I would argue this is done more as a psychological status symbol. If goods such as furniture and appliances are so cheap that your "average joe" can buy the lat

I would argue this is done more as a psychological status symbol. If goods such as furniture and appliances are so cheap that your "average joe" can buy the latest appliance on a whim, the symbolism becomes diluted and your friends will be less inclined to make frequent purchases for these items. They will seek out new status symbols.