Whether you’re building a brand-new patio shade structure or updating a well-loved outdoor living space, finding the perfect furniture can be an adventure and a challenge. Whether you’re outfitting a simple patio or an ornate pergola, top-quality metal or wooden furniture can be expensive. As you begin to look for furniture built to withstand the rigors of the outdoors, you may find yourself wondering whether you’ll be able to “dress up” your dream space without breaking the bank. With a little smart shopping and some patience, you’ll be able to afford the furniture and built that dream space you’ve envisioned. Here are a few “Dos” and “Don’ts” to get you started:
Don’t:
- Buy brand-new furniture straight off the showroom floor. You’ll pay top dollar for furniture that, much like a new car, will lose value as soon as you take it home.
- Buy at the beginning of the season. You’ll pay a premium price if you buy in-season. Retailers make a living by increasing their prices when demand is greatest.
- One-stop shop. You’ll make impulse buys that may not be in your best interest or even be the best fit for your space.
Do:
- Buy floor samples. Retailers often sell top-grade furniture at rock-bottom prices once it’s been unpacked and assembled as a showpiece. Such items may be in perfect condition but, once unboxed, lose their value. Check carefully over any piece that catches your eye to make sure it hasn’t been the victim of rough handling.
- Shop around online. Check online auction sites, manufacturers of patio furniture, and deep-discount sites. You may be able to find your dream items at wholesale, overstock, or auction costs! It takes a little more creativity and patience to assemble a furniture suite from such resources, but the results can be magnificent!
- Buy in the off-season. Buying at the end of summer, in the fall, or even in the winter can help you get the biggest bang for your buck on brand new furniture. You’ll have to wait to make full use of your purchases, but when spring comes around you’ll have a gorgeous outdoor space for a fraction of the cost.
When it’s time to dress up your outdoor sanctuary, just follow these simple “Dos and Don’ts” to build an outdoor palace on a cottage budget. With a little patience, creativity, and common sense, you can decorate your patio without breaking the bank. With this much leeway in the budget, you can focus more on the construction of the patio space itself and less on the finishing touches. Substance and style – what a combination!
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