When purchasing a sofa, loveseat, chair, or any other furniture in Mississauga, Ontario, it’s important to make informed decisions to avoid common mistakes that could lead to disappointment, wasted money, or long-term dissatisfaction. Here are some key mistakes to avoid:
1. Not Measuring Your Space Properly
Mistake: Buying furniture that is too large or too small for your living area.
Avoid It: Always measure the available space where you intend to place the furniture. Take into account not only the dimensions of the sofa or chair but also clearance space around it for easy movement. Don’t forget to measure doorways and hallways to ensure the furniture can be delivered to your home.
2. Ignoring Comfort
Mistake: Focusing too much on style and price while neglecting comfort.
Avoid It: Test the furniture for comfort before buying. Sit on the sofa, loveseat, or chair in-store for a while to make sure it suits your body and provides adequate support. Pay attention to cushion firmness and the overall seating experience.
3. Choosing the Wrong Fabric or Material
Mistake: Selecting a fabric or material that isn’t practical for your lifestyle or the environment.
Avoid It: Consider how much maintenance the fabric requires and whether it fits your lifestyle. For example, if you have pets or young children, you may want to opt for more durable, stain-resistant materials such as microfiber or leather instead of delicate fabrics that could get easily damaged.
4. Overlooking Durability and Quality
Mistake: Going for the cheapest option without considering how long the furniture will last.
Avoid It: Invest in high-quality materials and construction. Check the frame (wood vs. metal), joinery (screws vs. nails), and upholstery. Well-built furniture lasts longer, even if it costs more upfront. Don’t forget to check the warranty and return policies.
5. Not Considering Your Lifestyle Needs
Mistake: Buying furniture without considering how you’ll use it on a daily basis.
Avoid It: Think about your daily activities—will you entertain guests often, do you watch TV a lot, or do you have a specific preference for how deep or shallow the seating is? This will help you select pieces that meet your specific needs.
6. Ignoring Color and Style Compatibility
Mistake: Choosing furniture that doesn’t complement your existing décor.
Avoid It: Consider how the sofa, loveseat, or chair will fit with the colors and style of your living room. Choose neutral tones if you want versatility or bold colors if you want to make a statement. Keep in mind that while trendy colors and designs may be appealing, they can become outdated quickly.
7. Falling for Flashy Sales or Promotions
Mistake: Making impulsive purchases based on sales without fully understanding the value.
Avoid It: Sales can be tempting, but don’t buy on impulse. Take time to compare prices and quality across different stores. If the deal seems too good to be true, it may be worth reconsidering.
8. Not Asking About Delivery and Assembly
Mistake: Not checking the delivery fees and assembly options beforehand.
Avoid It: Confirm delivery details such as the cost, timeline, and whether the furniture will be assembled. Some stores offer free delivery and assembly, while others charge extra fees.
9. Disregarding the Return/Exchange Policy
Mistake: Not understanding the store’s return or exchange policy before purchasing.
Avoid It: Read the fine print on return policies, especially when buying large items. Some furniture stores may have strict return policies or restocking fees. Understand how long you have to return the item if it doesn’t meet expectations.
10. Not Considering Sustainability and Eco-Friendliness
Mistake: Overlooking eco-friendly options in favor of cheaper or more readily available options.
Avoid It: Look for sustainable materials and furniture made with environmentally friendly practices. Some manufacturers use non-toxic materials, eco-friendly finishes, or offer recycling programs.
11. Not Researching the Brand/Store Reputation
Mistake: Purchasing from a store without researching its reputation or customer reviews.
Avoid It: Look into customer reviews and ratings for the store or brand. A good reputation for customer service, quality, and post-purchase support is essential. Stores in Mississauga, Ontario, like ARV Furniture, have online reviews that can give you valuable insights into the quality of their products and services.
12. Not Asking About Customization Options
Mistake: Assuming that you are limited to pre-made options.
Avoid It: Many furniture stores, including ARV Furniture in Mississauga, offer customization options like choosing the fabric, color, and even the configuration of sofas or chairs. Don’t hesitate to ask about these options, especially if you have specific design preferences.
By avoiding these mistakes, you can ensure that your furniture shopping experience in Mississauga is a success, resulting in pieces that are stylish, comfortable, and long-lasting.
