Have you ever made a furniture purchase only to regret it later? Buying the wrong furniture pieces for your home can be frustrating and costly. You may be saving money in the short-term, but the chances are you’re not going to be happy with your purchase over the long term.
Knowing what mistakes to avoid when buying home furniture will help you make better choices in the future. Below are some of the common mistakes to be aware of:
1. Not thinking about practicality. Ask yourself if the piece will fit in the space, and if it meets your needs. Will it be comfortable? Does it have adequate storage? Consider how often it will be used and if it will last.
2. Not measuring twice. Measuring is the best way to ensure that the piece of furnishing will fit both the room and your lifestyle. Take all measurements carefully and double-check for accuracy.
3. Not looking for quality. Focusing on price over quality can be tempting, but remember you don’t want to end up paying more in the long run due to inferior quality. Seemingly low price tags may be hiding serious flaws. Instead, pay attention to the construction, make, fabric, and frame.
4. Ignoring style. Keeping the floor plan and color scheme in mind is essential when selecting furniture. If you have an open-concept layout, aim for pieces that are complementary in style and scale. To create a cohesive look, select pieces that pair well both visually and functionally.
5. Not considering lifestyle changes. You may not anticipate lifestyle changes like growing family or the need for an in-home office. Plan ahead when selecting furniture and think of pieces that can adapt over time. Choose pieces that can grow with you as the years go by.
6. Not shopping around. Shopping around for furniture can provide great savings as well as a better selection. Utilize online sources to look for sales, compare prices, find designer models, and access specialty stores.
7. Not considering comfort. Comfort should be the number 1 priority when shopping for furniture. If you’re buying a couch make sure you sit on it for a few minutes; if you’re buying a bed make sure to lay on it for a few minutes to assess the comfort.
When making an investment in a piece of furniture, consider how it will fit into your overall home aesthetic, how it will age, and if it will fit your current lifestyle. Don’t succumb to impulse buying, take your time to research the options to avoid any future furniture regrets.
#1 Evaluate Your Furniture Wants
Furniture shopping can be overwhelming, so be prepared and know what you want. Consider the space, measure it out, and make a list of the pieces you need for the area. Begin with research to determine the measurements, styles, and budget needed to get the desired look.
#2 Hire A Professional
To narrow down the choices and assess the best quality of craftsmanship, work with an experienced furniture professional. Ask if they specialize in certain design styles, the fabric and material usage, and the quality of the construction. Even if a piece looks good, inquire further to ensure it will survive the wear and use of everyday life.
#3 Get A Look At The Construction
Check the construction of furniture that you are looking to buy. Before you even pick it up, check to make sure it is steady on the floor. Look for even legs, stable underframes, and all parts aligned. A closer examination should reveal sturdy joints, quality hardwoods, and balanced components.
#4 Research The Delivery Options
Be aware of how long the delivery will take and if there is an extra fee for the service. Read up on the company’s return policy in case you don’t like the furniture or you discover a defect. Familiarize yourself with the item number for any future replacements and know the proper care instructions for spills, stains, and other damages.
#5 Rely On Your Instincts
You may find a must-have piece of furniture, but don’t buy it if it doesn’t feel good or fit the space correctly. This is especially true when comparing furniture stores- if you feel a sales representative is being too pushy, look elsewhere to make a purchase.
#6 Anticipate Your Children’s Needs
If you have children, consider the impact of their activities – if you plan on getting a sofa, purchase something that can take wear and tear. Look for pieces with removable and washable slipcovers, and go for quality fabrics that age well over time.
#7 Inspect The Furniture When It Is Delivered
Once you’ve done your research and purchased the perfect piece of furniture for your lifestyle, carefully inspect the item when it’s delivered to your home. Make sure that it has no torn fabric or scratches and is free from dents and damages. Assure that the furniture is crafted with the promised materials and check the details such as the fabric texture, shine, and colour. If something is not up to your standards, you can return the piece for a replacement or get a refund.