checked properly. Additionally, consider the length of delivery timeframes with each piece of furniture that you order; items that require more time within production can be pricey. By knowing the various financial options before hand and factoring those into your purchase decision, you can come to an informed decision on which store and product is right for you.