The Best Cheap Ways To Furnish Your Apartment
A Variety Of Options
Furnishing your apartment on a budget doesn't always have to mean sacrificing style and comfort. The rise of online marketplaces and the prevalence of discarded furniture on move-out days offer cost-effective alternatives. In this article, we'll explore multiple methods of furnishing your apartment affordably, utilizing platforms such as Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, street finds, eBay, and more.
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Craigslist: The Treasure Trove of Bargains
Craigslist proves to be a goldmine for affordable furniture and home décor. Engaging effectively with this platform involves regularly checking the "Free" section where people often give away furniture for free or at minimal cost. For example, if someone is moving and they need to get rid of a difficult to move item, it may be cheaper from their end to give it away rather than paying for the cost associated with disposing of it.
Additionally, negotiating the price of items on Craigslist is encouraged since many sellers are willing to lower their asking price. Using specific keywords in your search can help narrow down options and find precisely what you need. Try to use unique keywords, beyond ones like “coffee table” or “chair.” If you have a specific brand in mind, search the brand name and chances are that you’ll find what you’re looking for.
If you really want a certain piece of furniture, being able to pay for it in cash is really helpful. Sellers are more likely to agree to an offer or choose to sell to you if you’re paying in cash. Other tips for buying from Craigslist are to really examine the furniture before you make your purchase and to never go alone to purchase anything. A lot of the time, furniture is sold for cheap because it has some damage. You’ll want to make sure you assess how much damage it has beforehand. Additionally, bringing a family member or friend along when you go to make your purchase is always helpful. You’re going to a stranger’s house, after all.
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Facebook Marketplace: Connecting Locally for Great Deals
Facebook Marketplace is another excellent platform for finding budget-friendly furniture. Maximizing its potential involves joining local buy/sell/trade groups, where members often sell furniture at lower prices than commercial retailers. Utilizing the "Make Offer" feature can be advantageous when negotiating a better deal. Safety is paramount when using Facebook Marketplace, so always meet in public places and consider bringing a friend when picking up items.
When searching for furniture, try to search within a really small and really large (as far as you’re willing to drive) mile radius. You might have a better chance finding something you want that’s a little further away form you. You’ll also want to check out the seller’s profile and see what else they’re selling or have sold, to help you determine how reliable the seller is and what the quality of the items they sell is.
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Street Furniture: One Person's Trash is Another's Treasure
Take advantage of the opportunity to furnish your apartment for free by exploring street furniture on move-out days. However, exercising caution is crucial. Before bringing anything home, conduct a thorough inspection for bedbugs, stains, or damage. Timing is also essential, as move-out days for colleges or apartments often occur at the end of the month.
Sometimes, people will hold garage sales to sell their unwanted furniture. This is a great opportunity to find unique items for great deals. You’ll want to do your research ahead of a time and make sure you know how much the furniture you’re looking for should cost. People will often try to overcharge at garage sales, but most are willing to negotiate the price.
Other unwanted furniture might get donated to an antique or vintage shop. If you have any in your surrounding area, it might be worth it to check it out! These shops typically sell timeless, classic pieces that you can’t get anywhere else.
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eBay: The Online Marketplace for Budget Shoppers
eBay is an online marketplace that facilitates buying and selling of a wide range of products through auction-style bidding or fixed-price listings.
eBay offers a vast online marketplace where you can find affordable furniture. To make the most of this platform, set a budget to avoid overspending and prioritize sellers with positive ratings for reliable transactions. If bidding on an auction item, bid strategically to secure the best deal.
Pay close attention to the condition the items are in. Often, sellers will use photos of the item that they found on the original brand’s website, which doesn’t always show the true condition of the item. Make sure to read item descriptions as well, since a lot of sellers point out any damages to the furniture there.
Lastly, if possible, try to pay with an online payment system such as PayPal. This will allow for a secure transaction and give you the opportunity to file a dispute if you don’t receive your item. This tip can be used with any shopping platform.
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etsy
Etsy is the perfect site to buy handmade items while also supporting small businesses. Although some sellers can be pretty pricey, the site offers many affordable options such as 1950s-style TV tables for $30 and dressers for $100. Etsy has a lot of unique and vintage items that are sold on there as well, so you’ll find plenty of items that can spice up your space!
Another great thing about Etsy is that a lot of artists and craftsmen sell their items directly on the site. There’s a lot of cool artwork, wallpaper, vanities, and more, with designs made by artists. A lot of these shops also offer free shipping, which can really knock a lot off the total cost, since shipping larger items can be expensive.
Etsy is a great option for buying new or refurnished items for discounted prices instead of going to an expensive furniture store brand new items.
Etsy also has a buyer’s protection plan that is given to all customers, so if you don’t receive your order, you can file a dispute and get your money back. Since items are shipped to you, you can also avoid having to go to a stranger’s house to purchase.
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amazon
Lastly, Amazon offers a wide range of furniture and home decor to choose from, at low prices. Prime members can save money on shipping, and Amazon also has various coupons on different items where all shoppers can save.
If you’re buying on Amazon, make sure to thoroughly check the reviews before making your purchase. I like to look at the most recent reviews and check to make sure they’re from a verified buyer. Fraudulent companies will often try to mass-write their own positive reviews, so that’s why it’s always important to examine reviews beforehand.
Amazon also has a lot of storage items listed, which can come in handy if you’re looking to organize your space. In addition to this, the items are shipped to you, so you avoid driving out to pick anything up. On Prime days, buyers can save even more money if they have Prime memberships. There are over 100 deals consisting of large discounts, so if you have the membership, you’ll definitely want to check it out!
Conclusion
Furnishing your apartment affordably is achievable by exploring Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, street furniture on move-out days, eBay, Etsy, and Amazon. These platforms provide opportunities to find unique pieces and create a comfortable, personalized living space. As you embark on this budget-friendly journey, remember to be vigilant about inspecting items and practicing safe transactions. Transform your apartment without breaking the bank and enjoy a stylish and cozy living environment.
