I am often asked should I buy a second hand Office Chair? And if so, what do I need to look for and avoid?

Here’s the advice I would offer.

If you are considering buying a second hand Office Chair it is likely that it will be from one of the following sources.

• Private sale from ad in paper or local newsagent’s window cards

• A website e.g. eBay

• A friend or someone you know

• A second hand furniture dealer

• An auction

Wherever you are considering buying a second hand Office Chair from there are some key questions you’ll want to ask, so do your best to get them answered.

• How old is the chair?

• How much use has the chair had? Use your eyes and common sense

• What did the chair cost new? Have they the receipt as proof?

• Is the chair from a reputable maker and is it still a current model?

• Does the chair come with any guarantee?

• Why is the seller selling the chair?

Take a good look at the Office Chair, thoroughly try out all the chair’s functions and make sure they operate smoothly. Check that the chair’s upholstery and coverings are in good condition.

Look to pay no more than 50% of the original price no matter how good the condition seems, significantly less if there are signs of wear. Remember, it is likely that there was a good discount off the list price, so make sure you allow for this in evaluating the price of the second hand Office Chair.

Be prepared to haggle over the price, if you don’t ask you won’t get.

Unless you are offered a cast iron guarantee I would be wary of buying a second hand Office Chair over the Internet. Obviously, if the seller is local and you are able to visit and try the Office Chair out this wouldn’t be a problem.

Always try and confirm the original price of any second hand Office Chair you are looking to buy, bear in mind the seller is going to make it sound as good as they can. If it is an established make, ring round dealers or even the manufacturer to get an idea of its real value.

If you apply the above rules when you consider a second hand Office Chair you should minimise the risk of being saddled with a bad bargain. Happy hunting in your search for a second hand Office Chair.