How to Shop at Twin Cities Habitat ReStore

If you've never shopped at a Twin Cities Habitat ReStore location before, you're in for a worthwhile shopping experience. But you also might not know what to expect.

The stores carry donated and surplus home improvement materials at discounted prices and every purchase supports affordable homeownership in the Twin Cities. Shopping second-hand also makes a difference on the environment. Every item you buy at ReStore is one less thing ending up in a landfill.

Here, we cover what you'll find, how pricing works, and a few tips to help your trip go smoothly.

What Can You Find at ReStore?

Finding quality home improvement materials at a price that works for your budget can be hard. ReStore makes it a little easier.

Inventory comes from donations made by local contractors, businesses, retailers, and individuals, which means the selection is always changing. On any given visit, you're likely to find furniture, kitchen cabinets, lighting, appliances, hardware and plumbing supplies, paint, flooring (tile, vinyl, wood, and laminate), doors, tools, and windows.

Because most items are donated, prices are already deeply discounted from retail. If you know exactly what you need or you're just happy to browse, there's a good chance you'll find something you’ll want to take home.

If you spot something you love but need a little time to check measurements or get input, we're happy to hold items for two hours without payment. And if you've already purchased something but need a few extra days to arrange transportation, we can store it for up to three business days.

How Does Shopping at ReStore Work?

Walking into a new store can feel a little uncertain. At ReStore, you might not always be sure what you'll find, but that's part of the fun. Here’s what you need to know.

When you arrive, you'll find shopping carts at the front of the store, along with panel carts, flat carts, and A-frame carts throughout the aisles to help you get your items to your vehicle.

A few things:

• Bring a tape measure. Sizes vary and inventory moves quickly, so measuring on the spot saves you a trip back. Forgot yours? Just ask at customer service, we'll lend you one in exchange for your car keys.
• Come with your project measurements ready. Because inventory changes daily, what you see today may not be there on your next visit. Having your measurements on hand means you can make a confident call when you find the right piece.
• Prices are set. ReStore does not negotiate on price. The discounts are already built in.
• Watch for Hot Deals. Keep an eye out for "Hot Deals" signs in-store, sign up for the ReStore email newsletter, or become a ReStore VIP to get advance notice on sales and new inventory.

How to Find the Best Deals

Getting the most out of ReStore comes down to timing and knowing where to look. The best way to stay on top of new inventory and sales is to visit often and sign up for ReStore's email newsletter. Donations arrive daily, so the selection shifts quickly — something that wasn't there last week may be exactly what you need today.

You can also follow ReStore on Facebook and Instagram to get a feel for what's currently on the floor. Keep in mind that inventory changes throughout the day, so social posts are a preview, not a guarantee of availability.

If you don't find what you're looking for on your first visit, ReStore restocks continually, and many shoppers find what they need within a few trips.

You’re Ready to Shop!

Stop by one of the Twin Cities Habitat ReStore locations and see what's in store waiting for you. And if you’re looking to donate, here’s how.