In the face of high inflation and rising costs, many consumers are turning to secondhand stores to furnish their homes. The increased prices of new furniture and appliances, driven by tariffs and shipping costs, have made buying used a more attractive option for budget-conscious shoppers.
Nonprofit shops like Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore have seen a surge in popularity, offering a wide range of gently used items at a fraction of the original price. From dining room sets to outdoor furniture and appliances, these stores provide an eco-friendly and economical alternative to traditional retail.
Furnishing your home for less
Shoppers like Trish Hawkins have found significant savings at stores like ReStore. “I’ve bought furniture, decor, paint, and more,” Hawkins said. The store’s manager, Sonya Coopershowcased a Thermador wall oven priced at just $99, highlighting the incredible deals available.
The inventory at ReStore is vast, with items ranging from $20 to a few hundred dollars. You can find everything from tables and chairs to couches, bedroom furniture, outdoor furniture, lighting, and even doors. “They have everything but the kitchen sink. Never mind, they have those too,” Cooper joked.
What to consider before buying used
Consumer Reports suggests that shoppers can save as much as 75% off by checking out used appliance stores. However, smart shopping expert Trae Bodge cautions that not every category is a sure bet. “There are categories that I think are great for buying used, and then there are other categories that I’m not so sure about,” Bodge said.
When it comes to used appliances, Bodge advises caution. “You may not always know what’s going on under the hood,” she said. “That makes me a little bit nervous unless there’s a really strong warranty.” She recommends reading the fine print and asking about the return policy before making a purchase.
At ReStore, used appliances are all tested and come with a 30-day guaranteeproviding peace of mind for shoppers. “You never know what you are going to find, there is something for everyone,” Hawkins said.
The rise of buy now, pay later
In addition to buying used, many shoppers are turning to buy now, pay later (BNPL) services to manage their purchases. This payment method has gained significant traction in the retail sector, offering consumers the flexibility to spread payments over a short period, often interest-free.
Retailers like Edgars and TFG have seen strong growth in BNPL usage, with the payment method proving particularly popular among younger consumers. At Edgars, BNPL has grown to account for just under 10% of the retailer’s sales mix in 2026, with users spending more than shoppers using most other payment methods.
“We have seen a marked shift away from lay-by towards BNPL as customers increasingly prefer to take possession of their purchases immediately rather than wait for a lay-by to be fulfilled,” said Retailability CEO Norman Drieselmann.
Managing debt and financial stress
While BNPL can make purchases more affordable, it’s essential to use these services responsibly. Financial advisor Nicole Carlon warns that using BNPL too frequently can lead to financial stress. “The problem is when you want to start keeping up with the Joneses,” Carlon said. “Just because the installment is smaller doesn’t mean you can afford it.”
Experts advise tracking all installment payments carefully to avoid fees and overdraft charges. Missing payments can also impact your ability to pay other debts, as these installments may not show on a credit report. “It can give you the false sense of affordability,” said Jenn Jessopdebt solutions manager at America First Credit Union.
Ultimately, the key to successful shopping, whether buying used or using BNPL, is to be intentional and cautious with your purchases. By doing so, you can furnish your home and manage your finances without unnecessary stress.
