Is After Christmas a Good Time to Buy Furniture?

Retailers clear inventory after the holidays, which can mean real savings. Here is how to plan a post-holiday furniture purchase.

The weeks after Christmas are one of the better windows of the year to shop for furniture. Stores want to clear older stock before new collections arrive, and foot traffic tends to be lighter in winter.

Why prices drop after the holidays

Furniture makers commonly release new lines in late winter and spring. Retailers need floor and warehouse space, so last season's pieces and display models are marked down. Year-end sales also help stores hit annual targets.

Why so many people shop then

Holiday gift money and year-end bonuses free up cash for bigger purchases. The new year also motivates people to reorganize and replace worn pieces.

Seasonal demand works in your favor

Winter is generally slower for furniture stores than spring and summer, when people move house. Less demand can mean more room to negotiate, especially on floor models.

How to plan your purchase

• Measure your room, doorways and stairwells before you shop
• Decide on a budget that includes delivery and assembly
• Research materials and construction so you can compare quality
• Ask about return policies, which are often stricter on clearance items
• Inspect floor models closely for wear or damage

Watch for financing offers

"No interest" promotions can be helpful, but many charge all the deferred interest if the balance is not paid in full by the deadline. Read the terms carefully.

The bottom line

If you can wait, the post-holiday period offers a good mix of selection and savings. Doing your homework ahead of time keeps you from being swayed by a big percentage-off sign.