Understanding furniture buying cycles

The furniture market follows certain predictable cycles that can impact pricing and selection, providing savvy shoppers with the opportunity to snag deals. The industry’s rhythm is largely influenced by the biannual introduction of new styles—once in the spring and once in the fall. So, the periods just before these seasonal shifts, particularly late winter (January and February) and late summer (August and September), are prime times for furniture shopping as retailers reduce prices to clear out old stock.

But how do these cycles translate into the best opportunities for indoor and outdoor furniture shopping? Let’s break it down month by month.

The best times to purchase furniture, by month

Strategically timing your indoor furniture purchases can mean substantial savings and a better selection to choose from. Let’s explore the optimal times to update your living spaces without straining your wallet.

January & February
Get your indoor furniture

During the chilly months of January and February, retailers are eager to make space for new spring collections. This makes it an ideal time to explore deals on last season's indoor furniture. Additionally, Presidents’ Day sales can provide significant savings, especially for pieces like sofas, dining sets, and bedroom furniture.

March & April
Find deals on outdoor furniture

In spring, retailers start showcasing new outdoor collections with early bird specials to attract customers excited for warmer weather. This is also the right time to place custom furniture orders, ensuring they're ready in time to enjoy throughout the summer.

July & August
Warm up with summer sales

The heart of summer sees retailers preparing for fall by clearing out existing inventory, leading to significant reductions on both outdoor and indoor furniture. The Fourth of July and Labor Day weekends are particularly ripe with sales, providing ample opportunity to find the perfect pieces for your home. Also, keep an eye on Amazon Prime Day and Way Day, as these events can prompt competitive sales across other retailers.

September & October
Shop for outdoor furniture on clearance

As summer winds down, retailers look to offload remaining outdoor furniture, translating to massive clearance sales. This is the perfect time for you to purchase high-quality outdoor items like dining sets and lounge chairs at a fraction of their original cost.

November & December
Take advantage of holiday shopping

The end of the year brings Black Friday and holiday shopping, a peak time for finding deals on indoor furniture. Retailers offer considerable discounts on major pieces such as beds, sofas, and dining sets. This season is ideal for buying high-ticket items.

By aligning your furniture purchases with the industry's selling cycles, you can achieve significant savings and find pieces that add comfort and style to your home. At Frontdoor, we're dedicated to helping you make informed decisions, ensuring your home management is as efficient and enjoyable as possible.

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Getting bang for your buck

Smart furniture shopping isn’t just about snagging deals; it’s about strategic planning and timing. Here are some tips to help get even better deals:

  • Sale Alerts and Subscriptions: Sign up for newsletters and alerts from your favorite furniture stores. Many retailers announce special deals and exclusive discounts to their subscribers. Also, keep an eye on social media for early sale announcements and promo codes.
  • Price Comparisons and Negotiations: Don’t hesitate to compare prices across different retailers. Use price comparison tools online to ensure you’re getting the best deal. In-store, don’t be afraid to negotiate prices or ask for a price match if you’ve seen the item for less elsewhere.
  • Abandon Cart Strategy: When shopping online, try adding items to your cart and then leaving the site. Some retailers will send you a discount code to encourage you to complete the purchase.
  • Financing and Layaway Plans: If necessary, consider using financing or layaway plans to make the purchase more manageable. However, ensure you understand the terms and interest rates to avoid paying more in the long run.

By shopping strategically and thoughtfully for your furniture, you’ll save money and ensure that you get the best possible value for your investment. A little planning can go a long way towards transforming your house into a home that reflects your style and meets your budget. And with Frontdoor Unlimited, members enjoy access to discounted interior design services from Spacejoy, so you can see how furniture will look in your space.

Need help measuring your space for that perfect piece of furniture? Looking for some extra help with a DIY furniture assembly? Our handyperson Experts are here to assist, with live virtual advice. Simply Open the Frontdoor to get started.