Furnishing a home on a budget can be a real challenge but finding entry-level furniture doesn’t have to break the bank. Whether you’re looking to outfit your den, bedroom, living room, or even your kitchen, the best way to access great furniture on a budget is to know where to look.
The most obvious place to start is online outlets that specialize in budget furniture. For your bedroom, you can usually get a complete suite, including a bed, two bookshelves and two nightstands, for less than $1000. Bed frames alone can range from metal to sturdy wood frames that will last for years. Online outlets also often have special sales, especially when it comes to dining sets, where you can find a complete set, including six chairs and a table, for a fraction of what you would pay in a traditional outlet.
If you prefer to support your local economy, support second-hand stores. Some second-hand stores carry up-and-coming brand names so you can get quality furniture for a low cost. Plus, buying from a second-hand store eliminates the need to assemble the furniture yourself. Flea markets, swap meets, and auctions are also great sources for finding stylish furniture at a great price.
Some furniture rental companies can also be a great choice. Many rental companies offer simple yet stylish furniture packages that can be rented on a month-by-month basis. If you don’t want to commit to long-term shopping, renting entry-level furniture is the way to go. Some even offer free delivery and installation which helps with budgeting.
Don’t forget about hand-me-downs and family heirlooms. You may have family members who have quality furniture that they are willing to give away for free or for a fraction of the cost. Hand-me-downs are a great way to instantly add sophistication to your living space and still stay on budget.
These are just a few ideas on where to find entry-level furniture without breaking the bank. Other possibilities include church rummage sales, garage sales, outlet stores and antique stores. With a little creativity and some research, you can find beautiful, affordable furniture that won’t break the bank.
Another option is to renovate or refinish second-hand furniture yourself. Not only does it make financial sense, but it can also be a great way to express your own personal style. You don’t have to be a master craftsman to refinish furniture; simply some specialized tools and a little patience and you can have a one-of-a-kind piece in no time. To further cut expenses, look for furniture materials like wood, fabric, and metal that can be recycled and repurposed for use in your projects.
You could also tap into the world of furniture consignment. You’ll be able to find great pieces second-hand through consignment at relatively low cost. Plus, since furniture is thoroughly checked for condition before being accepted for sale, finding top-notch pieces in excellent condition is easy.
Finally, trade for items. You can meet local people that have furniture they no longer need and are willing to trade for something that you don’t need anymore. You can also look in trade magazines and websites to find deals and arrange trades.
Decorating on a budget is possible and no longer limited to buying cheap furniture that won’t last. With a little research and creativity, you can find stylish, quality entry-level furniture to suit any budget. Now that you know where to look, upgrade your living space with the perfect furniture and create a home you’ll love.