I had the same thought, used furniture from the thrift stores. Went to my local goodwill and found an old dresser. Wow I though solid wood. A deal at $15.00. Took it home and started to dismantle. What a disappointment particle board with a thin laminate of wood. This was a two drawer dresser and I was able to get two drawer fronts. Trying to get the drawer backs, sides and bottom was another disaster. They had been put together with so much glue and staples that I just gave up. That was my last adventure in used furniture. I don't know maybe in the northern areas you can get some deals but down here in Miami, not so much.