Thirfters' guide to buying sofas and armchairs

If you’re shopping for furniture, finding a good quality second-hand sofa or armchair is a great way to save hundreds of dollars. High-end furniture is constructed with quality materials and will last decades compared to bargain furniture that will only last a few years.

One drawback to buying secondhand furniture is a lack of color and fabric selection. You find a great sofa but in last century’s must-have color. There is a solution for that – re-upholstery or custom-fitted slipcovers. Custom-fitted slipcovers are a great way to go. In most cases they are less expensive than re-upholstery and you can wash them to keep your furniture fresh and clean.

Let’s go hunting - Where to look.

There are so many places to find good quality furniture look for a new home:

Consignment stores – The furniture you find in consignment stores are from folks trying to re-home their sofa. They pay a commission to the store to put it in their showroom and selling it. It’s only worth doing this if the furniture was expensive. But don’t be intimidated, just like a yard sale, you can negotiate.

Thrift store – In this case the furniture was donated so less expensive than a consignment store. You will find a mixed bag from passable to WOW.

Furniture stores – All stores have floor models that they need to get rid of. Look for outlet stores in your area or go to the back of the store and talk to a sales person. Just don’t let them talk you into buying the shiny new thing in the window.

In all these cases, don’t just stick to your own neighborhood widen your search. Find out when they get new pieces. Let them know what you’re searching for and ask them to contact you when something comes in.

Estate sales & yard sales – Estate sales are just well-organized yard sales. Look for announcements in your local newspaper or Estate sales.NET on line.

Craigslist & Facebook Market Place – Both of these let you shop from home. New items are listed all the tine so check them every day.

What to look for

If you’re looking for furniture that you can slipcover here’s what to look for.

First of all, walk away from recliners, barrel back furniture, crescent shaped/curvy furniture, furniture with built-in tables and furniture with tufted backs with some exceptions.

Everything that’s left is a good candidate for a slipcover makeover.

How to "kick the tires" on your find.

Cushions – Loose cushions on seat and back are preferable but attached back cushions work as well. Sit on them. If they sink, but you love it, they can be replaced.

Body frame – You want strong bones. Sit on the furniture and wiggle around. Does it squeak? Does it shift around? If yes, defiantly walk away. Nothing can be done to save it.

Bugs & Critters – Take the cushions off and check the seat deck, where the cushions sit. Look for tears. Turn the furniture over to expose the underside. Look for tears. Tears to the liner are common and usually happen when the furniture is being moved. But check to see if anything has made a home.

Manufactures' labels – Look for manufactures' labels and do a web search. If you’re lucky you’ll find the exact model on their web site and see what it cost new. If you can’t find the model, you’ll at least be able to see the price range of furniture from this manufacture.

Is it worth it?

Depending on where you live, a nice sofa looking for a new home can be found for less than $500, and high-end brands for a little over $1000. Then consider that a good quality, affordable sofa can cost $2000 plus and that new and high-end furniture starts at $7000. So, as they say, “Do the math”.

This article, and a handy cost comparison form, is available for free.

Get it HERE and good hunting.

FREE CONSULTATION – If you would like us to evaluate a piece you’ve found to see if it’s “slipcoverable,” send us three photos: front, side and back, to – [email protected]

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