Trying to figure out how to furnish an apartment on a budget isn’t as hard as it sounds, especially if you like to be creative. Whether you are a student or just starting out on your own, being on a budget shouldn’t put limits on allowing you the necessities when it comes to furnishing your apartment.
Facebook Marketplace
Facebook Marketplace is a great way to find deals on furniture, décor, and other household items. You have to be careful, though. Never commit to a purchase until you have seen the item and had a chance to look it over. The Marketplace is a great way to look for deals on all types of furniture. With Facebook Marketplace, you may be able to find friends or neighbors who have some of the things you are looking for.
Craigslist
Craigslist is another online marketplace with an abundance of items. You can also find free items that are in excellent shape. Always make an appointment to look an item over before you agree to buy. Always take a friend with you! It’s a good idea to have someone along with you, not only for safety reasons but also for a second opinion. If it’s a larger item, you will also need help moving it.
Yard Sales
Yard sales or moving sales are one of the best places to pick up good quality furniture. You can look at the item and make sure everything is good working order. You can also talk to the owner and get a good idea about how the item was treated. Yard sale items are often extremely cheap. If the price is higher than you can afford, ask if they will accept a reasonable offer. If they really need to get rid of it, they will take a price cut. Yard sales are a great place to look for those “one of a kind” treasures.
Thrift Stores
Thrift stores often sell a wide variety of furniture items, and the Salvation Army on Gay St in West Chester is one the BEST thrift stores around. Most thrift stores carefully go over each item they sell and make sure they are sufficiently cleaned and work properly. You should still take a good hard look at each item. In some cases, you may be able to find items that can be repurposed into something else. An old hardwood head and footboard set can be turned into a bench, while a dresser can be turned into a bookcase. The opportunities are endless!
Don’t Forget to…Think Shop Buy Local!
Shop local businesses! They are the heart of your community, and the ThinkShopBuy…Local program from the Greater West Chester Chamber of Commerce is an amazing program that helps connects all the local retail businesses and beyond. West Chester retailers frequently run sales and offer student discounts. Please…consider visiting these businesses first before you choose to buy online (Cough…Amazon). Local businesses often have just what you need, and the money you save buying locally can be used for other necessities, like a 2AM slice of pizza;-)
Knowing how to furnish an apartment on a budget is easy if you think outside the box. Be unique and look for items off the beaten path. By searching online, thrift stores, and searching local yard sales, you will be able to find exactly what you are looking for at huge discount. You may even find a few surprises that will really set your apartment apart.
