Understanding the Real Costs of Home Furniture Stores

Everyone needs furniture, and furniture isn’t exactly easy to store or transport — in the past, buyers have been forced to head to the local brick-and-mortar retailers for beds, sofas, and other heavy-duty items. These stores typically have a limited stock from a small selection of brands.

To compare prices at physical retailers, you’ll need to spend time driving around your city, which works in the retailers' advantage; they’ve got a captive audience, so you’re unlikely to find excellent deals.

Online furniture delivery stores are changing that dynamic. Reasons to shop online:

• A Larger Selection- With some quick searching, you can find hundreds of options for anything you need, and online stores rarely restrict their stock to a single brand. In addition to name-brand mattresses, beds, sofas, and chairs, you’ll find specialty products designed for comfort and affordability.
• Discounts and Low-Cost Delivery- Furniture delivery can be expensive, so to compete with physical retailers, many internet-only stores offer low-cost or free shipping. Some offer other discounts to appeal to new customers. If you’re shopping online, you may also be able to find special discounts from local retailers.
• Customer Service- Because the online furniture market is extremely competitive, many stores offer generous return policies. In other words, if you’re not happy with your purchase, you generally have a window of several days or weeks to return it. Some retailers charge restocking fees or ask customers to cover the costs of shipping — you’ll want to research each store’s policies before placing your order.

By shopping online, you can easily compare costs for similar pieces from different manufacturers. Customer reviews allow you to spot potential issues before you buy, and if you’re working with a set budget, you can use online resources to find affordable furniture that fits with your home’s aesthetic.

What to Look for When Buying Furniture Online

To make the most of your purchase, you’ll need to evaluate your options carefully. The right approach can make that process much easier. Some factors to look for when buying furniture online:

• Assembly Requirements- Some products are shipped pre-assembled, but if a store offers free shipping, chances are good that you’ll need to complete the assembly yourself. Find out whether you’ll need special tools and whether the store offers assembly services.
• Product Descriptions- Check sizes carefully before ordering. Measure the space where the furniture will sit; you’ll also need to measure door ways and staircases. While stores often provide delivery services, they may not move the furniture into your home, so check store policies.
• Read Reviews- Consumer reviews can highlight problems with furniture, which can help you avoid a bad purchase. If you have concerns about a particular product, reach out to the store’s customer service team. If you’re unable to get a response, you may want to move on to the next retailer.

Finally, know when to shop for furniture. Many stores offer deals during major holiday weekends, so by waiting for Labor Day, Memorial Day, or President’s Day, you may be able to cut your costs considerably.

However, you’ll only be able to find bargains if you understand the typical price for a certain item, and the best way to develop that knowledge is through comparison shopping.

Researching Online Furniture Delivery Options

When you need furniture, you want to make your purchase as quickly as possible — nobody enjoys sleeping on a lumpy bed or spending their leisure time on a sub-par couch. However, it’s important not to rush into a decision. Online resources allow you to easily check prices, review options, and order furniture for direct delivery.

Read carefully before placing your order. Look for at least 3-4 stores at the absolute minimum. Even if you’re able to find a bargain on your first try, study the market; you may be able to save more by taking advantage of internet-only discounts, and if you need furniture quickly, you might even be able to use your research to negotiate with local retailers.

The internet gives consumers the power to find high-quality furniture for less. With the right approach, you can improve your home while keeping your budget under control.