Pull the strings on your budget, and you’ll find loads of opportunities that you would’ve otherwise ignored. Take the humble sofa, for instance. While buying a second-hand sofa is a great way of saving up, it’ll also help you reduce your carbon footprint. People moving out of town or abroad, hotels opting for an upgrade or someone who has developed a fetish for a new design – all may be looking to part with their existing sofa sets.
1. Bring Out The Measuring Tape
Before getting carried away by an attractive price tag, don’t forget to check the dimensions of the sofa. Do pay attention to the dimensions of your doors to make sure that the sofa can be brought in easily.
Considering the time and effort that you’d invest in finding that perfect couch, you wouldn’t want it to be stuck in your front door instead of sitting pretty in your living room!
2. Try It Before You Buy It
Buying a second-hand sofa online is surely a convenient option. However attractive the photos, it is easy to overlook small yet significant aspects like possible damages, odor and the exact condition of the couch. When you do finally see it, don’t forget to assess the supporting portions like the legs, the base and the armrest.
3. Evaluate Objectively
Are the damages superficial or does the used sofa set need some TLC? Perhaps, you can get rid of the odor through steam cleaning. If it comes with removable cushions, would you be able to replace it? Ask yourself these questions.
More importantly, every time you answer “yes” gets the cash register ringing elsewhere. Either by way of time (if you are a DIY-er) or cost (if you want to get it done elsewhere) – any sort of refurbishing means something extra. This gives you a perspective while negotiating with the seller.
4. Have A Candid Conversation With The Seller
While you’re likely to land on a great bargain with second-hand furniture, you wouldn’t want an upholstered sofa with pest issues like bed bugs that can cause havoc at home. For wooden furniture, be sure to check if it’s worn out, or if it has termite issues.
Don’t forget to talk to the previous owner regarding these specific concerns.
5. Double Check 2-in-1s
Pull outs and other forms of used sofa cum bed or sofas with storage can be tricky too. Are the hinges right? Is the base sagging? If you plan to use it regularly, you may want to check the sofa set thoroughly. Not only will you lose sleep due to discomfort but you’ll also lose the money you’ve spent.
Antique or functional, chic or comfortable – sofas are almost an integral portion of living spaces. If clothes maketh a man, sofas maketh a home. When you have the option of doing so and saving money, why not just go do that!