Furnishing an apartment on a budget can be hard—with a one bedroom apartment costing upwards of $8,000 to furnish—but there are ways to do it. All it takes is a little guidance, creativity and research.
Whether you’re just beginning to furnish your space or refreshing an existing one, this guide will help you get quality pieces at prices that work with any budget—read on to learn how easy it can be to create the perfect look for less.
Reach out to friends and family
Asking your friends and family if they have any furniture or home decor they no longer need or want can be a great resource and help you save some money. This approach can also offer a chance to add meaningful items to your home as you may receive pieces with sentimental value or unique character that you wouldn’t find in a store. Additionally, your network can spread the word to their contacts, greatly increasing the likelihood of you finding the perfect pieces. So don’t hesitate to ask around as you may be surprised at the generosity of those around you.
Check out local thrift stores and garage sales
Looking for furniture and home decor items that perfectly matches your taste can be a daunting task, especially when on a budget. However, did you know that you can find some real gems at local thrift stores or garage sales? From vintage lamps to antique dressers, you never know what treasures you might stumble upon.
While the prices will vary from store to store and sale to sale, there’s no denying the incredible bargains you can find. As you frequent different stores, you will learn the importance of patience in order to spot the perfect pieces at reasonable prices. And who knows, this could eventually turn into an exciting hobby. So go ahead and explore the hidden gems that thrift stores have to offer. Below are two examples of Toronto thrift stores.
Browse online selling platforms for local listings
When it comes to finding furniture and home decor, online selling platforms can be a treasure trove of hidden gems. Platforms like Kijiji and Facebook Marketplace offer an extensive selection of local listings, meaning you’ll have access to items people in your own city are selling that you wouldn’t find in a brick and mortar store. It is convenient to browse through listings on your phone or computer, making the process of finding pieces quick and efficient. The best part is stumbling upon brand new items someone has listed for a great price. However, don’t be fooled into buying the first thing you see. Take your time to compare prices, and don’t be afraid to exercise your negotiation skills. You might just end up finding the perfect piece for your home at a fraction of the cost.
DIY projects
There’s something special about finding a unique piece of second-hand furniture to add character to your space. But let’s be real, sometimes those pieces need a little love and care. That’s where a DIY project comes in! Not only can you grab a great piece at a bargain, but you can also transform it into something that fits your taste. Whether it’s just a quick touch-up or a complete overhaul with a fresh coat of paint, revamping second-hand furniture can be a fun and fulfilling project. It’s amazing how a little bit of elbow grease and creativity can completely transform a once dull piece into a show-stopper.
Take advantage of sales in store
When it comes to furnishing your apartment on a budget, second hand items can be a great way to save money. However, there are certain items that you may want to consider buying new.
Things like linens, towels, and other small everyday items tend to go on sale regularly, and if you keep an eye out for promotions and discounts, you can snag some really great deals. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also have the peace of mind that comes with knowing these items have never been used before. So, the next time you’re in the market for some new linens or other home essentials, be sure to check out the sales and promotions happening at your local stores.
Donating unwanted items
When you’re revamping a living space, it can be incredibly satisfying to bring in new pieces that reflect your personal style. And what better way to make room for the new than by donating the old? Not only will you be decluttering your space and making room for fresh finds, but you’ll also feel good about giving your excess goods a second life.
