Cost Efficient Ways to Furnish an Apartment
Moving into a new apartment is one of the most exciting moments in your life. But if this is your first apartment, chances are you’ve already spent most of your money on the security deposit and the rest on your student loan payments. If that’s the case, there might not be a lot of money left in your budget for furnishings and other essential items. Not to worry! Woodlake Properties highlights 10 tips on how to furnish an apartment for $1,000 or less, while still maintaining a cool, minimalist style.
10 Tips to Furnish an Apartment under $1,000
Hand me downs: Ask anyone & everyone if they have any kind of furnishings they no longer need or use. This is especially helpful for dining sets, kitchen essentials, small appliances, cutlery, dish towels, cleaning supplies and more. You’ll be surprised how fast your apartment will fill just from asking.
Buy used: Whatever you can’t get through hand me downs, buy used first. Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace and many other apps are especially helpful for finding odds & ends items you need.
Flea markets & garage sales: If you’d rather see the items in person, head out to a community garage sale or flea market. There are also hidden gem items that you can score for very little cost.
Skip the upgrades (for now): Stay off of Pinterest & Instagram, which are flooded with overly decorated (and costly) apartment decorating inspirations. While you’re in the process of getting settled, stick to just what you need, you can always upgrade later.
Throw a housewarming party: Any item you couldn’t obtain through the less expensive means above, throw a housewarming party to supplement. Chances are your guests will gift you the items you haven’t been able to buy yet.
Start small: Don’t get sucked in to buying 28 piece dishware sets that cost over $150. Start with 6 plates, 4 cups and a basic cutlery set.
Buy multipurpose pieces: This is especially helpful if your apartment is small. Replace the traditional TV stand for one with drawers for added storage space without the extra cost.
Decide what is most important (for now): Make a list of the most important things you literally cannot function in your apartment without. Afterwards, add some extras you’ve been hoping for so you can plan for the future.
Create a budget for each room: Budgeting is one of the most important life tools, especially now that you are out on your own. The ability to furnish the apartment will be much easier if you have a list of important items and a budget in hand.
Have fun: Finally, have fun! You only get to furnish your first apartment once. Even if you’re on a budget, just have fun and make the best out of it. You can look around feeling proud of yourself that you created a beautiful apartment on a conservative budget.
Clever Furnishing Tips for First Time Renters
Now that we’ve given you a good idea of how to start the process of furnishing your apartment on a budget it is time to gather your ideas and turn it into your own! Besides investing in furniture, make sure to also sign up for a renters insurance policy. Follow Woodlake Properties’ blog for helpful tips, tricks and insight into renting an apartment.