Before you settle into your new life, there is a long list of things you need to take care of. First comes relocating, then comes decorating. Apart from being expensive, moving is often emotionally and physically exhausting, right? Well, that’s not always the case. There are some things you can do to simplify the moving process and spare a few bucks along the way. For example, create a budget plan and stick to it, hire reliable and affordable movers, choose the right time of the year, month, and day, etc. You would be surprised by how much you can accomplish with a limited budget. Decorating your new home on a tight budget can be less complicated than you think.
Decorating your new home is fun
Decorating or redecorating is the most exciting part of moving into your new place. It’s a fun process which allows your natural creativity to shine. Of course, not all of us are creative and artistic. In case you’re not a born interior designer, you can ask someone you trust for help – many people would be delighted, as long as you don’t ask them to move your furniture. However, make sure you’re in control – after all, you are the one who is going to live in that space. Also, make sure that all family members have a say, especially when it comes to the rooms everyone uses and their bedrooms.
Planning ahead is essential
One of the most important tips is to always plan ahead to avoid wasting time and money:
- Ask your landlord how much you’re allowed to change
- Establish your decorating budget
- Establish priorities when decorating on a tight budget
- Make sketches
- Measure everything before moving massive pieces
- Try out the paint on a small hidden surface first
- If you’re not sure, consult or hire a professional
If you are renting an apartment, you are not given unlimited freedom to change whatever you want. Normally, the landlord would not mind if you brought your own pillows or photo frames, but changing the wall color or throwing away his/her furniture could get you into trouble.
Decorating your new home on a tight budget is all about prioritizing and compromising. You don’t have money to burn – make a list of priorities. For example, you would like a fur rug but you cannot afford it. Find a less expensive faux fur rug that looks the same. Besides, you are not hurting animals. Here’s another example – a dining room chair is a priority, but a lazy bag and a rocking chair aren’t. And another one – the living room is more important than the other rooms if that’s where you spend most of your time and entertain guests.
While sketching, remember that things might look better on paper or in your head than in reality, so don’t be shocked in case the end result is a little underwhelming. In addition, make sure all colors, patterns and items in your new room go well together – think of the room as a whole. No matter how much you love a certain piece, it should not clash with the rest.
Decorating your new home on a tight budget is realistic
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, so choose whatever works for you and your family. Do not follow trends you don’t like. Also, do not think something is tacky just because it is cheap. You can find great pieces of art and furniture at low prices if you know where to look. For instance, many well-known brands offer discounts on a regular basis. Visit outlets, flea markets, antique and second-hand shops, even yard sales in your town. You will definitely find something you can use. Furthermore, you will be able to decorate your new home with minor expenses by rearranging, renewing, or making it yourself.
Rearrange
If you are moving in with your old furniture, this is a great opportunity to redecorate. The fact that the furniture is old doesn’t mean your new home must look just like the old one. On the contrary, change is more than welcome, and it costs nothing. Just look around and use your imagination. The answer could be right in front of you, so try to find it. Rethink what you have in your home and reorganize. Something as simple as moving things around can make a huge difference.
Renew
Moving is a good opportunity to get rid of the things you no longer like or use. Almost everything can be donated or recycled – no throwing away. However, think twice before you say goodbye to your stuff. You can give them a new life with a little “makeup”. For example, try dressing your old sofa in a new pattern instead of buying a new sofa. Paint your old tables and chairs in order to refresh them – and why not try a different color.
Make it yourself
There are lots of things you can make yourself with limited resources.
- Paintings
- Murals
- Figurines, pencil holders, photo frames, etc.
- Furniture
- Blankets and pillows
Do you enjoy making any of these things? If the answer is yes, give it a try. If you have ever taken pottery or decoupage lessons, now is the time to put your skills to good use. In case you’re not into arts and crafts, perhaps you know someone who is.
A limited budget means more pressure, but don’t be discouraged. Decorating your new home on a tight budget is possible with careful planning and a little imagination. With these tips and tricks, your home could look posh without costing an arm and a leg. Once the work is done, all you need to do is clean up and start enjoying your new living space.