Couch Shopping
There are plenty of people out there that get excited about buying a new couch, but it is also common for feelings of dread and dismay to emerge at this sometimes overwhelming prospect. What can I afford? What style of couch do I want? What will fit into my living room? When are the best sales?
These are just a few of the questions that you might encounter when you start on this journey, and they are all valid questions. Luckily, I am going to address each question for you. You may not find the exact answer you are looking for, but perhaps you will find some guidance to lead you down the right path.
What can I afford?
This is the most important question of all, and a great starting point. Make sure to really explore this detail before you even begin shopping. Once you are in the thick of it, comparing this couch to that couch, it all becomes a blur. It is easy to fall into the trap of “for just a little bit more I could get this”. And then pretty soon, you have spent twice as much as you originally wanted to. Many furniture stores offer financing options, which is great, but set a budget before you go and only look at furniture pieces that fall into your price range. Avoiding temptation is your best bet.
What style of couch do I want?
Once you decide how much you want to spend on your new purchase, it’s time to think style. Think about what you use the couch most for. Is it lounging and watching movies? Or entertaining? Depending on how much time you plan to spend on it, you may consider an overstuffed model built for comfort. But if modern is more your aesthetic, maybe a minimalist design is more your speed.
What will fit into my living room?
Part of this process involves finding the right design to fit with your current furniture, but the other side of this is the actual physical dimensions of your space. Make sure to take a tape measure with you when you go shopping. Before you leave the house measure not only the space that the couch will go in, but the doorway that it will have to fit through.
When are the best sales?
Most major holidays are a time that furniture stores advertise their biggest sales. This may mean a reduction in prices or a better financing rate. But sometimes you can find discounted furniture when newer models come out. If you find a store that you really like, it is a good idea to get on their mailing list so you will know when the best deals are coming up.
Buying a couch is an investment, and not one to be taken lightly. There is a wide price range and a general rule of thumb is, you get what you pay for. If a brand new couch is a little out of your budget, try looking at estate sales or second hand stores. Steam cleaners are powerful tools and may be all that you need if you find a hidden gem. Comfort, style, and price are your guidelines to live by. Happy shopping!