Furnishing your first apartment is an exciting step, but it can be hard to know where to start. It’s easy to get caught up in the details, but don’t worry — we’ve got simple, budget-friendly tips to help you get started.
Start with the essentials
You don’t have to get everything at once! Many people furnish their space piece by piece. The best place to start is with a short list of must-haves. Think about the furniture you’ll use every day.
- A bed: You’ll need a mattress, a frame, pillows, and bedding.
- A place to sit: Think a sofa, a loveseat, a recliner, or a futon.
- A table and chairs: A functional and comfortable spot for eating or working.
- Storage: A dresser or chest helps keep your apartment tidy. To save space and money, consider furniture that doubles as storage.
Sticking to your budget
Where and how you choose to shop for your essentials makes a big difference. Here are a few things to consider when furnishing on a budget.
- Focus on function first, then add entertainment and décor as you go.
- Shop secondhand, check out local thrift stores, and see if friends or family have any old furniture they might be willing to pass along.
- Choose your priorities. For example, you might want to invest in a quality mattress, but go for a more affordable dining table or entertainment center.
- Start with a bedroom set or living room set to cover multiple needs at once.
- Rent to own your furniture so you can split total costs into affordable, flexible payments.
Next steps
Now that you’ve got the basics, it’s time to make your apartment feel like home! Make these additions over time to elevate your space while keeping your budget in check.
- Lighting: Even if your apartment features natural or overhead lighting, a well-placed lamp can bring up the ambiance in any room.
- A nightstand: You’ll need somewhere to keep your phone, water, and that spiffy new lamp!
- Kitchen appliances: Most apartments come furnished with the essential appliances, but you may want to upgrade with a microwave, coffee maker, or an air fryer.
- Décor: Additions like curtains, mirrors, wall art, and area rugs provide an opportunity to show off your individual style.
- Entertainment: A TV, TV stand, and gaming system can be just the thing to help you unwind after a long day.
A well-furnished space doesn’t have to break the bank. With the right plan and a few smart choices, you can create a place that feels like home from day one. Aaron’s offers flexible rent to own payment plans to help you get the furniture, electronics, and appliances you need while sticking to your budget.
Looking for more inspiration? Check out our blog and shopping guides to get started designing the home of your dreams!
