Need new furniture? July's the time to buy

HOUSTON Experts say July is the month to buy furniture because, in general, the furniture industry -- like the auto industry -- has new models, or in this case, new pieces that are coming out for the fall. That's why you will see clearance events and stores that want to get rid of the old and make room for the new.

At IKEA off the Katy Freeway, there is no need to hunt for the deals. The store has just posted new "Last Chance" signs so they can make room for their new fall inventory.

"They are the last chance and they are reduced in price," said Margret Kollen with IKEA Houston.

For example, a chair at IKEA was $149. Now its Last Chance price is $99.

"Definitely a great place to come and get the biggest bang for your buck," shopper Tiara Martin said.

But if you are looking for deals on some of their most popular pieces, the store has just launched a new lower price campaign, marking down customer favorites in every department of the store.

"We are working closely with our suppliers so that we can lower prices," Kollen said.

Over at Rooms To Go, we found deals on furniture when you buy a complete set. For example, a seven-piece living room set sold separately costs $2,115.95, but as a set, the price is $1,788. That's a savings of $327.95.

At Ashley Furniture Home Store, they have a similar deal. The store has a five-piece set on sale for $1,599 but you'll get two additional chairs for free with the purchase price.

At Gallery Furniture, they are having a sale on bedroom sets. For example, a king bed, chest of drawers, dresser, mirror and nightstand normally cost $2,400 but they're on sale for half off for $1,200.

"We have been to 10 different stores in the last 10 days and this is it," another shopper said.

If you'd rather shop online, we checked out high-end store Pottery Barn. Right now they are having their warehouse clearance. We found barstools that were originally $419 on sale for $159.99 and a dining table that was $599 on sale for $399.99.

If you are going furniture shopping, here are some things to keep in mind:

• Look for the floor model deals. At Gallery Furniture, one floor model bed was $1,499.99 but at 70 percent off it's now $450.
• Some stores will negotiate on clearance items
• Ask for free delivery

The bottom line is, you are going to find the best deals in final chance clearance or floor sample models. Just be sure to ask what the return policy is, because many of these items are sold as is and final sale.

Also, on new furniture, you are going to want to shop clearance centers. Star Furniture and Rooms To Go have outlet centers in the Houston area, so check your favorite store for those locations.