Furniture can be difficult to buy, and expensive too. You have to think about whether it fits the aesthetic that you want, whether it functions the way you want it to, whether it fits in the space that you want it to, whether it can be transported to where you want it be- the list goes on. One of the most important things you have to think about is the cost. Furniture can have a hefty price tag- and mostly you do get what you pay for so buying something cheap is unlikely to last as long as you might want it to.
The questions double when you need to kit yourself out completely, like a landlord or a new renter might. So what are your options?
Think About What You Really Need
Living minimally isn't that difficult, especially when living alone. There are many things that you could feasibly get rid of or if you're just starting out, you could save money and refrain from buying them in the first place. Less furniture also means more space.
The Dresser- Instead of having a big bulky dresser, using fabric shelves that hang from a rail in your wardrobe. It probably means cutting down the amount of clothes that you do have, but it will save you a lot of space on the floor.
Coffee Tables- They are clutter magnets, along with end tables. Whatever you're 'keeping' on there, could probably live somewhere else.
The TV Stand- Why haven't you got yours on the wall yet?
Bookshelf- E-books are your friend!
Think about slimming down your belongings and you can slim down your furniture (and your bill) too.
Trawl the Internet
There are so many sites out there offering furniture at a reduced price, and some are even free. If you're going to the free sites, then you should check regularly as the items will be listed and then get snapped up quite quickly. They may have an email newsletter that you can sign up to to get the latest updates.
Check out websites of furniture stores so you can look at the furniture without ever moving off your seat. This way you don't waste time and energy looking around stores unsuccessfully.
You can also find discount vouchers online, so make sure you do some research before heading to the shop.
Buying in Bulk
Many salespeople will give you a discount if you buy in bulk, but you'll have to ask for it!
There are also lots of furniture packages that you can buy that often include a bed, a sofa, a coffee table, a dining chair and table, a wardrobe, chest and bedside table. Covering a wide range of styles and budgets, a furniture package is a great way to get everything you need for a good price as well as all at the same time, so there is no stress or fuss! Order furniture packages online here.
Remember that You Have Skills Too
If you spot something but don't quite like the look of it, remember that you can paint it, customise it or repurpose it so that you can turn it into something you do like. There are hundreds of tutorials on the internet where you can find out how to do things that will make your bargain a bit more aesthetically friendly. Make sure you can spot a well made piece of furniture before you try to do up your piece, because you could just end up with a pile of wood instead of that beautiful table you though you could have.