Partner resource / Buying guide
A considered home: the shopping checklist
Dimensions, materials, delivery and returns: the questions worth asking before you commit.
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01 / Measure twice
Record the item's full dimensions, not only its seat or usable surface. Measure doors, lifts and stair turns. Ask how it arrives, which parts can be removed and whether assembly is included.
02 / Understand the material
Read the composition, finish and maintenance guidance. Solid timber, veneer and composite construction each have different characteristics. Ask for samples when colour or texture is important. A photograph cannot tell you how a fabric feels.
03 / Work out the full cost
Check delivery, assembly and possible return collection charges. For cross-border orders, ask the seller about taxes, duties and who is responsible for them. Compare the final delivered cost rather than the headline price alone.
04 / Read the return conditions
Made-to-order and customised items may have different cancellation conditions. Keep the order details and check the retailer's current policy before paying. This guide is not legal advice and does not replace statutory rights.
05 / Give it time
Make room for the piece before it arrives. Keep care instructions and document any delivery damage promptly. Choosing slowly can help avoid purchases that solve the wrong problem.
