Budget Friendly Decorating Tips!
You’ve signed the last form and have your keys in hand…now it’s time to move into your new home! Excitement is high—until you move your stuff into your dream house. Many new homeowners are surprised to discover that the tried-and-true furnishings that worked in their apartment or starter home aren’t quite what they had in mind for their new digs. If you drained your bank account to make this amazing change, there might not be an endless well of funds to update your décor as well.
So, are you stuck with the same old, same old while you save up the big bucks? Not on our watch! The team at Ernest Homes has some fun, budget-friendly decorating ideas to try.
Repeat after me…PAINT!
One of the most inexpensive and immediate changes you can make is adding color to your new home. Whether it’s hot red, cool blue, vibrant green or princess pink, paint can personalize your space and give your spirits a lift in just a few hours.
Go undercover with soft goods
Slipcovers, throws, new bedspreads and curtains can completely refresh the look of tired furniture or plain windows. Towels, shower curtains, bedding and throw pillows are available at every price point and can add pattern, color and texture without a big investment.
Bargain shop ’til you drop
Discount chain stores, online marketplaces like Letgo, home value merchants such as Wayfair and Overstock, and off-price retailers like Ross, TJ Maxx, Marshalls and Big Lots are treasure troves for budget decorators. Look for small furniture pieces such as end tables, lamps (or just new shades), accent chairs and stylish rugs. A few well-chosen additions can give your rooms an instant facelift.
Get thrifty
Don’t forget classic budget stops like Goodwill, the Salvation Army, garage sales, flea markets and local second-hand shops. Someone else’s redecorating project can become your best find—often for just a few dollars.
The “art” of decorating
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and art is as individual as you are. Brighten your walls and shelves with anything that makes you smile: framed family photos, inexpensive prints from local art shows, painted plates, kids’ artwork or travel souvenirs. Group pieces together for greater impact and a curated look.
Small changes, big impact
Update your kitchen or bath by changing knobs, handles and pulls, adding stylish baskets for visible storage, replacing mirrors or swapping out faucets and water fixtures. You can even create a colorful new backsplash with peel-and-stick or splash-proof vinyl wallpaper—perfect for a quick, affordable update.
Repurpose what you already own
Give existing furniture a second life. Stain wooden pieces a darker color, paint them or sand them down for a natural, sealed wood look. Wall-mount your new flatscreen TV and convert your old media center into a bookcase, bar or armoire. Turn a child’s dresser into a kitchen cart or entry console—Pinterest is full of creative repurposing ideas.
Go green with plants
Live plants bring energy and color to any room. If you have a green thumb, add lush ferns, a statement indoor tree or bright window boxes. If plant care isn’t your strength, pick up an inexpensive grocery store bouquet once or twice a week. Fresh flowers add instant style to a room without a big commitment.
Declutter décor that doesn’t work
Redecorating works best when you consider the overall look of your home. If something is worn, damaged or just plain doesn’t fit your style, it may be time to let it go. Removing dated or unnecessary accessories helps your favorite pieces shine.
Put some muscle into it
Running really short this month? You can still completely change the look of a room without spending a dime. Rearrange your furniture for an instant new perspective. Move pieces and accents from one room to another to create fresh combinations and a more balanced layout.
Ready to make your new home your own?
Decorating on a budget is all about creativity and smart choices. If you’re still searching for the perfect place to call home, explore our new home floor plans and welcoming Coastal Georgia communities. You can also browse our
