I couldn't agree more.

I have a few of the 'lesser' pieces scattered around better quality and older, well made furniture and wish I'd never purchased them. Can't even describe what pieces of garbage they are.

I bought a kitchen table and chairs, sight unseen, from Macy's. The reviews were all glowing. All I can think is that people's expectations have really been lowered. A nice set from Craigslist would have been a fraction of the price and much better quality.

I compromise, sometimes, so I can have some really nice things, like a French Heritage DR table, etc.

It's the times, I'm afraid. People are spending their disposable income on cell phones, cable, high speed internet. We buy services now instead of good furniture and the only money people seem to be willing to part with are for the toys that those services run (plasma screens, computers, ipods...). *sigh*

Antiques....or at least vintage is the way to go....unless you are spending really big bucks!
Linda C

I don't think that people understand investing in furniture anymore. Because of obsolescence in things such as electronics etc. people have started to treat furniture the same way. I have clients who would rather spend less money on a piece of furniture and dispose of it later when they are tired of it or it gets worn.

My parents paid $1100 on sale for a sofa in 1969. That was a lot of money for them, but the sofa (as well as all of the other furniture) is still there, reupholstered but in mint condition. If you consider the life cycle, it has been $50/yr if their total investment in it has been $2000.