Shopping at Habitat for Humanity ReStore: What to Know Before You Go

What Habitat for Humanity ReStore is and how it works

Habitat for Humanity ReStore is a thrift store chain run by Habitat for Humanity that sells new and gently used building materials, furniture, and home goods at steep discounts. The money from sales funds Habitat's mission to build and repair homes for families in need across South Carolina. When you shop at ReStore, you're buying affordable items while supporting local construction projects in your community.

ReStore locations accept donations of building supplies, appliances, fixtures, and furniture from contractors, homeowners, and businesses. Items are sorted, priced, and put on the sales floor. You'll find everything from kitchen cabinets and doors to paint, tools, lighting, and bedroom sets—often 50 to 90 percent below retail prices. Inventory changes constantly because stock depends entirely on what's donated.

South Carolina has multiple ReStore locations, each independently operated by local Habitat chapters. The largest stores are in the Charleston, Columbia, and Greenville areas, though smaller locations exist throughout the state. Each store has its own hours, inventory, and policies, so checking ahead before you visit saves time.

Key Takeaways

• ReStore sells new and used building materials, appliances, and furniture at discounts of 50 to 90 percent off retail prices.
• Inventory changes constantly based on donations, so the same item won't always be in stock or available at every location.
• Money from your purchases funds Habitat for Humanity's home-building and repair work in your local area.
• Most ReStore locations offer delivery for large items like appliances and cabinets, though fees vary by store and distance.
• You can donate items directly to ReStore, and many locations offer tax receipts for charitable deduction purposes.

What you'll find at ReStore and typical pricing

ReStore shelves stock building materials that homeowners and contractors regularly need: interior and exterior doors, windows, flooring, roofing materials, electrical fixtures, plumbing supplies, and hardware. Appliances—refrigerators, stoves, dishwashers, washers, and dryers—are common finds, usually priced between $100 and $400 depending on age and condition. Kitchen and bathroom cabinets, vanities, and countertops appear regularly, often at a fraction of new prices.

Furniture and home décor fill the back sections of most stores: dining tables, bedroom sets, shelving units, lamps, and decorative items. Prices for a used dining table might run $50 to $150, while a used refrigerator could be $200 to $350. A new box of tile or a door frame typically costs $10 to $50. Because donations drive inventory, you might find high-end items one week and basic supplies the next.

Most ReStore locations do not price-match or hold items. If you see something you want, buying it the same day is safer than returning later—it may be gone. Many stores do offer layaway options, though policies differ by location. Always ask staff about the condition and any defects before purchasing appliances or large items.

How to find your nearest ReStore location and hours

The easiest way to locate a ReStore near you is through the national Habitat for Humanity website, which lists all ReStore locations by state. You can also search "Habitat ReStore near me" or contact your local Habitat for Humanity chapter directly. South Carolina chapters maintain their own websites and social media pages, where they post current hours, upcoming sales, and newly arrived inventory highlights.

Hours vary widely. Some stores are open Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., while others close on Sundays or have shorter weekday hours. A few locations offer evening hours one or two nights a week. Calling ahead or checking the store's website before you visit prevents a wasted trip, especially if you're looking for something specific.

Many ReStore locations post photos of major donations on Facebook or their website, so following your local store's social media can alert you when high-value items arrive. Some stores also send email newsletters announcing sales events, seasonal clearance, or special promotions on specific categories.

Delivery and pickup options for large items

Most ReStore locations offer delivery for appliances, cabinets, and other large items, though not all stores provide this service. Delivery fees typically range from $25 to $100 depending on distance and item size, and you usually need to arrange it at the time of purchase. Some stores require delivery within a certain radius—often 10 to 20 miles—so ask before assuming your address qualifies.

If delivery isn't available or the cost is too high, you can arrange your own pickup using a truck rental service or asking friends to help load and transport. ReStore staff will help you get large items to your vehicle, but they typically don't load personal trucks. For appliances, confirm the item powers on and has no major damage before leaving the store.

Delivery timing varies. Some stores offer same-week delivery, while others schedule it weeks out depending on volume. Ask for a specific date range when you purchase, and get the store's contact number in case you need to reschedule.

Donating items to ReStore

ReStore accepts donations of building materials, appliances, furniture, and home goods in good condition. Items should be clean, functional, and free of major damage. Most locations do not accept items that are broken, stained beyond cleaning, or missing parts—call your local store first if you're unsure whether something qualifies.

You can drop off donations during store hours at most locations. Some larger ReStore stores have dedicated donation areas or separate entrances to speed up the process. If you have a large quantity of items or something too bulky to carry in, many stores offer pickup service for a fee or sometimes free, depending on the volume and your location.

Ask for a donation receipt when you drop off items. Many ReStore locations provide receipts that list the items donated, which you can use for tax deduction purposes if you itemize deductions on your federal return. Keep the receipt for your records and consult a tax professional about what you can deduct.

Sales events and seasonal promotions

ReStore locations run periodic sales throughout the year, often tied to seasons or holidays. Spring and summer typically bring sales on outdoor materials, tools, and landscaping supplies. Fall and winter may feature promotions on heating equipment, insulation, and interior finishing materials. Some stores hold clearance events when warehouse space fills up or when they need to make room for incoming donations.

Email newsletters and social media are the best ways to learn about upcoming sales. Many stores announce "ReStore Rewards" programs or loyalty discounts for repeat shoppers, though these vary by location. A few locations offer special shopping hours for seniors or people with mobility challenges—ask staff whether your store participates.

Grand opening sales, anniversary events, and community fundraisers sometimes bring extra discounts or special inventory. Following your local ReStore on Facebook or signing up for their email list takes just a few minutes and keeps you informed about deals you might otherwise miss.

What happens to your money when you shop at ReStore

Revenue from ReStore sales funds Habitat for Humanity's local building and repair work. Each ReStore is operated by a local Habitat chapter, so money stays in your community. Habitat uses these funds to build new homes for families, repair homes for elderly or disabled homeowners, and support disaster recovery efforts after storms or flooding.

Habitat for Humanity is a nonprofit organization, and ReStore operates as part of that mission. You can learn what your local chapter is building by visiting their website or asking staff in the store. Many chapters publish annual reports showing how many homes they've built or repaired and how much ReStore revenue contributed to that work.

If you want to know more about where your purchase money goes, ask the store manager or visit your local Habitat chapter's website. Most chapters are transparent about their finances and happy to share their impact in your area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do ReStore items come with warranties?

Most items are sold as-is with no warranty. Appliances and large items should be inspected before purchase to confirm they work. Some ReStore locations offer a brief return window (usually 24 to 48 hours) if an appliance doesn't power on or has a major defect, but policies vary by store. Always ask about the return policy before you buy.

Can I return something I bought if I change my mind?

Return policies differ by location. Some ReStore stores allow returns within a few days if the item is unused and in original condition, while others have no return policy at all. Ask about the return window and any conditions before you leave the store with your purchase.

Are ReStore prices negotiable?

Prices are typically fixed, and most stores do not negotiate. However, during clearance sales or when items have been on the floor for a long time, staff may have some flexibility. It never hurts to ask politely, especially if you're buying multiple items or a large piece of furniture.

How often does inventory change?

Inventory changes daily or several times a week, depending on how many donations arrive and how quickly items sell. Popular items like appliances and cabinets move fast. If you're looking for something specific, visiting multiple times over a few weeks increases your chances of finding it.

Can I buy building materials in bulk for a construction project?

Yes, many ReStore locations work with contractors and builders. Call your local store to discuss bulk purchases or large orders. Some stores offer contractor discounts or can set aside items if you give them advance notice of what you need.