Beginners Guide to Decorating Your First Home on a Budget
Currently cost of living in the UK is phenomenally high, plus the current economic crisis has left salaries a lot to be desired. As a result, fewer young adults are able to get on the property ladder in comparison to the baby bomber generation of their parents and grandparents. However, for those who are lucky enough to be able to purchase their first home, it can often be difficult to properly decorate without getting into debt. Fortunately there are plenty of ways that you can make your house a home without breaking the bank. For hints and tips to decorating your first home follow this guide.
Take it One Room at a Time
So you’ve finally found a home that suits you both financially and geographic location. Although the size of the property and condition of structural elements are ideal, the interior decoration may be a bit outdated or perhaps even a bit worn. Understandably you may not have a lot of cash at the moment since you’ve just put down your deposit and started paying off your mortgage. The trick is to focus on one room at a time, depending on your financial situation this may have to be an annual project. The first room worked on should be the room that will be used the most by you but also by guests. Typically the living room is the best place to start, followed by the kitchen or bathroom, then the entry hallway and then move on to the bedrooms. If you’re lucky there will be some rooms that don’t require a lot, if any work.
Know Where to Spend Big and Where to Save
Finances can be tricky, especially when you are trying to learn where scrimping is more detrimental to functionality. A lot of people fall into the trap of trying to cut too many corners and do everything on the cheap, resulting in a loss of quality. For example, if you buy a cheap sofa that has been poorly made with flimsy materials, it is likely it won’t last a year. A sofa is something that is used every day, not only by the inhabitants of the home but by guests and pets. Therefore this is an item that should be considered as a staple in the home. If you are going to be frugal, it should be on items that are dispensable such storage baskets. If you can’t afford to purchase a sofa brand new you should look at charity shops or Gumtree. Leather sofas are incredibly durable and most people hate to throw them away when they are still in great condition, however as people redecorate or downsize their home it isn’t always possible to keep all of their furniture. Take advantage of this and buy something previously owned. If there are any marks or scrapes on the leather you can always take it to a re-upholster, overall you will spend less than you would buying brand new yet most people won’t be able to tell it is second hand.
A food writer with a passion for classic Americana. Toby specialises in exploring the history, culture, and flavour profiles of traditional diner fare—from stacked pancakes to sizzling burgers.
