In this post, I'm diving into a topic that might raise a few eyebrows: buying a floor model sofa. I know, I know, some of you might be hesitant, picturing a worn-out, damaged piece of furniture. But trust me, floor model sofas can be an absolute steal if you know what to look for.
I've spent years in the furniture industry, even running my own store, and I can tell you firsthand that couch floor models are often overlooked gems. They're a fantastic option if you're like me and constantly searching for where to buy cheap furniture that doesn't sacrifice quality. Let's break down the myths and uncover the truth about floor model sofas.
What is a Floor Model Sofa?
So, what is a floor model sofa, anyway? It's simply a sofa that's been on display in a store's showroom. It might have been sat on, lounged on, or even napped on a few times, but that doesn't mean it's ready for the trash heap. In fact, most floor model sofas are in surprisingly good shape.
Are floor model sofas worth it?
Yes, floor model sofas can provide great value if you’re looking for significant savings and don’t mind minor imperfections.
Pros:
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Cost Savings
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Immediate Availability
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Quality
Cons:
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Imperfections
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Limited Selection
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Warranty
I’ll discuss in detail below why buying a floor model furniture is worth it, and also address the most common concerns when buying a couch floor model.
How much can I save on floor models?
You can typically save 40-60% on a floor model sofa, but discounts can sometimes be even higher. For example, a $1000 sofa might be available for as low as $400 if it's a floor model.
Remember: The amount you save will depend on the retailer, the original price of the sofa, and the condition of the floor model. Always inspect the sofa carefully before purchasing to ensure you're happy with its condition.
Top Reasons Why You Should Buy A Floor Model Sofa
Now let’s get to the juicy part: the amazing perks of buying a floor model sofa! You can take it home or have it delivered right away. I’m not just talking minor benefits here, but serious advantages that can transform your furniture-buying experience. Unlike custom orders that take weeks or months, these sofas are in stock and ready to go.
1. Serious Savings, Seriously
This is the main draw for most people looking for affordable sofas. Floor model sofas are like the hidden treasures of the furniture world, often marked down by a whopping 40-60% (or even more!). This means you can snag a high-quality, stylish sofa without breaking the bank.
Imagine finally being able to afford that luxurious, top-grain leather couch or that plush, velvet sectional you've been eyeing, all while keeping your budget intact. It's the perfect opportunity to upgrade your living space without the hefty price tag.
2. Skip the Wait, Get Cozy Now
One of the best things about buying a floor model sofa is instant gratification. You can take it home or have it delivered right away. Unlike custom orders that take weeks or months, these sofas are in stock and ready to go. This is perfect for those who want their new affordable sofa now.
Typical wait times for custom orders or even in-stock sofas that are warehoused somewhere regionally can be frustrating. You might wait several weeks or even months for your new sofa to arrive. With a floor model, there’s no waiting. As quite possibly the least patient furniture buyer on earth, I can remember the sweet relief of finding a beautiful floor model sofa that I could bring home the same day.
3. Quality That Doesn't Quit
Don't let the "floor model" or "sample couch" label fool you into thinking these sofas are subpar. While they may have been on display, most retailers take meticulous care of their floor model furniture. Many stores even go the extra mile to refurbish and clean these sofas before putting them on clearance. So, what you're getting is essentially a nearly-new sofa, often with only minor, barely noticeable imperfections, at a significantly discounted price.
Let's be honest, even a brand-new sofa will start to show some wear and tear with regular use. So why not save yourself some money and still get a high-quality piece of furniture that will stand the test of time?
4. Be a Planet Hero (and a Style Icon) in Your Living Space
By buying a floor model sofa, you're not just saving money and scoring a stylish piece of furniture for your home, you're also helping the environment. When you choose a floor model, you're essentially rescuing a perfectly good sofa from a potential trip to the landfill.
This reduces waste, conserves resources, and lowers the demand for new furniture production, which can have a significant environmental impact. So, you can feel good about your purchase knowing you're making a sustainable choice while still getting a fabulous sofa that reflects your unique taste. It's a win-win for your wallet, your home, and the planet!
5. Haggle Like a Pro
Unlike new furniture with fixed prices, floor model sofas often come with more wiggle room for negotiation. Don't be shy about asking for an even better deal. You might be surprised at how much you can save by simply asking for a discount or expressing any concerns you have about the sofa's condition. Alex's motto:
"it never hurts to ask."
So, there you have it! Floor model sofas offer an unbeatable combination of savings, convenience, quality, and sustainability. It's time to rethink the way you buy furniture and consider the hidden gems waiting to be discovered on the showroom floor. Now, let's address some of those lingering concerns you might have about buying a used sofa.
Addressing Your Floor Model Fears
Now, I know what you're thinking: "But Alex, what about the wear and tear?" It's true, a floor model sofa might have a few minor imperfections. Maybe a small stain here or a loose thread there. Let's tackle those concerns head-on, one by one:
Hidden damage: What if there are underlying issues I can't see?
This is a valid concern, but it's easily addressed with a thorough inspection. Before purchasing a floor model sofa, give it a good once-over. In fact, most stores will require it to limit their liability once you take it home. They don't want any surprises either! Check the frame for any cracks or instability, test the springs and cushions for firmness and support, and look closely at the upholstery for any tears or stains. Don't hesitate to ask the salesperson about the sofa's history and whether it has undergone any repairs. You can also request to see any inspection reports or documentation the store might have.
Cleanliness: Has the sofa been properly cleaned and sanitized?
