You’re walking down South Jefferson Avenue in Lebanon, maybe grabbing a coffee at Jude’s or heading over to the Route 66 Museum, and you see it. National TV Sales & Rental. It’s been a fixture in Laclede County since the mid-eighties. But honestly, if you haven’t stepped inside, you might have some preconceived notions about what goes on in there.
Is it just a place to get a couch if your credit is shot? Not exactly.
The story of National TV Lebanon MO isn't just about furniture or refrigerators. It’s actually the headquarters for a massive regional operation that started right here in our backyard. Mark and Kathy Windsor opened the very first location in June 1986. Since then, it has grown into a 19-store network across Missouri, but the "brain" of the whole company still sits right here in Lebanon.
Why National TV Lebanon MO Is More Than Just a Rental Store
Most people think of rent-to-own as a last resort. You’ve probably heard the horror stories about high interest rates or aggressive collections. But at the Lebanon headquarters, the vibe is surprisingly different. It’s a family-run business—literally. The Windsors still host an annual barbecue at Windsor Farm for their employees, serving up beef from their own cattle. That kind of local culture trickles down to how they treat customers.
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They don't just do TVs. You can find Ashley Furniture, Whirlpool appliances, and even Michael Kors handbags. It’s a weird, eclectic mix. One minute you’re looking at a stainless-steel Frigidaire, and the next you’re checking out DeWalt power tools or a new Samsung smartphone.
The Financial Reality (Let's Be Real)
Let’s talk about the elephant in the room: the cost.
If you buy a TV at the Lebanon Walmart and pay cash, you’re going to pay less than if you rent-to-own it over 18 months. That’s just math. However, National TV offers a "13 weeks same as cash" deal. If you can pay it off in three months, you basically bypass the rental premium.
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It’s a tool. If your fridge dies on a Tuesday and you don't have $900 sitting in the bank, this is how you keep your food from spoiling without needing a credit card with a 25% APR. No credit checks are required here. They care more about your income and where you live than a number from Equifax.
The Local Impact in Laclede County
Being headquartered in Lebanon means this isn't just another corporate satellite. Scotty Chitwood, the Lebanon manager, and his team are dealing with neighbors. This is why you see features like free repairs for any item while you’re under lease. If that washer starts leaking, they come out and fix it.
What You Can Actually Get There
- Living Room Sets: Brands like Ashley and Washington Furniture.
- Kitchen Tech: GE, Frigidaire, and Galanz.
- Electronics: Acer laptops, Dell PCs, and obviously, a lot of TVs.
- The Random Stuff: Jewelry, handbags, and even seasonal items like gas grills for a 4th of July BBQ.
Common Misconceptions Explained
Some folks think you're locked into a "forever" contract. You aren't. Honestly, one of the biggest perks of the Lebanon store is the flexibility. If you lose your job or just decide you don't want that extra recliner anymore, you can return it. There are no penalties for pausing payments or returning the merchandise. You just stop paying and they come pick it up.
That's a massive difference compared to a traditional retail installment plan where a missed payment ruins your credit and a debt collector starts calling your mother-in-law.
The Service Side
Reviews for the Lebanon location often mention the "family-like" atmosphere. People like Maren Smith (who has been highlighted in regional reviews) are known for actually helping people navigate the paperwork. It’s not a high-pressure sales floor.
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However, it’s not perfect. Some customers have mentioned that prices can jump if you aren't paying attention to the terms, or that replacements for broken items can sometimes take a few days if the stock is low. It’s always smart to read the fine print on your specific agreement before signing.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit
If you’re headed to the store at 801 S. Jefferson, go in with a plan. Don't just browse and fall in love with a 75-inch OLED.
First, ask about the "same as cash" window. If you can swing the payments to own it in 90 days, you’re getting a great deal on high-end brands without the credit hurdle. Second, check their "Cool Stuff" section. They often have items you wouldn't expect in a furniture store, like gaming consoles or designer accessories.
Actionable Next Steps for Lebanon Locals:
- Verify Your Income: Bring a recent pay stub or proof of steady income; it's the primary thing they need for approval.
- Measure Your Space: Before looking at that sectional, measure your living room. Rent-to-own furniture is often "oversized" and returning a couch because it won't fit through the door is a headache nobody needs.
- Compare the Total Cost: Ask the staff for the "Total Cost of Ownership." They are legally required to give you this number. Compare that to the retail price so you know exactly what you’re paying for the convenience of weekly or monthly payments.
- Ask About Used Inventory: Sometimes they have "previously rented" items that are in great shape but come at a much steeper discount than the brand-new floor models.
National TV Sales & Rental has survived the rise of Amazon and big-box retailers because they provide a specific service: immediate access to the things that make a house feel like a home, regardless of your bank balance. In a town like Lebanon, where community ties still mean something, that local-first approach keeps the lights on.