Its undeniable that your sofa plays a very important role in both comfort and style when it comes to your living room - and whilst buying a brand spanking new sofa might be the most obvious option that comes to mind, there is an alternative you should consider before handing over a hefty sum for the sofa of your dreams.
What Is An Ex-Display Sofa?
An ex-display sofa is a sofa that has been previously used as a display model in a showroom, exhibition, or retail store. These sofas are often placed in prominent positions to showcase their design, comfort, and features to potential buyers. Despite being gently used for display purposes, ex-display sofas are typically well-maintained and in excellent condition.
The Benefits Of Buying An Ex-Display Sofa
Buying an ex-display sofa is becoming increasingly popular with the cost of living on the rise daily. For those who aren't familiar with this budget-friendly option, the name 'ex-display' may be off putting, as who doesn't want brand new? But don't let the name put you off, there are countless benefits to buying ex-display sofas, and in this article we'll explore these and show you why buying ex-display may just be the right choice for you.
Cost Savings
Ex-display sofas are offered at discounted prices due to their status as showroom or display models. Furniture stores need to rotate their inventory regularly to make space for new arrivals and to keep their showroom fresh and up-to-date. As a result, ex-display sofas, while still in excellent condition, are marked down to make room for new stock. Additionally, retailers may offer discounts to incentivise customers to purchase these display models quickly, further driving down the price.
When comparing prices, ex-display sofas typically offer significant savings compared to purchasing a brand new sofa. Since ex-display sofas have been used primarily for display purposes and may have some minor wear or imperfections (though uncommon) from handling and customer interactions, they are priced lower than their brand new counterparts. This price difference can vary depending on factors such as the brand, style, and condition of the sofa, but it's not uncommon to find ex-display sofas priced at a fraction of their original retail price.
Quality Assurance
When considering an ex-display sofa, it's essential to carefully assess its condition. While ex-display sofas are generally well-maintained, they may exhibit minor wear or cosmetic imperfections from being handled or used as showroom models. Common signs of wear may include slight scuff marks, small scratches, or minor fabric pilling. However, it's essential to differentiate between normal wear and tear and more significant damage that may affect the sofa's structural integrity or usability. Thoroughly inspecting the sofa for any signs of damage or excessive wear ensures that you're making an informed decision and selecting a sofa that meets your standards of quality. If you're buying the ex-display sofa online, have a look at the product description and at the photos as sellers should list any imperfections here.
Many ex-display sofas come with manufacturer warranties or guarantees, providing added peace of mind for buyers. These warranties typically cover manufacturing defects and structural issues for a specified period, offering protection against unforeseen problems that may arise after purchase. Before completing your purchase, it's wise to inquire about the warranty coverage and duration specific to the ex-display sofa you're considering. Additionally, some retailers may offer extended warranty options or supplemental protection plans for an additional fee, providing further assurance and support.
Eco Friendly Choice
Opting for an ex-display sofa is an eco-friendly choice that helps reduce waste by giving showroom models a new lease on life. Rather than being discarded or disposed of, ex-display sofas find new homes with conscientious buyers who appreciate their value and quality. By extending the lifespan of these sofas, you're actively contributing to waste reduction efforts and minimizing the environmental impact of furniture production and disposal. Choosing to purchase an ex-display sofa not only benefits you as a buyer but also helps promote a more sustainable approach to consumption within the furniture industry.
The production and transportation of new furniture contribute to carbon emissions and environmental degradation. By opting for an ex-display sofa, you're choosing a more sustainable option that has a lower carbon footprint compared to purchasing a brand new sofa. Since ex-display sofas have already been manufactured and transported to the showroom, they require fewer resources and emissions compared to the production and delivery of new furniture. By minimising the demand for new manufacturing processes and reducing transportation-related emissions, choosing an ex-display sofa aligns with efforts to combat climate change and promote environmental sustainability.
Potential Exclusivity
A great benefit that is often overlooked when it comes to buying an ex-display sofa is the potential exclusivity that comes with it. Its not uncommon for popular sofa ranges to be discontinued, meaning they're no longer made - so if you come across an ex-display sofa model that is no longer made you're potentially purchasing something that no one else will be able to buy again.
Tips For Buying An Ex-Display Sofa Online
- Carefully review all available photos and descriptions provided by the seller, paying close attention to any details or imperfections mentioned.
- Request additional photos or information if needed to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the sofa's condition.
- If possible, inquire about the sofa's history, including its time on display, any maintenance or repairs conducted, and the reason for being sold as an ex-display item.
- Consider asking for a virtual tour or video call with the seller to inspect the sofa in real-time and address any questions or concerns.
- Take advantage of online resources such as customer reviews or forums to gather insights and feedback from previous buyers of ex-display furniture from the same seller or retailer.
Conclusion
Throughout this article, we've explored the numerous advantages of choosing an ex-display sofa for your home. From significant cost savings to accessing unique and exclusive designs, as well as the positive impact on the environment that comes with it - there really is so many reasons to opt for ex-display.
