7 Questions to Ask Before You Buy a Couch

The best times to look for upholstered furniture on sale are during early spring (January and February) and early fall (July and August), says Patricia Bowling, vice president of communications at the American Home Furnishings Alliance. That's when stores clean out inventory to make room for new products. "Room and Board is known for great floor discounts during this time," interior designer Shelly Lynch-Sparks says. On holidays such as Memorial Day, Veterans Day and Labor Day, when stores discount furniture by 20 to 30 percent, the promotions generally begin on Friday at midnight, Lynch-Sparks says. "These pieces can be found right on the showroom floor. Or in the sale or 'as is' section."