Furnishing your new home without going overboard
Whether you’ve just moved out, just moved in with your partner, or just moved to a larger home, kitting out your pad can seem like a daunting task, especially if you haven’t brought much with you to begin with.
While it’s tempting to head straight to IKEA with 20-page-long shopping list, this may get expensive very quickly. If you’re looking to save some money furnishing your new place, here are some hints and tips to get you started.
• White goods – Whitegoods can be another large expense for your new home. While it may be tempting to go for the cheapest model if you’re on a budget, keep in mind that more energy efficient models may be a little more expensive straight away, but will save you money on your energy and water bills in the long run, as well as reduce your ecological footprint. If you’re bringing your own old white goods, or getting them second hand, remember that white goods which are older than a few years will not be as energy efficient or cost effective than newer white goods. There’s also the option to rent appliances, with the option of upgrading or offering to purchase them out right when you’re ready.
• Electronics – Getting all the electronics you need can be the most expensive part of fitting out your new home, especially if you’re a bit of a technophile. Just be sure not to blow your budget on things like big TVs, huge speakers or automatic vacuum cleaner robots (no matter how cute the Roomba is). For things you can’t wait for, computer rental or renting other electronic equipment is a great option.
• Furniture – Unlike electronics or white goods, furniture can be one of the easiest things to buy second hand, as a couch won’t date as quickly as a certain computer model. If you decided to source your furniture second hand, there are plenty of ways to do it. Charity shops often have a huge range of couches, tables and desks, many of which may just need a little polish or a good clean. Don’t disregard something completely because it’s got a few scratches or it’s a little musty smelling. Investing a little time and effort in a second hand piece will still save you more money than buying everything brand new.
Are your appliances out of date? A good start is to rent appliances to help save cost. Please find out more and visit www.flexirent.com.au