After buying a new house and moving in, the next step is to turn it into a warm and welcoming home. You likely have some personal belongings to get you started but may need additional items to fit into the unique spaces in your new place. But what if you are on a limited budget? Not to worry. By getting a bit creative you can furnish your home beautifully without breaking the bank!

How to furnish your new home on a limited budget

So what exactly do we mean when we say “getting a bit creative?”

Basically, you don’t need to buy everything you need new and out of the box. Instead, you can save a significant amount of money by investing time into searching for used items and creating them yourself. Sure, it does take a bit more time and effort but it can mean big savings and a lot more character!

Where can you find used furnishings? Facebook Marketplace has become a helpful place to find good deals on used home furnishings as well as items made by hand from locals. You can also see what’s on Craigslist and the online classifieds. As for offline places, check out yard sales and thrift stores, and ask friends and family.

What about DIY projects?

DIY home furnishing ideas

Here are some DIY furnishing ideas to get your wheels turning.

1) Cute bench with shoe storage

This adorable bench can be painted to match your home and is designed to fit four crates, perfect for storing shoes.

2) Gorgeous chunky modern dining table

Want a gorgeous, modern wooden dining table? Find plans and instructions for this table that can be built for less than $120 in materials.

3) Leaning ladder wall unit/desk

Need a place for your computer, storage, and fun decor? This leaning ladder is a charming solution that takes care of all three!

4) Spice racks/kitchen shelves

This shows you how to make a cute shelving solution to help you display spices or other items in the kitchen.

5) Elegant wall decor

Do you have a large vertical area that needs some decor, like a mantel? Large pieces of art can cost hundreds of dollars. This is a stylish and elegant solution to fill the space and spread joy!

6) Frame box shelving

These frame box shelves are an adorable storage solution for an office, living room, or bedroom. A simple, affordable project and a great way to repurpose old picture frames.

7) DIY $50 full-length wall mirrors

These mirrors are a gorgeous addition to a dining or living area. Plus, they are a simple, affordable project for beginners.

8) Farmhouse coffee table

Bring beautiful natural wood into your living room with this minimalistic farmhouse coffee table you can make for less than $40 in materials (drill and saw required).

9) Unique a-frame bookshelf

This shabby chic bookshelf features natural wood and has plenty of space to store books or other decorative elements. Make it with just three tools for less than $50 in materials.

10) Simple contemporary bookshelf

This bookshelf has simple, clean lines and would be a perfect addition to a child’s bedroom or an office.

11) Stylish hairpin side tables

These simple, modern side tables bring an elegant feel to a room and are super simple to create.

12) Rustic glam headboard

Want a warm and welcoming headboard for your bedroom that leaves you feeling like royalty (without paying hundreds of dollars)? Check out this creative solution that features tufted fabric in a wooden frame.

13) Pallet patio day bed

Pallets never looked so good. This project transforms four wooden pallets and a mattress topper into a comfortable and inviting space to relax in your backyard.

14) Backyard copper cabana

Transport yourself to paradise without even leaving your property! This DIY copper cabana can be a great way to create a luxurious feel while shading an outdoor dining or lounging area.

Are you inspired yet? We hope so!

Turn your new house into a beautiful home (on a budget)

Buying a new house is the biggest and most rewarding investment most people make in their lifetimes but it does come with significant upfront costs. The good news is, once you’re in, furnishing can be done on a budget. By shopping smart and getting creative, you can have a fully-furnished home that’s uniquely you and doesn’t cost a fortune!

As always, the team at OVM is to help you with any questions you have about the home loan process. Have questions? Contact us today!