Finding the perfect furniture in Sacramento, CA can feel overwhelming with so many options. Whether you're furnishing a new home or updating a single room, knowing where to shop and what to look for saves time, money, and frustration. This guide covers top stores like Ashley, practical steps for choosing pieces, common pitfalls to avoid, and honest advice for a smart purchase.
1. Ashley Furniture HomeStore in Sacramento: What to Expect
Ashley Furniture has several locations in the Sacramento area, including stores on Arden Way, Howe Avenue, and in Citrus Heights. They offer a wide selection of living room, bedroom, and dining sets at mid-range prices. Many shoppers appreciate the convenience of seeing pieces in person and taking them home the same day if in stock. However, be aware that Ashley's quality varies: their higher-end lines use solid wood and better upholstery, while budget options may use particleboard or lower-density foam. Always check the product label for materials before buying.
Pro tip: Visit during weekday mornings for less crowded showrooms and more attentive staff. Ask about floor model discounts—you can often save 10–20% on display items.
2. Other Top Furniture Stores in Sacramento, CA
Beyond Ashley, Sacramento has excellent alternatives. Living Spaces on Howe Avenue offers customizable sofas and quick delivery (often within 48 hours). IKEA in West Sacramento is great for budget-friendly modern designs, but be prepared for assembly. For higher-end pieces, Macys Furniture Gallery at Arden Fair Mall carries brands like Henredon and Baker. Local favorites include Sacramento Furniture Consignment on Fulton Avenue for unique vintage finds and Family Furniture on Florin Road for affordable traditional styles.
Comparison tip: Make a list of the specific items you need and visit 2–3 stores to compare prices, quality, and warranties. Don't buy on impulse—sleep on it.
3. Step-by-Step Guide to Buying Furniture in Sacramento
Follow these steps to make a confident purchase:
Step 1: Measure your space. Use painter's tape to outline the furniture's footprint on the floor. Check doorways, hallways, and staircases to ensure the piece can be delivered.
Step 2: Set a budget. Include delivery fees (often $50–$150), taxes, and potential assembly costs. Sacramento sales tax is around 8.75%.
Step 3: Research materials. For sofas, look for kiln-dried hardwood frames, 1.8+ density foam cushions, and high-thread-count fabric. For tables, solid wood like oak or maple lasts longer than veneer.
Step 4: Test in person. Sit on sofas, open drawers, and wiggle table legs. Check for wobbles, squeaks, or uneven finishes.
Step 5: Ask about warranties and return policies. Many stores offer 30-day returns but charge restocking fees (15–25%). Extended warranties are often not worth the cost—save that money for future repairs.
4. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Shopping for Furniture
Mistake 1: Ignoring scale. A massive sectional can overwhelm a small apartment. Use the measurements you took earlier.
Mistake 2: Focusing only on looks. A beautiful white sofa may stain easily. Consider your lifestyle—if you have kids or pets, choose performance fabrics like Crypton or microfiber.
Mistake 3: Skipping reviews. Check Google Reviews and Yelp for the specific store location. Some Ashley stores in Sacramento have mixed reviews regarding delivery delays—plan ahead.
Mistake 4: Not negotiating. Many furniture stores are open to haggling, especially on floor models, clearance items, or when buying multiple pieces. Politely ask, “Is this the best price you can offer?”
Mistake 5: Overlooking delivery details. Confirm the delivery window, whether they bring it inside, and if they remove old furniture. Some Sacramento stores charge extra for stairs or long carry distances.
5. Real Buyer Tips for Sacramento Furniture Shoppers
Sacramento locals recommend shopping at Ashley's clearance center on Power Inn Road for discounted overstock and returns. Another insider tip: follow stores on social media for flash sales—Living Spaces often has 20% off entire purchase events. If you're handy, consider buying unfinished furniture from Rockler Woodworking and staining it yourself to save money. For custom pieces, check out Sacramento Custom Furniture on Broadway—they build to your specs at reasonable prices.
Final advice: Don't rush. Good furniture is an investment. Take your time, compare options, and choose pieces that fit both your space and your life.
FAQ: Furniture Shopping in Sacramento, CA
Q: Does Ashley Furniture in Sacramento offer financing?
A: Yes, Ashley offers a store credit card with deferred interest promotions. Read the terms carefully—if not paid in full by the due date, interest accrues from the purchase date.
Q: What is the best day to shop for furniture?
A: Weekdays, especially Tuesday and Wednesday, when stores are less busy and salespeople have more time. Many stores run sales on holiday weekends like Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Q: Can I return furniture if I don't like it?
A: Most stores allow returns within 30 days, but expect a restocking fee (usually 15–25%). Custom orders are typically non-returnable. Always ask before buying.
Q: Are there any furniture outlets in Sacramento?
A: Yes, Ashley's Outlet on Power Inn Road, Living Spaces Outlet in Rocklin, and IKEA's As-Is section in West Sacramento are great for deals.
Q: How do I know if a sofa is well-made?
A: Look for a solid wood frame (not plywood), 8-way hand-tied springs or sinuous coils, and high-density foam cushions. The fabric should have a high rub count (over 30,000 for residential use).
With these tips and store recommendations, you're ready to find the perfect furniture in Sacramento, CA. Happy shopping!