7 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Furniture Shopping
When you’re tired of your old furniture, it seems like you can’t replace it fast enough. Every television ad and magazine spread make even the drabbest furnishings look enticing, encouraging you all the more to replace your pieces ASAP. Being overly-eager to invest in new furniture, however, can leave you vulnerable to making some all-too-common blunders. Before you rush to your local Sarasota furniture store and purchase the first living room set that catches your eye, check out these mistakes that people often make when furniture shopping.
Not Measuring the Space
Is there anything worse than falling in love with a piece of furniture only to realize that it’s entirely too small for your room? Or worse, it won’t even fit through your entryway? Save yourself the trouble of wasting time and money on furniture that doesn’t fit properly in your home by measuring the space before you buy anything to go in it. Don’t forget to include the measurements of any entryways, passages, and stairs that the furniture will have to travel through as well.
Not Doing Your Research
Do some online browsing to see what styles are available along with what you like and don’t like. This will give you a good idea of what the current trends are in interior design, as well as look at reviews from fellow customers who have bought pieces that you’re interested in. Knowing what’s on the market will prevent you from buying a piece of furniture too quickly only to realize you like a different style better when it’s too late.
Neglecting Your Budget
Furniture shopping can get expensive, causing you to spend more money than you intended if you aren’t careful. To prevent going overboard and splurging on an item that you’ll later regret, set a budget before you make any big decisions. Setting a budget in advance will let you know exactly what’s available to you when you step foot in the furniture store.
Not Thinking Long-Term
You may live in a spacious four-bedroom home now, but what about when you downsize in the next few years. Be sure to keep your future plans in mind when you go furniture shopping, especially if you plan on investing in a piece that you intend to hold onto for the long haul. While an extra-large sectional may seem like a good idea right now, it might not be the best seating arrangement for your quaint studio apartment next year.
Choosing the Wrong Size Rug
An area rug can make or break the overall appeal of a room. Because of this, it’s never a good idea to buy an area rug without taking into consideration the size of the space and furniture that will be accompanying it. Often times, people choose rugs that are too small for their rooms, making their rooms look even smaller. How do you know if your rug is the right size? Ideally, the front two legs of each piece of furniture should be on it. If they’re off it, you need a bigger rug.
Not Considering Your Lifestyle
Be careful not to buy furniture that you love without considering the practicality of the piece you’re purchasing. As much as you love the velvet armchair you found on Pinterest, it may not be the best option if you have small children or messy pets at home. Instead, a leather recliner or something that’s easier to clean may be a more viable option for your family.
Buying a Matching Set
Designing a room like a pro means mixing and matching pieces. Fight the urge to buy the whole matching set straight off the showroom floor, which is sure to strip your space of personality and warmth. Finding pieces that complement each other rather than match perfectly is the secret to having a home that exudes warmth and charm.
Learn More About Furniture Shopping
What’s the bottom line when it comes to shopping for furniture like a pro? Don’t rush the process. You’ll be much more satisfied with the pieces that you decide on knowing that you took the time to ensure they were the perfect ones for you. To help you find the perfect furnishings for your space, style, and budget, Matter Brothers Furniture is here to help. Visit one of our five convenient showroom locations or contact us today.
