BARGAINS : NO PLACE LIKE HOME ACCENTS.

Byline: Trisha King & Deborah Newmark

Unless you're shopping in pricey specialty boutiques, you're likely to see the same items in store after store because most retailers must appeal to the masses. Anyone in search of unique decorator and gift items will find Home Accents Factory Outlet to be a great resource, with discounted prices.

One of the first things we noticed at Home Accents: decorator plates in a variety of patterns, from black and white to brilliantly colored. Plates that run $75 to $100 at a high-end department store are about $32 here.

With its eclectic selection and tasteful displays, Home Accents certainly doesn't have the appearance of a factory Outlet. Everything is tagged with the manufacturer's suggested retail price, and customers pay half of that. Depending on where you usually shop, you may see the same items around town for more or less than the manufacturer's suggested retail price.

For example, let's say you're used to paying $6 at a large discount chain for Vance Kitura candles. At first glance, you may think that Home Accents is more expensive because the tag reads $8, but the price you actually pay is $4.

With shipments arriving five days a week, Home Accents keeps the inventory moving. Some goods, such as houseplants and candles, are regularly ordered items. Others may be a one-time shipment only, so, if you're hesitant about making a purchase, ask about availability.

In addition to buying from U.S. and international manufacturers (first quality only), Home Accents also buys merchandise from local artisans items such as small, handmade lampshades with pressed dried flowers for $29.50 ($60 and up elsewhere).

Other items on the day of our visit included a large variety of candlesticks and holders, vases, picture frames, pillows, umbrellas, silk flowers, herbal soaps and much more.

Later this year, Home Accents Factory Outlet will open stores in Pasadena and Santa Monica.

Home Accents Factory Outlet is at 19347 Ventura Blvd., Tarzana; [phone]. Hours are 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday. American Express, Mastercard and Visa are accepted. Returns accepted within seven days accompanied by receipt; free gift wrapping with purchase of $25 or more.