BUYING USED FURNITURE: WHAT TO LOOK FOR & HOW TO USE IT

Decorating with previously used furniture can not only save you a great deal of money, but it can give your home a unique quality that you won’t find in a run-of-the-mill new furniture store.  Still, as with anything that’s been in someone else’s possession, it’s wise to make sure you’re investing in a quality piece before you put the time and effort into redoing it.

If there was a manual about what to look for, perhaps making the right choices would be easier; however, in lieu of strict guidelines, here are some things to keep in mind:

1.) LOOK AT THE LINES—Much like looking past the puke-green walls in a possible home remodel, buying used furniture can be a steal if you work hard to pay attention to what the actual frame will look like when it’s redone. 

2.)  EXAMINE THOSE CUSHIONS—Surprisingly, foam can be pretty pricey, so if you’re able to reuse the existing cushions, you’ll save a good bit of money.  Therefore, pay attention to whether the foam is nice and firm, or whether it simply crumbles under your fingertips.  Decide accordingly.

3.) DON’T FEAR SIMPLE FIXES—For minor issues, the end result will generally be worth any effort that goes into fixing simple scratches or upholstery problems.  Don’t let them dissuade you from buying the perfect piece.

4.) WATCH YOUR WALLET—If saving money is your goal, before you get too attached to that $60 price tag, make sure you factor in the very real cost of getting your find redone.  Even with cushions that remain in great shape, it’s important to pay attention to how much new fabric will cost, as well as the price you’ll pay to have it reupholstered.

5.) KNOW YOUR SPACE LIMITS—Yes, we all tend to get a bit carried away when we spy something we love; however, make sure you actually have the extra space.  There’s no point in spending money on something that won’t fit anywhere in your home.