Smart Shopping: Furniture Shopping

WSVN -- Sofas, dining tables or bedroom sets all can cost thousands.

Yuri: "We're looking out for something like a little more modern kind of style."

Brian: "We came in looking for a bed and maybe some rugs."

But there are ways to save. First, do some homework.

Brian: "We looked in the newspaper, looked on-line."

That way you'll know a price range for the pieces you're looking for.

Curt Nichols: "Forty-three percent of shoppers now go to the Internet before going into a furniture store."

Curt Nichols of City Furniture says by having a price range, you can make sure you don't pay too much. Another good tip, forgo the holiday weekend trip, go furniture shopping instead. That's when you'll find the best deals.

Curt Nichols: "For the Fourth of July weekend, we'll be running a wonderful finance promotion with no interest until 2012."

Savvy shoppers know you can save thousands if you're furniture doesn't have to be in tip top shape or the latest model. Before you spend big at the main stores, stop by clearance or outlet centers.

Curt Nichols: "We also have discontinued and close out furniture, so customers can get 40 percent off already really, really low prices."

You can even find great deals on lamps, mirrors and decorative accessories, so you can spend more on the main items.

For extra savings, instead of buying five or six pieces, look for multi-functional furniture. At El Dorado, they have a selection from futons to beds to bars.

Rita Corraliza: "You could set your plasma TV. It has storage on both sides. You could put it as a room divider and a buffet or a console."

All that for $399. Rita Corraliza also says to keep an eye out for floor sample signs throughout the store.

Rita Corraliza: "For example, you can have it on a sofa. It could be from 10 to 20 percent discount."

And if you're not sure of what matches your home, don't worry, see if your store offers free decorating services.

Rita Corraliza: "The customer comes, brings plans of the house or apartment, and we provide the service absolutely free."

Robbin Simmons: "Also, ask for rebate specials or negotiate for free delivery. Both can save you big when you go to pay."

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

City Furniture Showroom & Clearance Center
6701 N. Hiatus Rd.
954-718-3300
Tamarac, FL 33321
http://www.city-furniture.com/

El Dorado Furniture
4200 NW 167 Street
Miami Gardens, FL 33054
305-624-9700
http://www.eldoradofurniture.com/