How to buy used furniture

If you’re on a tight budget, buying second-hand furniture is the best way to furnish your space. Whether it’s an office or home, there are different types of used furniture to suit various spaces.

Here are some handy tips on how to buy used furniture.

1. Identify where you're buying from

There are a lot of places to choose from when looking for used furniture. Knowing where to buy your furniture will help you narrow down to what you need. Some of the different options you can consider include the following:

Consignment shops
Online platforms like Craigslist, Etsy, Facebook Marketplace, etc
Thrift stores
Garage sales

2. Get the correct measurements

Imagine being excited that you found the perfect piece, only to realise that it doesn’t fit in the designated space. Taking the right measurement of the available space and the furniture you’re looking to get will save you the trouble. Instead of eyeballing, a simple tape measure will do the trick for accurate measurements.

3. Check the quality

You should scrutinise each piece carefully to ascertain the quality and value of the furniture. One way to determine whether a piece is worth it or worthless is by looking at the material it’s made of. For instance, solid wood is more sturdy than veneered or composite.

You should also check the construction of the furniture; dovetailed joints are an indication of quality. If the furniture has minor imperfections that can be easily fixed, you shouldn’t disregard it completely especially if it’s of great quality.

4. Check for bedbugs

Bedbugs are a huge nightmare for anyone that’s why it’s crucial to carefully look out for them when purchasing second hand furniture. You should also look out for how the furniture smells. You certainly don’t want to buy furniture that will have your place smelling bad.

5. Test the furniture

Once you’ve established the quality and construction of the furniture, it’s time to test it out. If you’re buying a used desk or table, you should shake it to see whether the legs are wobbly. Seating on a chair or sofa will help you determine whether it can carry your weight and how comfortable it is.

6. Only buy what you need

When looking at used furniture, it’s easy to come across unique items that interest you. However, it’s advisable to buy only what you need to avoid wasting any money or spending beyond your budget. This will also ensure that you get value for your money.

7. Don't be afraid to negotiate

Negotiating can help you get a better deal. Depending on where you’re making your purchase, you might find the prices are fixed but they might have delivery services.

With the tips highlighted above, you can easily get secondhand furniture without breaking the bank. Not forgetting the unique quality pieces you get from various sellers. With this guidance, you can easily get the best used furniture for your space.