The first consideration when renting furniture will probably be price. The reason for this is because most of the rental cost is rental fees and not toward the purchase cost. This is ok however in that the intent, at least from this point of view is to rent the equipment or furniture to see if it fits into your lifestyle and home. If you purchase directly and the color is wrong, or that flat screen television isn't exactly right, too bad you own it. With furniture renting or try before you buy, if it's wrong, it's a simple matter to get an exchange or replacement.