Finding Cheap Furniture

College kids,

I am moving into an apartment in the fall and was wondering where are some good places to find furniture?


Angela
19 years old
New York, NY


Angela,

For most college students it can be very difficult to afford new furniture. Fortunately, with a small amount of effort, you can get every thing you need for little to no money. Here are some of the best places to find what you need:

• Yard sales - June is the best time of the year for yard sales so you definitely want to get on this. You will find all sorts of items at yard sales for dirt cheap. For example, my roommate got a brand new microwave for $10. What was wrong with it? Sometimes the open button gets stuck when you push it in. Yeah... besides that it works perfectly. Do not be afraid to negotiate either. Most people will cut you a deal, especially if you are a student.
• Craigslist - Cragslist is a great little site for finding stuff. The best thing is that you can find people that are selling stuff in your own area. Craiglist also has a free section. If you take the time you can find some great stuff for no cost.
• Other Students - At the end of each school year graduating students are usually eager to get rid of old furniture. Sometimes they even leave their stuff outside for others to pick up, but remember it is first come first serve.
• Unfinished furniture stores - If you must have new furniture but are on a budget you may want to try an unfinished furniture store. With these you can buy the furniture cheap, then paint/varnish it yourself.
• Family and friends - Probably the best way to get good free furniture is through the people you know. I could not believe how much furniture me and my roommate gathered up from our relatives and neighbors. Remember, you never know what uncle Ned or aunt Susie have laying around at their place. You might just get lucky and find the perfect end table for your new living room.

Here are some other tips as well:

-If you have an old couch that is worn down consider getting a couch cover. Putting one on can make your couch look almost brand new.

-If you have furniture that is broken or worn down consider fixing it before buying something else.

-If you have the time, check out the dump, you will be amazed at what people throw away.

Remember, you are a college educated adult and you can find some really great looking furniture for little to no cost. I hope these helped! Good luck!

Cheers,

The College kids