Decorating Your First Place on a Dime

Everyone looks forward to moving into their first post college apartment. Finding the perfect place is only half of the process. The other task is decorating your first home or apartment on an entry-level salary. Here are a few tips on how to make your first place look like a luxury apartment on a shoestring budget:

1. Invest in Good Furniture

Skip the trip to Ikea and invest in good quality furniture. If you can’t afford to shell out $400 to $800 on a good sofa, wait for that item you want to go on sale. Spring is the best time to shop for furniture because retailers are trying to get rid of their collections before the new ones debut during the summer.

2. You Don’t Have to Get Everything at Once

Rushing to decorate your entire place within the first few weeks of moving can cause plenty of unwanted stress. Wait a few weeks to get settled and take time to think about key pieces you need and want. You may find that if you rush to decorate, you may not love your paint or furniture choices a year later – and may want to change.

3. Break for Yard Sales

Spring and fall are popular seasons for estate and yard sales. Starting midweek, look for signs in your neighborhood that advertise yard sales. You will be surprised by the great deals that you can find at yard sales. Remember: someone’s trash is someone else’s treasure!

4. Host a DIY House Warming Party

Invite your best friends over for a housewarming with a twist! Ask your guests to help with DIY projects that you need done around the house. Your friends can help with small projects like creating your own curtains or painting canvases. Provide each person with all of the supplies needed. To show your gratitude, make sure to serve plenty of drinks and snacks too!

5. Add Lighting

It’s amazing how much lighting can really bring a room to life! You can purchase inexpensive, great-looking lamps at retailers like Target, T.J.Maxx, Marshalls, and World Market for as little as $18.

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