Congratulations! You finally have your own place! So what’s next? There are several things on the to-do list and one of them is: decorating your home in a way that is reflective of you. We fall in love with the perfect pieces that complete the aesthetic we want for our first home.  Then we step back and realize we have some financial limitations from our entry-level job or the fact that we just graduated college.

Whether you love to be frugal or you’re on a tight budget, there are several ways to buy the decor you desire without breaking the bank.

Let’s go browsing

We gravitate towards IKEA or other furniture stores to buy all our home furnishings. However, if you love discovering great finds, shopping at second-hand stores can also make items more affordable. TJ Maxx, Marshalls, and thrift stores provide home goods and furniture at reasonable prices! Aside from furniture, you can find nice antiques, artwork, and other household items that suit the needs of your home!

Set up sales alerts

If you’re dead-set on an item that is out of your price range—and if you can be patient—wait for it to go on sale! Sign up for sales alerts at any of your favorite stores to be notified when that adorable coffee table drops in price!  Easy to set up and use, especially for stores like Target, Amazon, and Macy’s!

Try out a dollar store hack

We’ve all seen DIY videos and methods on how to organize your space. Why not give it a whirl by finding products for organization at cheap prices! You can find containers to organize your fridge, cabinets, drawers, closets, and so much more. Is your desk getting a bit cluttered? You can buy file folder shelves to rearrange your workspace. This approach saves you some money, helps you declutter, and gives your new space a clean slate!

Reuse and repurpose

Sometimes refurbishing items or furniture can add a new spark to your home. For example, if you have an old or unused ladder—instead of throwing it out—start your own house project to repair and repaint your soon-to-be favorite piece of decor. You can use it to store towels, create a mini plant wall, or even as a new bookshelf. Repurposing old or unused items is both good for the environment and welcomes a unique aesthetic into your home!

Add some flair

The possibilities are endless when decorating your home. Consider special pieces that speak to your personality and the energy you want in the space. Adding some flair with lighting or lampshades, rugs, pillows, frames, mirrors, wall art, etc. can go a long way!

Below is a list of some places where you can find more inspiration for your new home!

  • Flea and Farmers Market: Here you can find creative and unique work from local artists at half price!
  • Yard and Garage Sales: Hidden treasures and great deals! You never know what you can find!
  • Estate Sales and Auctions: At these events, keep your budget top of mind. This option is great if you are searching for accent lighting, artwork, and unique furniture pieces.
  • Scratch and dent stores: If you are in need of appliances start here to find appliances within your means.
  • Habitat for Humanity – Restore Store: If you love Do-It-Yourself projects this is the place for you! Refurbishing items and finding a new style and purpose for them can make this type of shopping fun!

Your new place becomes a home through your personal touch, warmth, and personality! These resources—along with your budget—can help you get creative with your vision, have fun, and bring all those elements to your new space!