Go ahead and look the furniture over for what you want. At least it will allow the sales person to come back with his best price. Lots of these stores also get scrached items that they cannot sell at full price. Ask to see them. They usually keep them in the basement or in a back room.
Auctions are also a good place to look.
Be sure to set yourself a limit before starting the bid though. Don't over bid because of the excitement of the moment. Dale R Shopping Is the Key I have also reached the point in my life where I want all the furniture I buy to last for many years. However, I'm unwilling to pay Ethan Allen prices. There's no substitute for just shopping around - take your time and visit many different shops in your area and in neighboring towns.