Looking for apartments for rent may be exciting, but it also comes with a list of expenses that you need to account for that you may not have had to deal with before. You need to choose the right location, figure out your budget, go through tenant credit check, sign the lease, and personalize your space. No matter where you decide to live, it’s important that the property meets all of your needs before you move in.
Don’t worry! With a little creativity and some elbow grease, you can make your apartment look amazing without going over your budget.
Here are a few tips to get you started:
Set a Budget and Stick to It
Before you start shopping for furniture and decorations, sit down and figure out how much money you can realistically spend on this project. Once you have your number, don’t budge. It can be easy to get caught up in the moment and impulse buy items that you may not need or even like in a few months. Make sure to keep track of your spending by keeping all of your receipts and taking pictures of items that you plan to purchase online.
Repurpose What You Have
Before you go out and buy all new furniture and decorations, take a look around your home and see what you already have that you could use in your new place. Maybe that end table from your childhood bedroom would look great in your living room, or that set of dishes you never use would be perfect for your kitchen. Just because something doesn’t have the “apartment” label doesn’t mean it can’t work in your new space.
Get Creative With Your Space
One of the benefits of decorating your first apartment is that there are no rules. This is your chance to get creative and really make the space your own. If you’re feeling stuck, start by looking through magazines or searching online for inspiration. Once you have an idea of the style you’re going for, start making a list of must-have items, as well as those that would be nice to have but aren’t necessarily essential. This will help you focus your shopping and stay within budget.
DIY Where Possible
Another great way to save money when decorating your apartment is to DIY where possible. If you are handy, you can paint your own walls, build your own furniture, or sew your own curtains. By doing things yourself, you can save a lot of money that would otherwise be spent on hiring someone to do it for you.
Accessorize Wisely
Accessories are important when it comes to giving any space personality, but they can also be expensive if you’re not careful. When decorating on a budget, stick to basics, like throw pillows, blankets, candles, wall art, and vases—and then get creative with how you use them! For example, try using vintage baskets as planters or doubling up on functions by using decorative trays as catch-alls for keys and mail. There are endless possibilities when it comes to accessorizing on a budget. Just use your imagination.
Shop at Thrift Stores and Garage Sales
If you’re looking for unique pieces or antiques, thrift stores and garage sales are great places to find them without breaking the bank. You may have to put in a little extra work to find exactly what you’re looking for, but it will be worth it in the end. Plus, it’s always satisfying to find that perfect piece at a fraction of the price it would cost new.
Choose Versatile Pieces
When shopping for furniture and other decor items, try to choose versatile pieces that can be used in multiple ways. For example, instead of buying a traditional coffee table, opt for an ottoman that can also be used as extra seating when guests come over.
Stick to Neutral Colors
One simple way to make your apartment look more expensive than it is is to stick to neutral colors when decorating. Neutral colors like white, black, and gray can make any space look more sophisticated and elegant.
Add Some Greenery
Adding some greenery to your apartment is an easy and inexpensive way to spruce up any space. Plants not only add color and life to a room, but they also help to purify the air and improve indoor air quality.
Invest in Good Lighting
Good lighting can make all the difference in how your apartment looks and feels, so it is worth investing in some quality light fixtures or lamps.
Decorating your first apartment on a budget doesn’t have to be difficult if you plan ahead and get creative. With these tips, you can turn your apartment into a stylish and welcoming space without going over budget.