ReStore vs. Big Box Retail [VIDEO]

Are you finding yourself with a laundry list of home improvement projects and no way to sustainably afford them all? Redesigning a room in your home, or even adding a few new decorative items from a big box store can add up quickly. With ReStore, you can get all the supplies you need for your home makeover within budget.

ReStore has similar inventory like other home improvement big box stores but offers unbeatable prices because most items are donated. When you shop at ReStore, you can find new and gently used home improvement products, furniture, lighting, and building materials. Donated items come from people like you as well as local businesses, all of which are available to be purchased by people like you and the public. The proceeds support Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity's mission of making affordable homeownership available to more people.

What can I expect to find at ReStore? 

From building supplies to gently used furniture, ReStore has it all. When you go to a ReStore near you, you can expect to find:

But just because the product is there now doesn’t mean it will stay for long! ReStore’s inventory flips quickly as people are eager to jump on the low prices and unique finds. Since ReStore is donations based, the items found inside the store are constantly changing. That being said, there are a few items, such as Amazon Paint, that can always be found on ReStore’s shelves.

Deals that you should pay attention to

To stay on top of ReStore’s new products and upcoming sales, sign up for Hot Deals. This biweekly email is the best way to find out when the next sale is happening. You can also become a ReStore VIP to get text message updates. You’ll also want to follow ReStore on Facebook and Instagram to see new inventory or other DIY tips.

Another great way to get a deal is to volunteer! When you become a regular volunteer, you always get 20% OFF your purchase (excludes red tagged items). If you want to volunteer one time, we’re happy to give you that same deal on the day you volunteer for the item you just need to have.

ReStore vs. big box prices

At ReStore, prices are often less than typical retail prices. Below are a few examples. 

• Furniture: You can expect to purchase new or lightly used furniture anywhere from $40- $500. At other retailers, you’re lucky to spot anything under $1,000.

• Lumber: Wood costs have been on the rise. At a box store such as Home Depot, you can expect to spend around $3.50 per square foot on lumber. At ReStore, you will pay around $1.70 per square foot. 

• Appliances: Purchasing appliances is expensive. Most appliances that are donated to ReStore are less than 5 years old and are in great condition. Forgo high prices ranging from $450- $1,500 at Menards and score an appliance at ReStore for as little as $125. 

• Supplies: Having the right supplies is critical when it comes to home improvement projects, but that doesn’t mean you have to spend an arm and a leg to get them. At ReStore, enjoy prices as low as $1.00. 

Pricing is based on current inventory and is subject to change.

As well as being cost effective, shopping at second hand stores is better for our planet. These kinds of stores help extend a product's life cycle, keeping the item in someone's home and out of a landfill a little bit longer. Maybe you have some items in your home you are ready to part ways with. Instead of throwing it away, consider donating it to a ReStore location near you to give it a second life. If you’re in the Twin Cities area, you can learn more about donating here.

When you shop at ReStore, not only are you getting incredible deals and helping the environment, but you are also helping make an impact on a serious cause. All proceeds of ReStore go towards Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity's mission. Shop to spruce up your home with the added benefit of knowing you are helping a family get one step closer to becoming homeowners.