There’s a reason home improvement shows are popular. People love seeing the “before and after” transformation made complete with brand-new furniture and shiny new kitchen appliances. And those who want a makeover of their own are living vicariously through those shows, because often that kind of upgrade is out of most families’ budgets. 

But if you are one of these people, looking to fill your home with new stylish furniture and reliable appliances, we have great news! You absolutely CAN do it without breaking the bank. We've compiled some valuable “affordable furniture and appliance” tips and tricks to help you save money while enjoying a home refresh of your own. Let’s get started!

Utilize Alternative to Financing Options

If you're considering shopping for a larger item, you might be looking for different ways to shop. At Acima Leasing, our lease-to-own* program provides an alternative to financing that allows you to shop at name-brand appliance and furniture retailers without using credit*. It’s a great way to manage expenses effectively and avoid putting yourself in a financial bind while still enjoying the furniture and appliances you need.

Price Comparison Is Your Friend

When shopping for appliances, don't settle for the first option you come across. A little bit of research and price comparison can go a long way in helping you find the best deal. 

When you take the time to compare prices from different stores or online retailers, you might be surprised by significant variations for the same product. So utilize price comparison websites or apps to easily compare multiple retailers and find the best deal. Also consider looking for stores that offer price match guarantees ; this way you know you’re getting the best price for the appliance you want no matter where you shop.

Keep an Eye Out for Seasonal Discounts

Good things — and great sales — come to those who wait! Many furniture and appliance stores offer seasonal discounts throughout the year, so timing your shopping strategically may help your overall shopping experience. Make a list of the furniture and appliances you need — then if possible, plan your shopping around these sales events. 

Pay particular attention to popular holiday sales (like Labor Day, Black Friday or Cyber Monday) or end-of-season clearances. Additionally, consider signing up for email newsletters or following your favorite stores on social media to stay informed about upcoming discounted furniture and appliances.

Opt for More Affordable Brands

While top-of-the-line brands may be enticing, they often come with a hefty price tag. Considering more affordable brands that are comparable in quality and style is going to be a big money-saver. The key is to look for those brands that prioritize affordability without compromising on durability and functionality.

Again, this is where doing your homework is to your advantage. There are plenty of budget-friendly furniture and appliance brands available that don't sacrifice quality … and others, not so much. So before you are too enticed by a really low price, read customer reviews to ensure you're getting the best value for your money. Don't be afraid to explore different brands and models to find the best combination of affordability and quality that suits your needs.

Take Advantage of Outlet Stores

Outlet stores, outlet malls and direct-from-the manufacturer factory outlets are havens for furniture savings and appliance discount seekers. This is because you can find brand-new items at lower prices due to overstock, floor models, discontinued models or slight imperfections. For instance, a barely noticeable dent on the outside of a part of a washing machine could be discounted hundreds of dollars compared to a new, out-of-the-box model found at a regular retail store. Keep in mind that the selection may vary, so it's a good idea to check back regularly to find the best products and deals. 

Don't Overlook Online Deals

In today's digital age, many online retailers offer exclusive discounts, flash sales or coupon codes on a regular basis — whether it’s to entice new consumers, reward loyal customers or even just to get a leg up on the competition. For the retailer, they generate interest and added sales. For you, they allow you to shop for the furniture and appliances you want at a great deal.

A little time and legwork exploring online deals and promotions before shopping can pay off in a big way. Subscribe to a retailer’s newsletter or follow their social media accounts to stay updated on the latest offers — you never know what great deal you might stumble upon! To maximize your savings even more, look for online retailers that offer free shipping or discounted delivery options.

Acima: Your Shopping Power Starts Here

Finding budget-friendly furniture and appliances doesn't have to be a daunting task. And if traditional financing isn’t an option, it doesn’t mean your shopping options are limited as well. With creativity, savvy and the flexibility offered by Acima Leasing's lease-to-own solution*, you can start your furniture and appliance hunt knowing that you have the shopping power to explore your options.