Purchasing a house, condo or townhouse can be one the most exciting times in one’s life. If you’re a first time homeowner, downsizing or up-sizing, the task of furnishing your newly acquired domicile may be surprisingly daunting.

Homeowners who have never purchased upholstered furniture are usually unaware of what to look for when it’s time to buy. For people who are downsizing, they need to think about what to keep and what to throw out. When it comes to up-sizing, the question is what else do we need? There is also the question of “space”. What is going to fit in your space while still giving the most amount of seating and the look and feel you want?

When searching for the perfect piece or pieces of upholstered furniture, have the room dimensions handy. You won't get far in your hunt if you don't know what your measurement restrictions are. It would be ideal not only to have your measurements with you, but also a small perimeter sketch of the room itself with the location of walls, doorways, window and fireplaces are vastly helpful.

Have an idea of configuration. Are you looking for a sectional, or a sofa and love seat? It's ok if you don't know. Look for advice from a seasoned salesperson or designer who should be informative of various options based on lifestyle, wants and needs.

Fabric or Leather? The question always comes up. Some homeowners know beforehand what they want. Those who don't may find it easier to base their decisions knowing that leather can last you anywhere from 5 to 50 years depending on how well it is cared for. Leather requires little maintenance; spills and dirt are usually easily wiped up with a damp tea towel. Fabrics come in a variety of patterns and colours that range in the thousands and companies are always coming out with new styles and textures.

Throw it out or have it reupholstered? Family heirloom? Was it made in Canada? Was it an expensive purchase? Does it have a hard wood frame? If you answered yes to any of these questions you may want to have your current upholstered piece reupholstered. Mostly everything else isn't worth the expense of reupholstering since the cost is usually equal to buying a new piece.

Find out about where and how the product is built. The majority of furniture that is sold in Canada comes from overseas. There is some foreign furniture that is really well made but unfortunately the majority of overseas furniture is not and the chance to have it serviced if it does break down is usually non existent. Make sure there is a warranty that comes with your purchase and that the product is serviceable if it does happen to break down.

When you can't find what you want, custom upholstery is the answer. Are you trying to find a specific style and colour in the leather or fabric like? It may be a difficult task. Add the size you need and configuration you want to that equation and you may be looking for something that might not exist. However, you can have a piece or pieces custom made, it is possible to find a bespoke furniture store that can make something from a draft or picture from a magazine.

Purchasing a house or condo should be a time of great joy and furnishing your new home, equally so. With these tips on how to choose upholstered furniture, you will minimize the stress of buying while maximizing the fun of finding the piece that is right for you.

For more information on upholstered furniture, options and styles you can go to www.greensofadesigns.blogspot.com or you can visit Green Sofa Designs @ 2575 Dundas St. West, Mississauga ON. 905-607-7632.