Are you considering buying budget-friendly furniture, but don’t want to sacrifice the quality? Whether you’re furnishing a new home or looking to spruce up your current space, buying used furniture is a great option, offering affordability and a unique stamp on your interior decor. However, there are a few pitfalls to avoid when buying used furniture to make sure you get the best deal. From assessing the condition to bargaining effectively, this article will run through the best ways to navigate the world of used furniture, and what to keep in mind before you buy.

Poor condition warnings for used furniture

The first thing to consider when buying used furniture is the condition of the piece. It’s critical to assess the structural integrity and overall condition of the item, as this may determine how long it will be of use, and therefore whether it’s worth even making the initial investment. To make this process more straightforward, look out for these signature warning signs.

Termites & Bugs

For wooden items, it’s crucial to check for signs of pests such as bed bugs or termites, which can cause significant damage to the furniture itself, and pose health risks. Wooden furniture that has not received adequate termite protection may present hollowed or weakened wood, ‘mud tubes’ running along the exterior, discarded wings around the floor, or buckling paint. To assess for bedbugs, look for small reddish-brown stains or spots and bed bug shells or eggs along upholstery seams and crevices.

Damp Smell

A nasty smell is the easiest deal breaker to identify when looking for possible problems. Sniff for musty smells that may indicate the presence of mould or mildew, which are big red flags for used furniture. If moisture is able to easily access the furniture, it won’t be long before bugs find a home in it, and if it’s made of wood – before the whole thing starts to rot and collapse. So don’t neglect this warning sign, even if you’re on the lookout for outdoor furniture and think the smell won’t affect you if it’s outside.

Structural Damage

When examining used furniture you should carefully look for signs of damage or wear that could compromise the stability of the item. For example, look for cracks in wooden surfaces, tears in upholstery or bends in metal frames. These imperfections can suggest underlying issues with the structure of the item. Identifying big flaws like this early can help prevent future accidents and ensure long-term durability with your choices.

Potential concerns to look out for in used furniture

The following may not be the deciding factor between whether or not you decide to purchase an item, but may indicate some future concerns or bargaining points you can use to secure a better deal.

Sturdiness

When assessing the quality of an item, make sure to check the joints, legs, and support systems to guarantee the furniture’s stability. To do this, you’ll want to focus on areas where pieces are joined together, such as at the corners or seams. These are common areas for weakness that may indicate unsuitable furniture for rehoming. Testing the sturdiness of legs and support structures by applying gentle pressure can also uncover any non-visible defects.

Functionality

When assessing purpose-driven furniture such as cupboards or desks, make sure to test every draw and hinge. Test each draw by ensuring they slide in and out without sticking or jamming. To inspect hinges, check for signs of rust, looseness or wear-and-tear. A chair is no good if it breaks when you sit on it – even if it’s a beautiful work of art from the 1940s.

Aesthetic 

More superficial defects such as scratches, dents or stains should also be identified if aesthetics are important to you, however, they are generally more easily restored than structural issues. Evaluate the extent of the cosmetic damage and determine if it is repairable before you purchase, or consider asking for a discount on account of it.

Researching the brand and material 

Research the manufacturer’s reputation with a focus on quality and durability. Consider customer reviews, as suppliers can use marketing jargon to upsell you, when you could get a better deal elsewhere. When assessing the quality of a material, investigate its durability and susceptibility to degradation. Try to find out the origins of the materials to assess potential health hazards associated with vintage items such as lead-based paint, asbestos or formaldehyde. Asbestos may be found in items with insulation or fireproofing materials, and formaldehyde based adhesives may be found in pressed wood items, manufactured before more strict regulations came into force. 

Negotiating and bargain hunting

Before confirming the price, you should make sure you’re getting the best deal. It is vital you know the market value of the piece before you agree to the sale. Researching market prices is an essential part of the negotiating process, as information equals bargaining power.  To do this, compare other sellers of the product or similar products online, as well as newer models. Make sure to consider factors like condition and demand for the item, as some vintage items are highly sought out and vendors will ask for a higher price accordingly. Be prepared to negotiate by highlighting flaws for potential discounts on the item. Have an ideal price in mind, and start a bit lower to get the negotiation started. Whilst negotiating, you can inquire about the inclusion of delivery, assembly or warranties for higher prices offered, especially if the seller is unwilling to budge.

Setup of the furniture

The final step before enjoying your new furniture is the delivery and setup. Measure the space in its intended location and consider the accessibility when purchasing the furniture. If there isn’t enough space, you’ll have to decide whether moving other items around or picking something different is more important to you.    If delivery isn’t included in the cost, consider hiring a van or getting a friend to help you drive the furniture to its intended location. Make sure this process doesn’t void the warranty of the item. To prepare for the setup, plan the final placement of the furniture and have the necessary tools ready for installation. You can buy tools from the local hardware store, borrow from a friend or neighbour or even rent the tools for short term use, to prevent wastage.   ~   With all that, you can relax on your old-but-new sofa, dine from your vintage table or recline on your pre-loved but restored bed. Hopefully this article will help you find the perfect fit for your humble abode. And remember, it’s always best to check out furniture in person if you can, especially for those big purchases such as tables, beds and chairs. Though it may be a hassle, it will save you the pain of trying to track down another in a few months if the standard of quality isn’t what was advertised online. With the pointers above you’ll know what you should be looking out for before you agree on a deal, and make sure you choose the right second-hand furniture for your home.