I need some help. My husband and I are moving and we need a new couch. We would really like a new sectional, and went out recently to look at Art Van, Sofa Mart, and Lazy Boy. Talk about sticker shock! The ones we liked were at least $2000. I was thinking more along the lines of $1000. We checked out Value City (not the best quality) and would prefer not to go the craigslist or secondhand route if possible.
So my question is, is there any way to save money on a new couch? Obviously, we'll keep our eyes peeled for sales at furniture stores, but are there ever coupons for furniture, or is there some other way to save money? My husband wants to try and barter with the salesperson a little...is that commonly done in furniture stores?
Re: Okay, all you deal-savvy women...
Bartering is fine, though I do not think they will come down $1000. Memorial Day weekend may be a good weekend to look for deals.
Also, have you checked out the Highpoint, NC stores? That is where most furniture is manufactured and you may find deals... you can google online.
Also, look for department stores that have a furniture "outlet". I bought my bedroom furniture at Macy's Furniture Outlet. It was beautiful, and I never even saw a scratch on it. It was double the price in the actual store.
Ok, the interior designer in me has to say something. First, I totally agree with checking for Memorial Day sales at furniture stores-they're usually huge. I don't know of 'coupons' or anything like that for furniture, so I think your best bet is the sale. Negotiating the price down is fine too-another thing to think of when you're negotiating is to see what the delivery charge is. Sometimes it's free, if not, it can cost a bundle. If nothing else, see if they'll throw that in for free (never hurts to ask).
But here's my furniture advice-mainly applying to couches. I am a thrifty person in general, always trying to find a great deal and spend the least amount possible on things, BUT, if you're planning on having your couch for a while (and really, aren't we all?) AND if it's going to be your main couch-like in your family room or something, don't skimp. So many things can go wrong with poorly made couches, especially when kids are involved. ie:back cushion springs popping through the back fabric, arms not holding shape due to literally being fabric and batting staples over cardboard, poor cushion filling causing distorted cushions, and all the problems with inexpensive fabrics-poor wear and tear, staining, blah blah blah. All that being said, I personally also don't have the money to be spending $5000+ on a great couch (and not all expensive couches are properly made). I would definitely do your research.
Definitely look for a good deal, but then look and see how the springs were constructed-a bunch of options, but steer clear of zig-zag coils, and go more towards 8-way tied. Wood construction? Cheaper ones are pine, better ones are hard woods. Cushion filling-filled down or foam? etc, etc, etc. As long as you KNOW what you're buying, you can make an informed decision, and can get something that will last you a long time.
If I had to cut corners, first place I'd personally do it (and DID do it) was with cushion filling. Down filled is plush and beautiful, but they need to constantly be fluffed, and weren't as "tailored" as I was looking for. I went with foam which cut the cost significantly, but make sure to look for a thick dense foam which won't wear and distort.
I know you didn't ask for all this info, but hope it helps you a little...
If you have an Ashley Furniture store or Outlet near you try them. We just got a sectional sofa in sage from an outlet store near us for just over $1000 and that included $100 for stainguard and $80 for delivery!!! it was the second week of april when we got it.
Ashley carries quality things too. Good luck. Oh and you might get a deal if you offer to pay cash--some stores are in to that type of bartering
I want to say that I would NOT recommend Sofa Mart couches. DH bought one only a few months before we met and we've been using it every since. It's almost 3 years old and it's AWFUL! The cushions are all out of shape, we hear a spring noise when you sit down and the fabric is not holding up. My parents have a couch they bought 30 years ago that is in better shape than this 3 year old couch! I'm waiting for the day we move into a house and move that couch into the basement for the kids to have a hay day with!
Like another poster said, you don't want to skimp. Do you have a Nebraska Furniture Mart or American Furniture Warehouse? Both have some awesome affordable furniture.
GL!!!