that term sound familiar? If you've ever hunted for big-ticket home bargains, it will be. Scratch and dent refers to brand new, large appliances sold at heavy discounts by third party retailers. Ideally, these appliances are perfectly fine. They're fresh off the assembly line, unused, and function as they were designed. o brand new, large appliances sold at heavy discounts by third party retailers. Ideally, these appliances are perfectly fine. They're fresh off the assembly line, unused, and function as they were designed.
The only difference is that their external packaging was damaged at some point. In theory, the only issue with these appliances is slight and merely cosmetic. Often, any scratches or dents are minor and out of sight.
By purchasing a scratch and dent appliance, you can get a fridge, stove, or washer in mint condition for a used appliance price. If you're lucky, you might snatch up something for 40 to 60 percent off its retail cost.
Like any sweet-sounding deal though, there are a few catches. Don't expect any white glove deliveries. The removal of old appliances and installation of new ones is your problem. And that's just for starters.
Decide what you're in the market for first
Just like grocery shopping when you're hungry, don't stroll into a scratch and dent store without a plan. If you do, you might end up with something you don't need. Figure out as many details as possible first. Narrow down the type of appliance you want. That could be a fridge, dishwasher, washer, what have you. Tune anything else out.
Next, make a list of features and prioritize them. For instance, your must-have item in a fridge may be an in-door water dispenser. Maybe you have a thing for front loading laundry machines. You might feel the same way about stainless steel, or a pearl-white finish. Whatever floats your boat, know before you go.