Whether you're doing a full-out renovation or just searching for a good buy on home goods, showroom models are a great bargain in December, says Kerrie Kelly, author of "Home Decor" and owner of the Kerrie Kelly Design Lab in Northern California. Look for everything from appliances and furniture to lighting and plumbing, she says.
"Everyone's getting their showroom floors ready for 2012," says Kelly. "So you can get some really good deals for those pieces."
You can save 30 percent to 50 percent, and closer to half off "especially on higher-end items," she says. Be sure to inspect each item for scratches, dents and dings.
To get your money's worth with furniture, stick to pieces that will have some longevity in your home, she says. Look for "something that's not too trendy and something that could be re-covered," she says. And check that the proportions are what you want in your home, she says.