This has been my experience:
I found a recliner to purchase…read moreat Home Makers Furniture on Bell Creek Road in Mechanicsville. It was about $4K with a $400 after manufacturers warranty plan.
The sales manager, Jeff Funk, had me initial in 3 places, and then sign a receipt that stated "if you cancel the order, we keep a 20% restocking fee". He reviewed this fee AFTER I SIGNED EVERYTHING. I heard him imply that this was if I cancelled the order after receiving it if it was not as expected.
I asked when the expected delivery would be. He said "2-6 weeks, but most likely 2 weeks."
My husband and I are seniors on fixed incomes. I told him this and that it was a huge purchase for us. I found we needed the money for medical reasons and called 7 days later to cancel. He said "You signed a contract so we will refund all but 20%" and " I just received the recliner and have to now pay to keep it in storage". I was very upset and attempted to negotiate 10%. This offer was shot down within 24 hours.
I have reported this to the BBB and to my bank who are assisting.
This unethical practice violates
Section 59.1-200 of the Virginia Consumer Protection Act , Section 16(a) reads:
16. Failing to disclose all conditions, charges, or fees relating to:
a. The return of goods for refund, exchange, or credit. Such disclosure shall be by means of a sign attached to the goods, or placed in a conspicuous public area of the premises of the supplier, so as to be readily noticeable and readable by the person obtaining the goods from the supplier.
I therefore cannot recommend this company. Buyer beware of non-clear disclosure. NOWHERE IS THIS POSTED IN THEIR STORE, NOR WAS I SHOWN THIS IN WRITING MAKING IT CLEAR TO ME WHAT THE STIPULATIONS WERE BEFORE SIGNING THIS CONTRACT SALES RECEIPT.
***UPDATE JULY 2025***
My credit card co. accepted my dispute and refunded my money, keeping 10% as I requested. Additionally, I was receiving several calls a day from this sales person, finally leaving a detailed message that my bank requested I call him back to settle. When checking with my bank/CC co., they advised me that they told this man to not continue to call me but to work with the bank only. I blocked his calls.
Not smart for a smaller business chain to operate in this way. You treat one customer poorly, you lose hundreds more.
Out of curiosity, I deep dived further into this brand of sofa. Walmart was selling the exact model--for $2,000 less.
