Looking for furniture in Ames, Iowa? Furniture Mart Ames IA is a popular destination for local shoppers seeking quality home furnishings. Whether you're furnishing a new apartment or upgrading your living room, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know. From practical shopping tips to common pitfalls, you'll be ready to make a confident purchase.
What to Expect at Furniture Mart Ames IA
Furniture Mart in Ames offers a wide selection of sofas, beds, dining sets, and more. The store typically showcases both budget-friendly options and higher-end pieces. Expect to find common brands like Ashley Furniture, Lane, and local lines. The showroom is organized by room type, making it easy to browse. Sales associates are available but not pushy—feel free to ask for help or explore on your own.
One tip: visit on weekdays when the store is less crowded. You'll get more personalized attention and better chance to test furniture. Also, check their website for current promotions before heading in.
How to Choose Quality Furniture at Furniture Mart
When shopping at Furniture Mart, focus on construction details. For sofas, check the frame—solid hardwood frames last longer than engineered wood. Test the cushions: high-resilience foam or down-feather blends offer better comfort and durability. For dining tables, look for solid wood tops (oak, maple) rather than veneers over particleboard.
Don't forget to measure your space. Bring a tape measure and note door widths, hallway turns, and elevator sizes if needed. Furniture Mart can provide exact dimensions for any piece. Also, ask about fabric durability—if you have kids or pets, consider performance fabrics like microfiber or Crypton.
Pricing, Discounts, and Negotiation Tips
Furniture Mart Ames IA often runs sales around holidays (Memorial Day, Labor Day, Black Friday). However, you can also negotiate on floor models or open-box items. Ask if there's a scratch-and-dent section—these pieces can be 20-40% off with minor imperfections.
Another strategy: buy multiple items at once. Many stores offer bundle discounts for living room sets or bedroom suites. Also, inquire about price matching. If you find a lower price at a competitor, Furniture Mart may match it. Always ask about financing options—some offer 0% APR for 12 months if paid in full.
Delivery and Assembly: What You Need to Know
Delivery fees vary based on distance and item size. In Ames, local delivery typically costs $50-$100. Ask if they include inside delivery (placing furniture in your room of choice) or just curbside. Assembly is usually extra—expect $40-$80 per item. You can save by assembling yourself, but ensure you have tools and help.
Check the delivery time window. Most orders arrive within 1-2 weeks, but custom items may take longer. Confirm the return policy: Furniture Mart usually allows returns within 7 days for store credit, but custom orders are final. Keep all packaging until you're sure the item works in your space.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Shopping at Furniture Mart
One big mistake is not testing the furniture thoroughly. Sit on sofas for at least 5 minutes, lie down if possible. Open drawers and doors on dressers—check for smooth glides. Another error is ignoring the care instructions. Some fabrics require professional cleaning, which adds long-term cost.
Also, don't rush into buying without comparing prices online. Use your phone to search for the same item at other retailers. Finally, avoid impulse buying floor models without checking for wear. Ask if the floor model has been discounted—sometimes they're not marked down.
FAQ
Q: What are the store hours for Furniture Mart Ames IA?
A: Typically Monday–Saturday 10am–8pm, Sunday 12pm–6pm. Check their website for holiday hours.
Q: Does Furniture Mart offer financing?
A: Yes, they often have financing options through third-party providers like Synchrony or Affirm. Ask for details.
Q: Can I return furniture if I don't like it?
A: Yes, within 7 days for store credit. Items must be in original condition. Custom orders are non-returnable.
Q: Do they have a clearance section?
A: Yes, look for clearance tags on floor models and discontinued items. Savings can be significant.
Q: Is parking easy?
A: Furniture Mart has a large parking lot with free parking. Accessible spots are available near the entrance.
Conclusion
Shopping at Furniture Mart Ames IA can be a rewarding experience if you go prepared. Focus on quality construction, negotiate when possible, and understand delivery policies. Avoid common mistakes like skipping the test sit or ignoring care labels. With these tips, you'll find furniture that fits your home and budget. Happy shopping!