Use Google Lens to take a photo of a piece and find its original brand and retail price to ensure you're getting a fair deal.

Visit Habitat for Humanity ReStore locations, thrift stores, estate sales in established neighborhoods, or consignment shops for curated selections. Essential Quality Checks

Always check SaferProducts.gov for furniture that may have safety recalls, such as unstable dressers or old cribs.

Record the dimensions of your space and the entryways (doors, hallways) before you go.

Shake the piece gently; it should not wobble or squeak. Look for dovetail joints in drawers rather than staples or glue, which signal flimsy construction.

Test all drawers and doors. They should glide smoothly and align correctly.

Scrutinize seams and corners for tiny black dots (feces) or insect shells, which are red flags for bed bugs. Avoid at All Costs