Top 5 Ways to Save Money on Your Next Furniture Purchase

1. Buy on Sale

The best times to find furniture bargains are in January and July. If you’re looking for a good deal on outdoor furniture, wait until August--you’ll be sitting pretty the next time summer rolls around

2. Check the Outlets

Many regional and national furniture retailers have outlet centers where discontinued, distressed and returned merchandise is marked down substantially. Make it a habit to visit these outlets regularly—you never know when the right piece is going to be waiting for you

3. Surf the Net

If you see something you like in a store or magazine, check the Web. Enter the manufacturer’s name and the name of the model in a search engine such as Google, or try a comparative pricing site like Price Grabber. Don’t judge a merchant by price alone—check out their shipping costs, as well, and whether sales tax will be applied to your purchase.

4. Buy from the Source

High Point, N.C., is the center for American furniture manufacturing. Some dealers in High Point sell directly to consumers. You’ll also find ads for a few in the back of home design magazines. (Be prepared to give the name of the manufacturer and model when you call.) If you live within driving distance of High Point, you can shop directly. Check out Ellen R. Shapiro’s Shopping the North Carolina Furniture Outlets : How to Save 50-80% on Your Next Furniture Purchase for more information.

5. Buy Used

Although one often hears tales of priceless antiques and pedigreed period pieces languishing on the sidewalk, a more practical approach is to visit an upscale resale or consignment shop. You can find them in most major cities, and the quality can be excellent. Years ago, I picked up a designer console table for just $400 in one such store, and later saw the same piece in a high-end wholesale showroom for several times that amount.