If you're furnishing your home in the Milwaukee area, the Ashley Furniture store in West Allis is a go-to destination. With a vast showroom and frequent sales, it can be overwhelming to navigate. This guide offers practical steps, key parameters to consider, and common mistakes to avoid, ensuring you make informed decisions.
Store Layout and What to Expect
The West Allis Ashley Furniture store is one of the largest in the region, organized by room type: living room, bedroom, dining room, and home office. Upon entering, you'll see seasonal displays and featured collections. Take a map from the front desk or ask a sales associate for guidance—many shoppers miss clearance sections near the back. Pro tip: Visit on weekdays for a quieter experience, as weekends can be crowded, especially during holiday sales.
Pricing, Sales, and Negotiation Tips
Ashley Furniture often runs promotions like “0% APR financing” or “storewide sales.” However, prices are rarely fixed. You can negotiate, especially on floor models or when buying multiple items. Ask about open-box discounts for returned items—these are often in excellent condition but marked down significantly. Also, check the clearance center in the back of the store for discontinued pieces at up to 70% off. Avoid paying full price for accessories like lamps or rugs; they frequently go on sale.
Choosing the Right Furniture: Parameters to Consider
When selecting furniture, focus on three key parameters: material, construction, and comfort. For sofas, look for kiln-dried hardwood frames and high-density foam cushions. For dining tables, check if the wood is solid or veneer. Ashley offers a range from budget-friendly to premium lines like “Ashley Signature Design.” Test pieces in-store: sit, lie down, and open drawers. Pay attention to warranty details—some items have limited coverage on fabric or mechanisms.
Delivery and Assembly: What You Need to Know
Delivery fees vary based on distance and order size. In the West Allis area, standard delivery starts at around $99, but can be waived for large purchases. Assembly is extra, typically $50-$100 per room. To save money, consider picking up items yourself if you have a truck. If you opt for delivery, schedule a time window and inspect items before the driver leaves. Note that Ashley uses third-party carriers, so delays can happen. Always photograph any damage immediately.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Mistake #1: Not measuring your space. Bring a tape measure and know your room dimensions, door widths, and hallway clearances. Mistake #2: Ignoring fabric care. Many sofas are labeled “dry clean only” or require specific cleaning products. Mistake #3: Skipping the fine print on financing. “0% APR” often requires payment within a promotional period—miss it and you'll owe retroactive interest. Mistake #4: Forgetting about return policies. Ashley has a 30-day return policy but charges a 15% restocking fee plus pickup costs. Test thoroughly before committing.
FAQ
Q: Does Ashley Furniture West Allis price-match?
A: Yes, they price-match local competitors (within 30 days of purchase) but not online-only retailers. Bring a printed ad or show the offer on your phone.
Q: How long does delivery take?
A: Typically 1-3 weeks for in-stock items. Custom orders can take 6-12 weeks. Always confirm estimated dates at checkout.
Q: Can I return a mattress?
A: Mattresses have a 120-day comfort guarantee, but you can only exchange for another mattress, not refund. There's a $99 restocking fee.
Q: Are there financing options for bad credit?
A: Ashley offers a lease-to-own option through third-party providers, but interest rates can be high. Read terms carefully.
Final Tips for a Successful Purchase
Before heading to the West Allis store, create a list of needed items and a budget. Browse online to check prices and availability. On arrival, take photos of tags so you can compare later. Don't feel pressured by sales tactics—take your time. If you're unsure, sleep on it. Many customers regret impulse buys, especially large pieces. Finally, consider signing up for the Ashley Furniture email list for exclusive coupons and early access to sales.