Everyone needs to have a friend who is an interior designer. They help you pick out colors for you walls and know the “ins” and “outs” of how to get a good deal on furniture. Luckily I know Jeff Wade of Coral Gables, Florida. I asked Jeff to spill the beans on the decorating business so that we can all know how to get the best prices on furnishing our homes.
Floor Samples:

Check out the nicest furniture store in your area. See how they arrange the furniture in vignettes. If you like what you see ask how much the floor model costs. Jeff says it could save you 50% of the retail price. He also suggests taking pictures. Have a local seamstress copy the curtains or bedding for you with your own fabric and trim. Wade says you will pay ¼ of the price of what it costs at the store.

Auction Houses:
With so many people in foreclosure or downsizing these days auction houses carry a lot of pieces. You can get a great deal if you are prepared to pay for recovering or reworking some of the older buys.

Consignment Shops:
What do you do with furniture that is good and you are just tired of? You leave it at a consignment shop or list it on an auction site. Jeff showed me a beautiful mahogany bed set that sold for $199 at a consignment shop in Miami.

Furniture Outlets:
North Carolina is known for its furniture outlets. It’s the place in this country where furniture is either made or housed for many furniture makers. You can get great deals on items that are current and in a store near you. You can also check their clearance stock to find some real deals. Jeff likes www.boyles.com. If you don’t see what you like Jeff suggests emailing a representative there or calling their number and asking them to send you a picture when something comes in that you may be interested in purchasing. The outlets also offer free shipping twice a year. If you live out of state you will also save on taxes.

Fabric Sales:
This is probably the best one Jeff revealed to me. Brunschwig &Fils throw an incredible sale twice a year in Westchester, NY. Fabric that retails for hundreds of dollars a yard, goes for $3-$5 a yard!!!! They also have some furniture pieces that costs thousands and is on sale for $500. You need to call them at: 212-838-7878 to be put on their email; list.

Jeff’s tips for shopping smart:
Take measurements of your room and furniture with you to a sale.

Don’t get carried away with the price. If you don’t need it, don’t buy it.

Bring a color chart or pillows with you to make sure the colors compliment what you already have.