New furniture vs. old/used furniture. Which do you think is better quality?

We are moving in about a month into a much larger house and have been furniture shopping for pieces to fill up the house. We are looking for a dining room set, kitchen table set, miscellaneous chairs, tables, etc.

Last weekend we visited several new furniture stores. I was so disappointed in the quality of the furniture they were selling and at super high prices. I felt very discouraged. I don't want to pay outrageous prices for furniture that won't last.

Then during the week I stopped at a little antique shop near my home. I was so surprised at how well older furniture was built. And the prices were so cheap!!

We have decided to purchase all used/antique furniture. If it needs a little work, we're fine with that, we will fix up what needs to be fixed up. The woods are strong and the craftsmenship of the pieces can't be beat. Plus older furniture has so much more "style" then the new furniture you find at retail furniture stores.

Plus we will be giving a local family-run store some great business. I will pass on the word to any of my friends that older furniture is the way to go.

So, how do you feel about purchasing older/antique furniture for your home?

Which do you think is better quality. New or old?

Please share your experiences/stories.

Thank you!