One of the best parts about moving into your first apartment is transforming it from beige carpet and blank white walls into a space all your own. But starting from scratch can be overwhelming, and the cost can really add up. Don’t let your budget put a damper on the apartment décor of your dreams. Apartment decorating on a budget is easier than you may imagine. It just takes time, patience and a bit of creativity.
Go used. You don’t have to fill your apartments with hand-me-downs from your parents’ home. There are plenty of places you can check to score great secondhand décor. Not only will you save money by shopping at garage sales, thrift stores, consignment stores and flea markets, but you’ll also likely find some interesting pieces that you won’t see at your local chain retailer. I recently purchased a unique vintage barrel bar for $100 at my local antiques fair; I found two online selling for nearly $300 each.
There are some important things to keep in mind when purchasing used furniture and décor:
— Start by looking for a tag or label, and do a quick search on your phone to confirm you’re getting a deal. If the price isn’t far off from what you can find online, you may be able to negotiate a lower price. If not, pass.
— Make sure you’re getting a quality piece that is worth the money you’re spending. If you have to replace the piece in a couple of months, you won’t be saving in the long run. Inspect the materials (solid wood versus plastic) and the level of construction (dovetail joints are a sign of good quality).
— Make sure it works. This seems like a no-brainer, but it can be challenging if you’re at a flea market. I once purchased a 1940s-era clock, only to find out it doesn’t keep the time, and fixing it really increased the price.
Take advantage of online sales. Shopping online can be a great way to get deal on furniture and décor, especially on sites that offer free or low-cost shipping. Check out the sites of your favorite brick-and-mortar retailers like Target and Pier 1, as well as online-only retailers such as Amazon, Overstock, Etsy and Wayfair. Signing up for emails will get you instant access to the best sales.
Pro tip: Many sites will send you an additional discount if you add something to your cart and leave the site without purchasing — just make sure you’ve created an account so the retailer has your email address.
Purchase wall decals. Removable wall decals are a great substitute for paint or wallpaper and an inexpensive way to transform any room your apartment. In fact, you can find them for as little as $2 on Amazon. Wall decals go up in a matter of minutes and can be easily removed without damaging the wall, so you don’t have to worry about losing your security deposit.
Use what you already have. One no-cost way to decorate your apartment is to repurpose items you already own. Simply hang your statement necklaces on hooks to transform your jewelry into beautiful artwork. Books can also double as décor: Use a stack on an end table to prop up a lamp or display cookbooks in your kitchen.
Get creative. From do-it-yourself wall art to thrift store furniture makeovers, there are plenty of ways to save money on apartment décor by getting creative. Some of my favorite inexpensive homemade décor and upcycling ideas include:
— Thumbtack art: Pick up a small canvas and a pack of thumbtacks. Print something to use as a template or create a freeform design. Simply press the thumbtacks into the canvas for a one-of-a-kind piece of art.
— Wine corks: If you’re a wine drinker, save your corks. There are endless project ideas on Pinterest — such as coasters, trivets, corkboards and wreathes — but in the meantime, put your wine corks in a vase or glass bowl for a simple centerpiece.
— Bookshelf backsplash: Add removable wallpaper to the back of your bookcase to give it a pop of color. When you’re ready for a new look, you can easily swap out the design.
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Decorating Your First Apartment on a Budget originally appeared on usnews.com
