It can be enjoyable and fulfilling to furnish your first apartment. But it can also be a costly one. Keeping track of your spending while you provide can help you stay financially disciplined without sacrificing your design vision. Here are some tips to make the most of your budget. These items are essential to your everyday lifestyle and will define the overall look of your space.
Bed
The average cost to furnish a new apartment is between $3,000 and $5,500. It includes items like a sofa, TV and bed. Of course, the exact amount will vary based on your style and location. If you’re shopping on a budget, buy using an Ashley Furniture promo code. It can save you a lot of money, but be sure to check the condition of each item. Choosing a bed frame that evenly distributes weight and supports the mattress is also important. A basic metal frame starts at about $80. More decorative options (like sleigh or platform beds) will cost more.
Most apartments have a desk and chair, but you might need an additional office table or dining table to accommodate family meals or entertaining guests. Also, add a bookshelf or other decorative elements for personal flair. These pieces of furniture are usually inexpensive, but they can make your apartment feel more like home.
Sofa
Furnishing your first apartment can be a big expense, especially if you’re buying all new furniture. It’s important to remember that you may incur extra costs, like movers, delivery fees, and even assembly or cleaning services. Aim for high-quality pieces that are both stylish and durable. You can find many options at affordable price points. For example, you can shop for quality sofas at online retailers or local furniture stores. If you’re a thrifter or savvy shopper, you can also find great deals on secondhand pieces at local markets and garage sales.
You may decorate your home on a budget using a spreadsheet to keep track of your spending. As you track your spending, you’ll be able to identify trends that can help you save money in the future. For instance, certain furniture items are cheaper at a particular store or buying a larger item can reduce the cost per square foot. You can then use this knowledge to make smarter purchases in the future.
Dresser
Furnishing your apartment is a fun and exciting adventure. However, it can also be expensive. It’s important to track your expenses to stay on budget, but that doesn’t mean sacrificing style or quality. You’ll need to buy the basics such as a bed, sofa, and a dresser. Then, you’ll want to add things that will make your apartment feel like home, such as an armchair and coffee table, a sturdy dining set for entertaining, and decor to tie everything together. One approach to cut money is to shop at garage sales and secondhand shops. Many people don’t need or want their furniture any more and are willing to give it away for a low price. You can also ask friends and family if they’re selling or giving away any of their furniture. These strategies will help you snag some great pieces for your apartment at a fraction of the cost. The key is being patient and searching until you find what you want. This way, you can create the perfect apartment of your dreams without breaking the bank!
Bookshelves
A good quality bookshelf provides the storage you need to organize your books, knick-knacks and other belongings. While bookshelves are typically considered living room furniture, you might use them in bedrooms and other rooms where additional storage is needed. Shelves can also line hallways or awkward nooks in your home. A standard bookcase costs between $50 and $250, while built-in shelves cost up to $1,200 per linear foot. The material the built-in shelves are made from, their size and add-ons like a rolling library ladder or crown molding affect the project’s total cost.
If you’re looking for cheap bookshelves, consider purchasing premade units at local home improvement stores or finding a bargain at your local thrift store. Thrift stores offer a constantly changing selection of inexpensive furniture pieces, and you can save money by buying items you might otherwise have to pay the full retail price. Alternatively, you can look for secondhand or vintage pieces previously owned by other homeowners or renters at garage and yard sales.
Lighting
Furnishing an apartment takes time and money and can feel expensive if you don’t budget properly. However, learning to prioritize your needs and snag sales and discounts is the key to providing an apartment on a budget. Start by making a list of non-negotiable items. It includes a bed, sofa and dining table. Depending on storage needs, you’ll also need a dresser, nightstand, or bookshelf. …
