When you think of premium American-made furniture, Bassett likely comes to mind. With over a century of experience and a reputation for craftsmanship, Bassett has become a household name for custom sofas, solid wood tables, and made-to-order design. But while the brand presents itself as a high-quality, heritage option, many buyers are asking a different question: Is it worth paying full price?
At Reperch, we believe that buying secondhand furniture isn’t just practical it’s the smarter way to access premium brands like Bassett. Here’s why secondhand Bassett Furniture is often the better choice, especially when you consider cost, quality, customer experience, and sustainability.
What Makes Bassett Furniture Popular?
Founded in Virginia in 1902, Bassett began as a local operation selling lumber. Over time, it evolved into one of the most recognized American furniture manufacturers. The brand built its name on solid wood craftsmanship, customizable upholstery, and a made-in-USA promise.
Today, Bassett offers:
Sofas, sectionals, beds, dining sets, and storage furniture
Over 800 fabric and leather options
Custom finishes and catalyzed stains for added durability
Power reclining furniture with lay-flat designs and headrest controls
Frames built with unibody locking construction and solid wood
It’s a lineup designed to appeal to buyers who want long-lasting pieces and hands-on design input. But that level of customization and the showroom experience that comes with it can also come at a cost that many shoppers underestimate.
The Hidden Costs of Buying New from Bassett
While Bassett’s reputation is built on quality, real customer experiences reveal a more complicated picture.
1. High Prices for Basic Pieces
Bassett’s furniture is priced for the premium market. Expect to pay:
$1,200 for a basic dining table
$250 to $500 per dining chair
$1,300 or more for a leather ottoman
These prices reflect materials and customization, but they can stretch far beyond most people’s budgets. And once you factor in delivery, taxes, and protection plans, the final cost climbs quickly.
2. Customization Comes with Delays
Many Bassett pieces are made to order, which means lead times can extend from 4 to 8 weeks or longer. While this ensures attention to detail, it can also be frustrating if you need furniture sooner or if you’re furnishing a whole room on a timeline.
3. Quality Control Isn’t Always Consistent
Some customers have reported receiving damaged or defective pieces:
Chairs that wobble or arrive with chipped wood
Sofas with threads loose straight out of the box
Leather with noticeable scratches or surface marks
Missing stain or paint in connection points between wood panels
These types of issues raise questions about the consistency of Bassett’s quality control process. While the company is known for traditional craftsmanship, not every customer ends up with a flawless product.
4. Return Policies Can Be Limited
Bassett’s return policy varies depending on the item. Accessories can be returned within 30 days. Non-custom furniture can be canceled before shipment. But once custom pieces are ordered, cancellations must happen within 24 hours. After that, you're locked in even if the product has flaws.
Why Buying Secondhand Bassett at Reperch Is Smarter
Buying Bassett Furniture secondhand through Reperch allows you to enjoy the brand’s benefits without the price tag, risk, or delays. Here’s why it makes sense.
1. Access the Same Craftsmanship for Less
At Reperch, we regularly source pre-owned Bassett pieces that are still in excellent condition. These items were built to last, so even after years of use, they retain their value, structure, and visual appeal. When you buy secondhand:
You skip the markup and customization fees
You avoid unexpected add-ons like delivery surcharges
You get quality hardwood, not particle board, at a better price
It’s not uncommon to find a Bassett dining set for half the retail price or a leather ottoman that looks nearly new for under $500.
2. Get It Immediately No Wait Times
Reperch offers instant access to in-stock items. That means:
No 8-week production delays
No surprises at delivery
What you see is exactly what you get
All listings include detailed photos, dimensions, and condition notes so you can shop confidently. You can schedule a local pickup or opt for delivery, depending on your location.
3. Avoid the Risks of Custom Orders
When you shop secondhand, there are no cancellation fees, no restocking charges, and no pressure to commit before seeing the piece. At Reperch, all purchases include a 7-day return policy, so if something doesn’t work out, you’re not stuck.
Compare that with new purchases where the clock starts ticking the moment you sign and where returns on custom pieces may not be accepted at all.
4. Reuse Is Better for the Planet
Bassett promotes craftsmanship, but it’s still part of the broader retail cycle that consumes new materials and energy. When you choose to buy secondhand:
You reduce waste by extending the life of furniture
You avoid contributing to emissions from new production
You keep furniture out of landfills and in homes where it’s appreciated
It’s a sustainable decision that supports a circular economy. And because Bassett’s pieces are built to last, they’re perfect candidates for second, third, and even fourth lives.
What You Need to Know Before Buying Secondhand Bassett
If you’re considering a secondhand piece, especially one from a premium brand like Bassett, here are a few things to look for:
1. Check the Frame and Finish
Bassett uses hardwood and locking frame designs. Look for sturdy corners, solid joints, and any signs of wobble or weakness. A few scuffs are normal, but deep cracks or warping may affect the integrity.
2. Inspect Upholstery
If the piece includes fabric or leather, examine it for fading, tears, or excessive wear. Bassett often uses high-density foam, so cushions should hold their shape even after use.
3. Review the Dimensions
Always measure your space before buying any large piece of furniture. Use painter’s tape or cut newspaper to size if needed. Confirm that hallways, stairwells, and elevators can accommodate the item.
4. Confirm Delivery or Pickup Options
Reperch offers flexible delivery and pickup options depending on your area. Check availability during checkout and plan accordingly to make your move seamless.
What Other Buyers Are Saying
While Bassett’s branding emphasizes heritage and quality, customer experiences have been mixed. One reviewer praised the in-store service and placed multiple orders, only to discover flaws on delivery scratched leather, cracked table corners, and wobbly chairs.
Another buyer enjoyed the design process but found the product quality did not meet expectations. Calls to customer service resulted in delays and unfulfilled promises, even after acknowledging that a replacement table had been delayed for months.
These reviews reveal a critical truth: price does not always guarantee perfection. In fact, buying secondhand from a trusted source like Reperch often leads to a better overall experience especially when you know the item is in great condition before you buy.
Final Thoughts: Bassett Furniture, Smarter Secondhand
Bassett Furniture has earned its place as a well-known American brand. Its deep roots, design flexibility, and sturdy construction make it a solid option for homeowners who value longevity. But the truth is, you don’t have to buy new to enjoy those benefits.
Reperch makes it possible to own high-quality, brand-name furniture without the delays, guesswork, or cost of retail shopping. With a curated selection, verified condition, and flexible returns, we give you everything you love about Bassett, minus the fine print.
Whether you’re outfitting a new home or looking for a single standout piece, secondhand shopping at Reperch puts smart design and sustainable living within reach.
Ready to find your next favorite piece?
Explore our selection of pre-owned Bassett Furniture and other premium brands at Reperch today.
