When you’ve just bought a home, closed on a home, or rent your home, furnishing it can be a daunting and expensive task. From furniture and appliances to decorations and accessories, it’s easy to blow your budget in the process, especially after the costs of buying a house.

But there are a few tips and tricks you can use to save money and still get the look you want. Here are 10 cost-saving tips for furnishing a home on a budget.

1. Measure Everything

Before you start shopping for furniture, make sure to measure the space you have available. Understanding how to calculate the square footage in a house is essential. If possible, measure before you move into your new space. This will help you know what size of furniture to buy and will also help you avoid buying something too big or too small.

Make sure to measure doorframes, hallways, staircases, and any other areas you plan on bringing the furniture through. Taking these measurements will ensure that you don’t end up with furniture that won’t fit in your space.

2. Shop Second Hand

Shopping second-hand is a great way to save money when furnishing a home on a budget. Look for furniture at thrift stores, estate sales, and online consignment stores.

You can even find great deals on furniture that has been gently used. Be sure to inspect the furniture before you buy it, and make sure to clean it properly. If you’re buying furniture online, ask the seller for photos and more detailed information before you make a purchase.

Shopping secondhand can be especially useful when you have finished your basement and have a significant need for furniture.

3. Buy in Pieces

Instead of buying sets, buy pieces of furniture separately. This will save you money, and you’ll be able to customize your furniture to fit your tastes and space. Don’t be afraid to mix and match styles and colors.

You can find pieces that coordinate with each other but don’t necessarily match perfectly. This type of eclectic look will give your home a unique and personalized feel.

4. Shop Online

Shopping online for furniture can be a great way to find deals. Online stores often have sales and discounts, and you can compare prices quickly and easily.

Make sure to read reviews and check the return policy before you make a purchase. Many online stores also offer free shipping, so be sure to look for these deals when shopping.

5. Buy Used Appliances

If you’re in the market for appliances, look for used appliances. You can find stores that specialize in used appliances and you can also find great deals on sites like Craigslist. Inspect the appliances before you buy them, and ensure they are in good working order.

If you’re buying appliances online, ask the seller for photos and more detailed information before you make a purchase.

6. Buy Multi-Purpose Furniture

When furnishing a home on a budget, consider buying multi-purpose furniture. Look for pieces that can serve multiple functions, like a couch that doubles as a bed or a table that can be used as a desk.

These pieces can be great space-savers that allow you to get rid of bulky items and can also save you money.

7. Shop Out of Season

Buying furniture and decorations out of season is a great way to save money. Look for sales on summer furniture in the winter and winter furniture in the summer.

You can also check clearance sections in stores for items that are marked down. Don’t be afraid to shop at stores that specialize in outdoor furniture; these stores also have great deals on indoor furniture.

8. Get Creative with Decor

Regarding decorations, look for ways to get creative and make your own. You can do plenty of great DIY projects to spruce up your home without spending a lot of money.

From painting and wallpapering to crafting and upcycling, there are plenty of ways to make your home look great on a budget.

9. Buy in Bulk

If you’re looking to buy a lot of items for your home, look for stores that offer bulk discounts. Buying in bulk can save you a lot of money, and it’s a great way to stock up on essentials like towels and bedding. Bulk discounts can also be found on items like paint and cleaning supplies, so be sure to look for these deals when shopping.

10. Utilize Airbnb

If you’re looking to buy used furniture, consider using Airbnb to find used furniture from other people’s homes. You can often find furniture in excellent condition at a fraction of the cost.

Airbnb also offers a way to rent furniture for short-term use, which can be great if you’re looking to buy furniture for a specific event or time period. Be sure to inspect the furniture before you buy it, and make sure to clean it properly.

Furnishing a home on a budget doesn’t have to be daunting. From shopping second-hand and buying in pieces to shopping online and utilizing Airbnb, there are plenty of ways to get the look you want without breaking the bank.

With these 10 cost-saving tips, you can furnish your home on a budget and create the home of your dreams.