If you’re buying your first home, you might upgrade to a lot more space! There’s a big difference between a one-bedroom apartment and a three-bedroom house, after all. So if your moving truck is a little sparse, don’t fret. We have some tips to help you furnish your new home without breaking the bank.
- Ask about loans with low or no down payment options. One way to afford to buy furniture for your new home is to use some of your down payment savings for furniture costs. When you meet with your loan advisor, you can ask about some of our loan options, like a USDA home loan, VA home loan or others that come with little to no down payment. These loan options may give you extra cash to buy the needed furniture.
- Take your time furnishing your new home. We know you are probably excited to jump in and make your new house feel like home. But it can take time to find the right furniture and pieces for your needs. So don’t be afraid to let some spaces sit empty and buy only the necessities until you can afford what you want or find something you love.
- Join neighborhood Buy Nothing groups. Have you heard of Buy Nothing groups? These groups are organized online via social media to share goods and services for free. Members of these groups can post items to give away or ask for help finding new things. It’s a great movement dedicated to increasing neighborly connections and reducing waste. You may be able to find some great furniture or other household goods in your local Buy Nothing group for free, and you’ll get to make some friends in your new community!
- Shop for second-hand furniture. Another low-cost option is to buy used or second-hand furniture. You can find some great deals if you’re willing to look. Search online or in local second-hand stores to find the perfect pieces for your home.
- Try making your furniture! If you have handy DIY skills, put them to work creating one-of-a-kind furnishings for your home. You could do this by repurposing older furniture or building from scratch using materials you buy or find.
Buying your first home is a big step, financially and emotionally. It can be tempting to go into debt to buy all the furniture you need right away. But that’s not responsible, especially after such a big financial move. So instead, we recommend following these tips. There’s no rush. The beauty of owning your home is that you have all the time in the world to make it your own. So enjoy turning your house into a home that fits your life. It’s one of the best parts of being a homeowner!
