Used Furniture: Designer Look at Low Cost

Everyone knows that buying used furniture is a great way to save money.  Some people seem to be able to acquire expensive furniture in perfect condition for a fraction of the original cost while others get home with a sofa, only to find out that it smells strongly of cat urine in damp weather. How can you be one of the lucky ones?
There are ways to check and make sure that you are getting a great deal. When shopping for used furniture patience is the key. You can find that wing back chair in exactly the color you are looking for but it may take several months. Be willing to wait, to think outside the box, and most of all, be flexible. In doing so you can give your home a designer look on a budget.

Garage Sales
Garage sales, tag sales, and yard sales are obvious places to find furniture deals. You will more than likely need cash. Draw out enough cash before you go to garage sales in case you find something you really love.

Craigslist
Craigslist is an online garage sale and so much more. Not only can you find furniture at low prices, you can sometimes find it for free. Some people just are ready to make space at home and offer their old things to anyone who will take them. While you can get some excellent deals this way, there are pitfalls to watch for.

• Don’t wait. If you see something that would be perfect for you contact the seller immediately. Make an appointment to see the item and then keep the appointment. Here are some tips:
• Always take at least one other person with you.
• Always let other people know where you will be going, including the address.
• Go with your gut feelings, if something seems to be not quite right then stay away.
• Don’t be afraid to remove cushions, check springs and put your nose right up to the fabric and give it the sniff test.

Thrift Stores
Thrift stores are everywhere. Some are run by churches, others by charities, and still others are privately owned. Two of the biggest are Salvation Army and Goodwill.
Buying used furniture from a thrift shop may cost a little more than Craigslist but you will be supporting a good cause. Also, the items are generally in good condition. Thrift stores are a great place to pick up antiques and vintage furniture.

EBay
It is more difficult to find inexpensive used furniture on eBay, although it can be done. Generally eBay is a great for finding antiques and vintage items. If you do find a great deal on eBay remember that you will have to either arrange for shipping or pick it up yourself.

Used Furniture Stores and Consignment Shops
While you may pay more at a consignment shop for furniture you will generally find upscale furniture in pristine condition. Used furniture stores are sort of the poor relative of consignment shops, offering great savings but generally the furniture is not upscale.

Maybe you find a great item but it is in well worn condition. What can you do?

Paint is an excellent way to cover up problems on wood furniture. Painting a wooden table white or cream, and then adding painted embellishments creates a sweet cottage look, while other techniques allow you to create something contemporary. Techniques include:

• Faux finishes
• Stenciling
• Distressing
• Antiquing

Upholstered furniture can look like new with the right slipcover or upholstery. If the item is high quality and in good condition then it is worth investing the money to make it look like new. My Romantic Home is a great blog that will feed your creative muse as you wander through the pages. Etsy is another place to get great ideas for updating furniture creatively.

With some patience and creativity you can furnish your home in a style that is uniquely yours. Don’t be afraid to take chances and experiment with different techniques.