In today’s world, using the internet is second nature. It’s thought that over 27% of theworld’s population shops online and 55% of the US market is made up by online shoppers. You can buy pretty much everything online nowadays, including furniture.
Buying furniture online was once a bit of a risky business, as it could be difficult to know what it would look like in the room, whether it would suit your current décor and whether it was the right size for the room. Nowadays, though, all of those issues are ancient history.
The future of furniture shopping
By the beginning of 2012 there were 6 billion mobile users worldwide and over 490 million units of smartphones were shipped. All of these smartphone users can now begin buying online, and they can even buy their home furnishings using apps.
If you’re thinking about buying a new sofa or a new dining table on your smartphone, follow these three essential tips:
1) Use an Augmented Reality app
In the 80s and 90s, augmented reality was the stuff of sci-fi novels, but today it’s available to use all over the show. There are lots of different augmented reality apps out there that can help you to visualise how your chosen furniture would look in your home, so you won’t get any nasty surprises when it’s delivered.
2) Check it out in-store as well
We’ve all made the mistake of buying something online only to realise that it looks nothing like the picture once it arrives. Make sure this doesn’t happen to you by choosing a furniture company that has regional stores as well. This will give you the chance to go and check out the item in real life.
Depending on what you’re buying, you’ll want to test run the item while you’re there. For example, if it’s a bed, always lie on it for a minute or two to see whether it’s comfortable. If it’s a sofa, sit on it and put your feet up – you need to ensure it’s nice and plush. Even if you’re buying a dining table, sit down at it and make sure it’s the right height, the right finish and suits your family’s personality perfectly.
3) Compare prices
If you’ve picked a company that has both a mobile website and a selection of regional stores, compare the two prices so you get the best one. Some companies offer online exclusives and online-only sales, which could help you to save more money on your purchase. If you find that the store has a cheaper option, go for it!
Buying furniture online really needn’t be a difficult process, and you can easily find out whether the furniture you’re thinking about buying will be just right for your home. Just take a look online now to start finding home furnishings to suit you, and follow these three easy tips.