Does anyone know the average prices for rent-to-own furniture and products? I'm looking to move out on my own, and depending on cost-effectiveness, I'm not sure using the local laundromat would be a wise idea, as well as purchasing a refrigerator. I need to get an idea of how much it would be to rent a washer, dryer, and refrigerator. I looked at the national website and it had no ball-park prices or anything, just a lengthy form to fill out, and I particularly dislike filling those out. If anyone could help me out, it'd be much appreciated, thanks.

I don't know specifics about local, but let me tell you, no matter where I have lived (Oregan, Maine, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New york), all the Rent-to-own places in the end costed twice as much as simply buying.

There are a TON of furniture stores that take trade ins and have old floor models, especially college towns. Why not go to one of these places, or local thrift stores, etc and buy el-cheapo furniture.

Sagus and I went to look at a stack washer and dryer for example. We bought one at Sears for $799. The Rent to own for the SAME machine was asking (after all was said and done) $2200.

Another suggestion, look at the newspapers from the town you are going to go to college at. The students that are leaving/graduating sell their stuff for super cheap to get rid of it.

Also look in local Trader Magazines. They are usually found free at super markets and businesses. ALSO, supermarkets often have a "SELL THIS" bulletin board. LOTS of ideas to help you get started.

I agree with Sher. Renting to own is highway robbery. (so to speak) It is convenient, though, because there's no down payment and no credit check.

When I first when out on my own, I used the laundromat. Great place to me people and you can do more the one load at a time.

I bought my furniture at Goodwill and Salvation Army stores. Not bad stuff if you're not picky. I did by a new matress for the bed frame I bought. A "Hollywood" head board style. You know, the one with a bookshelf behind your head. Still have it after, let's just say, lots of years in our spare room.

As I got the money, I would replace items as needed.

LOLOL! I'm with ami!!!

we are currently purchasing furniture thru a rent to own place, and let me tell ya....if you're late with 1 pymt, they WILL come to your home and try to repo the item LOL it does get VERY expensive, doing it rent to own. we finally have most of the items paid off, but I'm very choosy about my furniture, so didn't do any good going to Goodwill, for me. Items bought thru rent to own places do end up costing you twice if not 3 times more than you can find it in classifieds, or elsewhere. I do not recommend it to anyone, really