If you’re not on an extreme budget I say just go for it. What else can you do? You can shop on C’sList for second hand stuff, but, if you want something unique and of quality, well….I don’t think about the issues you have raised, if I want something and can afford it I just buy it. My furniture is all from Pier One imports, a little pricier for some pieces but it was the look I wanted. You CAN ask about purchasing display models for a discount. I did this with a hide-a-bed loveseat and big ottoman with storage at Pier One. I got the unused display set for 10% off. I also bought my washer and dryer, Maytags, as the floor models for a hell of a deal. :-)