I'd say that the site is pretty accurate, though quality may also differ drastically within a store vs. manufacturing brand since many stores now (including Restoration Hardware, La-Z-Boy, etc) import parts of their sofa or the entire piece resulting in subpar quality and reducing longevity of the item. Also, not sure what your definition of "decent" is... something that will last 5 yrs or 25 yrs? For your budget, I'd visit Raymour&Flanigan... they definitely carry several leather sectionals, many of which offer different sizes and components. For leather sofas, your budget is much more workable. Pottery Barn has several leather sofas and most stores have at least a fabric-upholstered version in their store. Personally, I'd stay away from Ethan Allen and Thomasville (I believe they have locations in Albany) since I have heard their customer service is horrendous to deal with and quality has diminished over the years. But, it wouldn't hurt to take a look, again, depending on your definition of "decent". Many of these stores have floor models or clearance pieces which can be had at a steal. With that said, I am not an expert by any means, but a homeowner who was in a very similar position just weeks ago. We were also looking at a small leather sectional and we, too, live in CNY (moved from capital region to Syracuse last year). Our budget limit was set at $5000, though, and even with that, found it extremely difficult to find a high quality leather sectional. After much research, I felt that if we were investing that much into a leather piece of furniture, I wanted the best we could get. There was no way we were going to find something brand new, kiln-dried hardwood, 8-way tied springs, down/foam cushions and stay within our budget. I even looked online (Casco Bay and Comfortable Couch Company) and their quotes for a leather sectional started at $6000+. DH and I went to Raymour&Flanigan and found all leather to be imported or plywood framed... none had 8-way tied springs. While not surprised, we were a little shocked that most of their leather sectionals sold for $4000+. In the end, we didn't find any of their furniture agreeing with the look we desired. What did we end up doing? Well, there is a Pottery Barn locally and the only leather sectional they currently offer is the Pearce (made in North Carolina) line and in 1 color, cognac. We saw the piece in person at the store and fell in love with the style and size. We were unable to find any other leather sectional that compared in style and size (and price). We debated for weeks, but when they had a sale on the item, plus doubled reward points when using their cc (basically will get $1000 back to spend in their store), we gave in and placed our order. I will say, though, that our main sense of security was by the assistance of the PB salesperson. She has worked at the store for 10+ yrs and is extremely reliable and available. She recommended that if any problems to should arise, to call her directly at the store and she would fix it for us. She told us that we should never deal with the 800-# for customer service. I hope this helps!

Julie, I had the same NFMart experience you did. I was completely overwhelmed by the store and DH ended up talking me into a soft Broyhill. DH..."Why are we here if were not going to buy anything?" After 4yrs the wood frame squeaks and it's so uncomfortable I'm always changing sitting positions. Have you been to Crowley Furniture in OP? I think they carry mid-line sofas but their service is excellent. The two sales people that helped me were decorators. It was great to bounce ideas off them, as well as get help with the multitude of fabric choices. If you're adventurous you could try T. Ormans. They advertise high end furniture at wholesale prices. Another overwhelming place for me. Tons of furniture spread out over a 70,000 sq ft building. I think you really have to know what you want before you go. They're only open Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays. I do think I'll visit NFM again. Next time I'll go during the week and be armed with a list of brands worthy to look at. I remember the back of the store had an area of higher quality furniture that wasn't prowled by hungry salespeople. Also, every time I try to find a dealer for one of the above mentioned brands it comes back as being carried by NFM. Jennifer

My mom purchased a new custom sectional, 100% polyester fabric, from Bassett about 6 months ago. No off gassing from day one, very well made and sturdy. It is extremely comfortable and have had many positive compliments regarding the style, comfort, and quality. We would definitely purchase from Bassett again but only through their custom program which is made in the USA. We did not like the quality of their other furniture they had on the showroom floor. It looked cheap like it was made in China. The only problem we incurred was delivery took twice as long as quoted. However, they did not charge her for delivery and gave a nice discount on another purchase she made. Our store was located on in Kennesaw, Ga.

I have an Ethan Allen dining table with 10 chairs, a buffet, sofa and oversized chair. Have had for about 10 years. I would not recommend EA furniture. The dining chairs have fared the worst even though we only use them for special occasions. The cording has come off several chairs and the seat cushion on one is completely gone. The buffet (which they still sell) has chipped paint in many places and the closing mechanism doesn't work so one door is slightly more open than the other. Re the sofa and chair, the down filling is not full enough to keep the cushions looking "puffed". It always looks messy. Super disappointed across the board. I assumed the dining room set would last a lifetime and be handed down. Not the case.