While moving can be exciting, oftentimes it is difficult and stressful too. You want to make your new place feel like home, but you also don’t want to spend more than you need to. Whether you’re moving out for the first time headed towards your new dormitory room or are a couple moving in together for the first, you probably have a long list of other expenses that need to be taken care of. If you’re furnishing a new place on a budget, follow these helpful tips:
1. Make a list of absolute essentials.
Determine what you absolutely must buy, and get it down in writing. When shopping around for new items, stick as closely to this list as possible. If you find that you just can’t walk away from the 79 cent flower vase at Ikea, go ahead and grab it, but a list of essentials will help you at least think twice before making each purchase.
2. Go thrifting.
Quality, brand new furniture comes at a steep price, but your local thrift store could be carrying sturdy pieces you love for a fraction of the cost. If you’re new to thrifting, know that it takes some work. Your local thrift store probably isn’t going to be a one stop shop for all of your essentials, but multiple visits to a few different stores could lead to some incredible finds.
3. Find freebies online.
You’d be surprised at how often people are looking to get rid of their furniture. Do some research on Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace to see if you can get any of your essentials free of charge.
4. Live minimally.
When you live minimally, you create room for what’s most important in your life. Living minimally also declutters your living space and helps you avoid making purchases that don’t serve a long-term purpose.
