College living can be stressful.
Dingy apartments, run-down appliances, loud neighbors, and messy roommates are all things any student may experience.
Buying used furniture is a must-do for any new living space.
It’s crucial every student knows what to look for when buying used furniture to avoid any extra headaches.
Look Around
The best thing about looking for used furniture is you’re not restricted to one place. You can find quality used furniture anywhere, whether it’s a yard or estate sale, thrift store, or your neighbor’s front yard. People often neglect second-hand furniture, but these places can easily hide antiques or other precious heirlooms.
There are endless possibilities to find a piece of furniture that speaks to you. Also, you can check flea markets or even some hotels to buy second-hand furniture.
Similarly, it’s a great idea to check online or use smartphone apps. This way you can directly connect to sellers and investigate the furniture before making your purchase.
Check for Bugs
Checking for bugs is a daunting task you’ll have to do. It’s one of the biggest risks when buying used furniture. Bed bugs, specifically, thrive in used items because they don’t get cleaned or maintained regularly.
When shopping for used furniture, check for bed bugs with a simple method. Simply lift the cushions and look around the edges. This way, you can spot any infestations. If you find a bed bug infestation, intensely scrub your furniture. Then, vacuum the area so that no bugs escape.
One Piece Can Have Multiple Uses
The great thing about looking for and buying used furniture is that it’s cheap or—in some cases—free. For many college students, money is limited. Shopping for used furniture can reduce your spending. Save your money for necessities such as textbooks, food, utilities, or rent. Another cost-effective idea is to use a piece of furniture for an unintended purpose. Repurposing furniture is a great, crafty idea for those who want to decorate their living space in a trendy way.
Spot any Chips or Missing Pieces
No one wants to buy used furniture that is half-missing. Just because you’re buying second-hand doesn’t mean you need to settle for poor quality. When shopping, ask about the make and materials used. You can find some high-quality wood pieces if you know where to look. If there are some minor repairs to be done, then this can be a great DIY project. Sanding, repainting, or refinishing will save costs on woodwork or long-term repair. Don’t be discouraged from buying your next desk or cabinet because of a few fixable issues.
other valuable tips:
Pay Attention to Tags and Labels
It isn’t feasible to spend a lot of money on used pieces. You’re shopping on a budget! You shouldn’t feel obligated to buy a piece if it goes beyond your price range. Check tags and labels to make sure you truly are getting a piece of furniture for a good price. Remember you’re trying to save money here, not waste it. If it is a high-end piece for little cost, then consider that a smart investment.
Image Credit: buying used furniture by Pixabay
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NOVEMBER: understand college costs (part of HS college calendar)
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