A guide to buying second hand furniture.

When I conduct a home staging report I look at the rooms in your home and their functions, often we may decide to redesign a room or area to give it a specific purpose. It is likely you will need to invest in some furniture and accessories, however these need not be expensive…

Buying second hand furniture isn’t really any different from buying new items and generally the same rules apply. You will save yourself a lot of time and money by making informed decisions whether buying new or old.

Here’s my guide to buying second hand furniture:

1. Measure

   Measure the area the piece of furniture will go and set yourself maximum dimensions for the new item, then save them on your phone so you’ll always have them to hand.

2. Know what you are looking for

   You can spend hours online browsing, don’t waste your time use filters and save searches so you’ll receive notifications of suitable items.

3. Think outside the box

   If you can’t find what you are looking for then try some alternative words, look up what other people have called the item you are after. If you would like a sideboard - try cupboard, drawers, storage unit etc.

4. Make sure it’s fit for purpose

   Even if it looks amazing and is a great price, if it’s not what you need then don’t buy it.

5. Location

   Especially for larger and more expensive items set your self a maximum distance and stick to it, you will probably want to have a look at the item before you buy it. No one wants to return home empty handed after a 3 hour drive.

6. Transport

   Can you fit it in your car? There is a reason why sofa’s are so hard to sell privately!

7. Postage

   If you find an item that’s perfect but too far away consider arranging a courier service, they are not as expensive as you think, but check with the seller they are happy to package the item and will be available for collection.

8. Research

   If you search for vintage, mid century, ercol etc these items are likely to come with a big price tag. However if you do your research into this style of furniture you like then you may find other less known brands for less.

9. Pop into your local charity shop

   Emmaus, British Heart Foundation and St Helena Hospice all have furniture shops, but you may find some local charities that also sell second hand furniture. We have a great one in Newmarket - Open Door, the prices are amazing - I recently picked up a mirror for 50p.

10. Inspiration

    If you are stuck for inspiration have a look online to see how others have used second hand furniture in their homes, there are also some good tv programmes about upcycling and you tube is good for tutorials.