People have high expectations when shopping for new furniture. A big-ticket purchase like this comes saddled with emotional significance, a list of requirements, and a reluctance to make the final decision for fear of missing out on a better deal. You might even ask, is it worth buying furniture in your area?
It is understandable; purchasing new furniture is not like getting a new phone or even a new car. Unless you’re extremely financially stable, you would usually need to spread out buying pieces over a period of months or even years. To make sure you’re deciding well and to prevent yourself from feeling buyers’ remorse, ask yourself the following questions when shopping.
1. Do I have enough information when deciding?
When you have your floor plan or swatches of the room where you’ll put your furniture, this helps you make better decisions when you’re in the store. Sometimes a decision may be influenced by the display or the way a piece looks when arranged in a showroom; having your swatches and floor plan will help you ‘see’ the piece in the context of your home.
Measure your spaces carefully. Don’t assume that just because you live in a place, you can determine by eye what pieces fit into your space. Take note of the dimensions that will work best with your space. You would not want to have your heart set on a piece of furniture only to realize that it needs a bigger space than what you have at home.
2. Am I basing my decision on the price?
Some people can purchase furniture without considering the price. For others, their budget takes precedence over any purchase. However, this should not be the only factor for deciding which pieces fit in your home.
Another significant consideration is style; something timeless but costs a little higher will be a better value for your money in the long run. It won’t do to purchase a cheap and trendy dining set, for example, which falls into disrepair or becomes outdated in a matter of months.
Price is also not an indicator of quality. You might be paying extra for the ‘privilege’ of having a certain furniture manufacturer’s name on your items, when you could be getting something more inexpensive but of comparable craftsmanship.
3. Are my decisions too rational?
Normally, you would want to make decisions that are logical and show careful thinking. However, listening to your intuition is a large part of the design, and shopping for furniture should involve trusting your gut.
If everyone around you likes a particular stool, for example, but you are not a fan, do not get pressured into choosing it because the majority likes it. State your opinion on a piece, and don’t be afraid of displeasing your companions or the salesperson. As long as you’re coming from a genuine place, your friends will understand. Furthermore, the salesperson is there to help you find the best fit for you, and not for them; they will respect whatever decisions you make.
4. Am I closing myself off to possibilities?
Do not close yourself off to other designs or styles, either. Just because you have a good idea of what looks great in your space, it does not mean other designs will not fit. Open yourself up to suggestions, and you might be pleasantly surprised.
Conclusion
Buying furniture is a significant commitment since you will be living with those pieces for a while. Make the right decision by preparing for furniture shopping. Do not let yourself be constrained by what you ‘should’ buy, what looks nice according to others, or a feeling of needing to go for the cheapest option.
For advice on where to buy furniture in North Carolina, or how to shop for a particular piece of furniture, visit our online directory for furniture stores in North Carolina today. We can provide you with the best furniture related tips and tricks!
