How To Buy High Quality Furniture At Estate Sales
Everyone loves high-quality, solid wood furniture - but many people feel that they cannot afford such luxury
. Fortunately, estate sales and auctions are an excellent place to pick up gently used or even antique furniture at prices considerably less than retail. While it might take patience, it is possible to find reasonable prices on excellent pieces that will last for generations -- saving you money in the long run.
Before you go to an estate sale, make a list of all the furniture you need. Measure spaces so you know what will fit, and bring a tape measure to check the furniture at the event. You might also consider taking a few pictures of rooms with your digicam or phone so that you have an easy reference of existing design and color. If you are concerned regarding exact color matching, bring fabric or paint swatches along as well. You'll want to be sure about what you buy, as returns won't be possible.
Estate sales are usually comprised of a lifetime's worth of items from a deceased person's household, or a family who is downsizing or moving. You may need to attend several of these events to find the right item at the right price. However, many estate sale companies will publish lists of some of the items that will be available beforehand on their web site. Also, you can sign up to be notified of sales in advance. This can help you determine which events are worth your time.
Some sales may have an auction format. In the case of such events, be sure you keep the maximum price you will pay in mind for each item on your list. It's easy to get carried away by the excitement of bidding.
Many estate sales, however, are "tag sales" where each item is labeled with a price beforehand. Negotiation on prices is possible (and even expected); however, don't expect finds at garage sale prices. Professional estate sale companies hire appraisers to ascertain fair market value on items.
Should you happen across an event where your tastes match up well with the previous owner's, you may find an entire room's worth of matched furnishings that you like. When buying many items, you have more negotiating power - be sure to use this to your advantage to get a better price.
Most estate sales are at least a few days long. Those who show up early on the first day have the best selection and the first crack at the most desirable items. However, the real bargains are to be found on the last day. Fewer items will be left, but negotiation is far more possible.
As you search estate sales for furniture, try to keep an open mind. Small tables, dressers and shelves are common finds that can be used in many different ways. As an example, dressers can be used to store items in a kitchen or bathroom, and steamer trunks or chests can make great coffee tables.
Once you find a piece you like, you'll want to check it over carefully. Pay less attention to surface dings, as they can be easily repaired - you want to look for sturdiness and solid construction. Items can be repainted or refinished fairly cheaply. Opt for solid wood, or plywood that has at least 9 layers, for the best quality. Be aware that any pieces with knots in the wood may be more susceptible to cracking. Joints that are held together with staples or nails, or obviously glued, are signs of poor construction. Press down on corners to make sure the piece doesn't wobble and that all legs touch the floor.
For upholstered furniture, it is important to keep in mind that fabric deteriorates over time and stuffing or foam can harbor mold or dust. Some people like to buy pieces with solid frames for re-upholstering, but this can be expensive. Be sure you know how much re-upholstering and any other repairs will cost before you make an offer.
The list you made before the auction should help, but at almost any good estate sale there will be many tempting things that you may not really "need". Try to stay within your budget, but don't be afraid to snap up a bargain if you see one! You never know what treasure you may find to enhance your home.
by: Stephen Daniels
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