Getting a new apartment is pricey enough due to rent, and utility bills amongst other things. After paying for all these, furnishing the said apartment often comes with a budget cut. Most of us would love to save money on furniture, decor, etc. If you are budget-conscious, you can still live in a comfortable and well-decorated apartment. When we furnish an apartment on a budget, there are things to learn and put into consideration so as not to go over the planned budget.
It will also help you get comfortable and decent furniture at no expense to your account balance. One thing to keep in mind is to make it realistic and ensure it fits your needs. Ways to furnish an apartment on a budget include:
- Create a furniture shopping list and include the basic items.
- Consider getting your furniture in thrift stores.
- Patronize online marketplaces and big-box stores such as IKEA, Target, etc.
- Rent your furniture instead of buying.
- Always be on the lookout for special deals and freebies
Lets Discuss In Brief The Things To Furnish An Apartment
Have a Shopping List
- Go for the basic piece of furniture that you might need and factor in the cost of delivery.
- For a new apartment, here are the basic furniture needed:
- Mattress: It does not have to be king-sized, because the smaller it is, the cheaper it will be.
- A sofa or an accent chair: Basically, an accent chair is preferable to a sofa when you are on a budget. It is comfortable and affordable compared to a sofa. If you want to go for a sofa, a used one might be a better option because brand new sofas are expensive.
- Kitchenware: As long as you will be cooking in that apartment, kitchenware is essential to have. Eating at home saves you money so it is advisable to invest in kitchen wares such as pots, pans, plates, and cutleries.
- Bed Frame: Although placing your mattress on the floor might seem like a good way to save money, it consumes space. Having a bed frame can serve as storage by keeping items under the bed. If it comes with drawers, valuables can be kept inside.
- Bedroom Curtains: This is necessary for privacy. You can go for the cheap ones and pick out nice patterns. Since you are on a budget, get decorative curtains to add to the decor.
- Additional items to get if there is enough money left over are a dresser, coffee table, shower curtain, kitchen/dining table, nightstand, etc.
Get Furniture From Thrift Stores On A Budget
- High-end quality furniture is pricey and may not fit into your budget at the moment.
- Going to shop at thrift stores for used furniture is a great way to save money.
- You can get a second-hand store near you to have a physical evaluation of what you want to get.
- There is also the option of online thrift stores such as Craigslist, LetGo app, OfferUp mobile app, Facebook Marketplace, Nextdoor, etc. Craigslist is one of the largest online platforms for buyers and sellers. Used furniture sold on their website includes coffee tables, sofas, chairs, etc.
- Before making any purchase at an online thrift store, be thorough in your search and avoid scammers.
- Attend garage and yard sales in your neighborhood. You find items in pretty great conditions at yard sales.
- There are charity organizations that also receive furniture donations good enough to sell. They might happen to have the furniture piece that you want to buy.
Buy Furniture from High-end Discount Furniture Stores and Online Marketplaces For An Apartment On A Budget
- There are affordable furniture stores you can patronize if you do not want to purchase thrift items.
- Stores like Pottery Barn have furniture outlets where you buy items such as bed frames, kitchen sets, dining sets, etc., at huge discounts.
- Online stores with affordable furniture include Wayfair, eBay, AllModern, Overstock, etc.
- Target, Ross, and IKEA are stores that offer great discounts for furniture and home decor items like drapery, kitchenware, linens, etc.
Rent Furniture
- If you plan on staying in your new apartment for a short period, you might consider renting your furniture instead of buying one.
- Large rental furniture companies like Feather, Brook, Cort, etc., offer rental packages for students, military families, etc.
Freebies and Special Deals
- Special deals on furniture items are often found on Facebook Marketplace, Let Go, Craigslist, OfferUp, etc.
- Sellers are willing to give out their used furniture for free as long as you pay for delivery yourself.
Conclusion
These are great ways to maximize your budget, no matter how small it may be. You can also multitask your furniture by using them for more than one purpose. This way we will be able to furnish an apartment on a budget.
FAQs
- Is yard sales worth it for furniture?
Yes. You save money and still get a chance to grade the item you are buying firsthand.
- Can I get good furniture at flea markets?
Yes. At a flea market, sellers care about the appearance of their items so the item you purchase will be in good condition.
