CINCINNATI — For those shopping for a new refrigerator or living room couch, choices are slim, and waits can be months long due to supply shortages.

"When I check on our vendor websites, they are just not available," Cincinnati kitchen appliance distributor Ken Reiman told us a few months ago.

Since then, supplies have improved a bit, but shoppers still report long waits for many items for their homes.

But what about those who don't have three months to wait? The best option might be a used appliance or piece of furniture.

Quality used and overstock goods

Beth Benson is a vice president of ReStore, a nonprofit seller of used household goods nationwide that benefits Habitat for Humanity. The organization has more than 800 locations nationwide, including Cincinnati stores in Bond Hill, Fairfield, Cheviot, and Florence.

"We have couches, chairs, and dining room tables," Benson said. "And we sometimes have collectible things, like mid-century modern. We clean it all up and treat it, and it is ready to go."

With prices high and waits for building supplies often long at chain stores, retailers specializing in used and overstock appliances and furniture can be the solution — especially if money is tight or a shopper needs an item right away.

When it comes to appliances, the ReStore offers everything from 1975 Lady Kenmore washers (in gold, of course) to a 5-year-old Kitchen Aid stainless fridge with an indoor ice maker.

The best thing about buying used is that consumers can find working dishwashers for $100 and microwaves for just $40.

Or, how about a slightly used $10,000 Thermador range for just $2,000?

"If I were opening a small cafe or restaurant right now and I needed to stock my kitchen, this Thermador would be perfect," Benson said.

All the items at ReStore have been tested out and have a 30-day money-back guarantee (be sure to check return policies at other used appliance stores).

But it is not just furniture and appliances that are available.

"We always have overstock cabinets, plumbing, light fixtures," Benson said.

That means the clawfoot tubs and brand new wood flooring that contractors say is on backorder might be available at a local ReStore or similar used-goods outlet.

Shopper James Kellor loves the selection and bargain prices.

"I have bought some new stuff, at a decent price, versus going to the big box stores," he said.

Other great used furniture shops

Looking for a little bit more upscale furniture?

Then check out the Snooty Fox Furniture Den -- with Cincinnati locations in Harper's Point, West Chester, Mariemont, and Anderson Township.

Owner Donna Speigel says you'll find well maintained bedroom, living room, and classic items.

"Every day is a treasure hunt," she said.

Also check out:

No long waits or supply chain issues at any of these places.

So don't shrug off the idea of buying used during supply shortages and long delays. That way, you don't waste your money.

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Donna Speigel is optimistic, she said Friday. The Snooty Fox, her chain of luxury clothing and furniture consignment stores, is finally on the rebound after a year of constant uncertainty.

“The first couple of weeks (after we reopened), we set records we will probably never see again,” she said. “There were thousands and thousands of pieces that came in the door, and we had lines out the door to look at everything."

Shopping in person at The Snooty Fox, which has seven locations spread throughout Southwest Ohio and Northern Kentucky, is an experience that can’t entirely be replicated on the internet.

"Every day is like a treasure hunt,” she said. “With all the stores, we average about 2,000 pieces a day that come in. We have customers that come in everyday because they are afraid they are going to miss something."

And that kind of shopper — the one who walks in regularly to examine the Fox’s ever-changing inventory — can even get a ride from the chain itself.

Speigel said she’s excited for the resumption of her store’s day-long bus tours, which take their paying passengers from location to location in search of hidden gems.

They’ve been popular for 16 years, she added.

“People that come in the spring will already book for the fall,” according to Speigel.

Now, it’s safe to start them again.