Sources and Options for Inexpensive TV Stands
It’s a bit of a downer. You just dropped $2K on a super High-Def Plasma TV and you’re siked, only to realize that acquiring a tv stand to go along with it is going to cost your another $200 to $400 dollars. Yeah, tv stands have gone up in price just like everything else, and you could part with a couple Benjamins to get a decent one. Luckily, I have a few options for you. Here are several sources you might consider if you are interested in an inexpensive television stand.
The Goodwill or Salvation Army
I know, I know. They are not the most prestigious of retail outlets. But you want inexpensive, and these are about as inexpensive as they get. The cool thing about these places, besides being cheap, is that you might be able to find some interesting vintage tv stands. Something with character and a little bit of wear might be perfect for your loft or fixer-upper.
Liquidation Sales
The economy is rough, and with a rough economy comes bankruptcies and store closures. That means there will be more and more bright yellow signs highlighting liquidation sales. When Circuit City closed its doors, there were some excellent deals on modern tv stands and accessories. Keep your eyes open for these.
Bulk Resellers
By bulk resellers, I basically mean companies that buy items in lots and thus get a much cheaper price which they can pass on to you. Check out Big Lots or The Dump if there is one in your area. You can pick up some nice stuff for a LOT less.
Online Retailers
Don’t count out the online retailers. Sites like Target, Wal-Mart, Amazon, and Ikea have great deals and even greater deals on special occasions. You just want to avoid furniture and electronics retailers if you want inexpensive.
Craigslist or Freecycle
No list of inexpensive sources for household items would be complete without mentioning Craigslist and Freecycle. People often sell tv stands on Craigslist for next to nothing because they want them out of their house. On Freecycle, people do sell tv stands for nothing because they want them out of their house, or to have another life with a loving family 
Build your Own
If none of those options work for you, you might just want to build your own. You can find plans online for building a basic stand, and add your own enhancements along the way. This will only cost you materials and any equipment you don’t already have. Of course, it might cost your some sweat and maybe some blood and tears if you miss a nail, but it is often worth it. You get a stand for your tv, some room in your budget, and pride knowing you built it yourself.