Most reputable retailers take cleanliness seriously, especially with floor model furniture. They typically clean and sanitize floor models before putting them up for sale. However, it's always a good idea to inquire about their cleaning procedures. If you have any concerns, you can even ask if they would be willing to have the sofa professionally cleaned before you take it home. If not, I wouldn't sweat it. There are plenty of great cost-effective ways to clean your couch.
Durability: Will it hold up as well as a new sofa?
Generally speaking, a well-made floor model sofa should be just as durable as a new one. In fact, some people argue that floor models are even more durable since they've already been "broken in" and any potential manufacturing defects would likely have surfaced by now. However, it's crucial to choose a sofa from a reputable brand known for its quality craftsmanship.
Warranty and returns: What if I'm not happy with the sofa after I buy it?
Before purchasing any floor model sofa, it's crucial to understand the store's return and couch warranty policies. Some retailers offer warranties on floor models, while others may not. It's also important to know if you can return the sofa if you're not satisfied with it for any reason. Make sure to get all the details in writing before making your purchase.
Negotiating: How can I get the best possible price on a floor model in the store?
Negotiating is often easier with floor model sofas than with brand-new ones. Since floor models have been on display and may have minor imperfections, retailers are usually more willing to negotiate on price. Don't hesitate to point out any flaws you find and ask for a further discount. It's also helpful to research similar sofas online or at other stores to get an idea of fair market value.
Retailers are often against the idea of negotiation because if they give one customer X discount, they may have to give another customer X discount. It's a slippery slope! However, this isn't the case when it comes to floor samples- these are one-of-a-kind couches and they can be priced at the discretion of the retail store or outlet. And remember, the worst they can say is no!
Tips for Snagging the Perfect Floor Model Sofa
Ready to dive into the world of floor model sofas? Here are a few floor model sofa tips to help you find the perfect match:
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Inspect Carefully: Look for any signs of wear and tear, such as stains, scratches, or loose threads.
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Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask the salesperson about the sofa’s history and any repairs that have been made.
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Check the Warranty: Some retailers offer warranties on floor model furniture, so be sure to inquire about coverage.
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Negotiate: Don’t be afraid to haggle for a better price. Remember, there’s often more flexibility with floor models.
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Consider Different Types: Consider different types of sofa accessories available, such as throw pillows, cushions, and ottomans.
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Trust Your Gut: If you love the sofa and the price is right, go for it! You might just find the perfect couch for your space that you’ve been searching for.
Need More Help? We've Got Your Back!
At Couch.com, we're passionate about helping you find the perfect couch, whether it's a floor model, a new model, or something in between. We offer expert advice, personalized recommendations, and a wide selection of floor model sofas at unbeatable prices. So what are you waiting for? Start your floor model sofa journey today and discover the hidden treasures waiting to be found!
Official Transcript of Consider the Floor Model: How Do You Evaluate a Floor Plan
0:00
Alex: Hey couch caners, it's Alex with couch.com. We're going to talk about something very sensitive: buying a floor model. Some people are against the idea, some are all for it. I'm more in the camp of "all for it," and I'll tell you why.
Floor Models Are Usually In Good Condition
0:14
Alex:The biggest tip I have about buying a floor model from a furniture retailer is they're usually in pretty good condition. Generally speaking, to resell a piece of furniture, it has to be in almost pristine condition to get a customer to take one home with them. So, furniture companies are pretty discerning about what they put out there on the sales floor or in their online showroom for clearance.
0:34
Alex: In the store that I used to run, we would refurbish items, get them stain treated, and steam cleaned. We would make sure that we wouldn't have any problems whatsoever if a customer purchased one and brought it home with them. You'd be surprised to learn the lengths to which retailers go to make it a very good experience for the buyer. The great thing is you can usually get a fantastic deal on a floor model—something that's only damaged maybe 5 to 10% and somewhere between 40, 50, 60% off or even more from the original price.
Furniture Storage is Expensive
1:07
Alex: Furniture is incredibly expensive to store, and furniture companies, no matter how big their warehouses are, all seem to run out of space at some point. They need to keep that inventory moving. For those of you out there that are still seeking perfection, I urge you to think about what this couch is going to be like in a few weeks or a few months from now. The likelihood is that it's going to have deteriorated 5 to 10% from its initial pristine state. So let's be realists about it. Get a fantastic deal on an awesome piece of furniture, even though it may not be perfect, understanding that it's probably not going to be perfect anyway.
Take Your Couch Home Right Away
1:43
Alex: Another reason that people look for floor models in furniture stores is because you can take them home with you or get them delivered right away. People like me, who like instant results, don't really like to wait for very long. A lot of the furniture industry relies on customers being very patient with wait times, whether it's a few days, a few weeks, or even months to get something custom-produced. These pieces are ready to go in the showroom, and the furniture resellers are very motivated to get them out of their warehouse and into your home. So, if you're looking for something fast, this can be the very best way to do that.
Extra Discounts
2:16
Alex: One more reason to search for a floor sample in a furniture store is that even if the price is listed as 50-60% off, you can likely negotiate that price down more. If you're a true bargain hunter and looking for the best possible deal, this is a great way to get one. There are really very few rules when it comes to buying a floor model versus a new piece of furniture. A retailer can't really give you a fantastic deal and then give the next customer something worse—they have to keep everything pretty even when it comes to negotiation on brand-new pieces of furniture. But when it comes to floor models, all bets are off. Their goal is to get it out the door at a price that makes sense to them or their supervisors. Your goal is to get the best price possible for you. Usually, those things can come together quite nicely. All you have to do is ask. Ask if there's a little bit better deal they can do on this one. Say you're a little concerned about having this piece in your home that's not quite new. What's the worst that could happen? They say no. Thank you. It's always worth the inquiry.
