Planning on buying new furniture and accessories for your home? A wide range of home furnishings and home decor accessories are available in the marketplace. If this is your first home, check out our directory of furniture retailers in your area for ideas and cost comparisons. Or you may already have a favorite style and a furniture retailer that you’ve worked with in the past. Whatever your situation, it’s always a good idea to do some research before visiting a retailer or finding a custom furnishings manufacturer.

Start your research right here on Houzz. Read through professionals’ profile pages to find out important details, like how long a manufacturer has been in business. Look at reviews by design professionals and find out which furniture makers offer the best customer service. Are you looking for condo-size furnishings or working with an oddly shaped room? Necessity is the mother of invention, so opt for a custom piece made by an experienced furniture maker. Here are some related professionals and vendors to complement the work of furniture and accessories: Interior Designers & Decorators, Artists and Artisans, Kids and Nursery, Closet & Home Storage Designers, Bedding and Bath.

Take your time on any buying decisions. If contemporary is your style, don’t buy something traditional because it’s on sale. Many home furnishers offer interior design consultations or room planning guides to get you started. Whether you decide to work with a home decor specialist or to become your own expert, it’s important not to rush the furniture-buying process. Visit plenty of showrooms and stores so you can feel comfortable with your purchase.

Have fun creating spaces that reflect your personality and style preferences. The main factor in dressing up any room is the furniture, while accessories like decorative wall shelves and lighting are like a room’s jewelry. Whatever your style, surround yourself with accessories and products that you’ll enjoy.

What if you aren’t ready to splurge on new furniture? Some new artwork or a new area rug can go a long way toward updating a room. When it comes to freshening things up, don’t rule out small home accessory items, like a new table lamp or wall clock.

Here are some basic questions to ask before visiting furniture makers or buying furniture and accessories:

• What is my budget?
• What is the room used for and how large is the space?
• What are my must-have furniture items?
• Am I looking for heirloom-quality home furnishings or collection pieces?
• Do I need custom-made items?

Find furniture and accessories manufacturers, showrooms and retailers on Houzz. Narrow your search in the Professionals section of the website to furniture and accessories, then choose the nearest metro area for showrooms and retailers. Or you may want to look through photos to find designs you like and contact the furniture manufacturers and showroom galleries directly.