Heres what to expect if youre budgeting for home furnishings.
Dean Mitchell/Getty Images
Moving into a new home is already expensive.
Heres what to expect and keep in mind when budgeting to furnish a home.
Photo:Dean Mitchell/Getty Images
“The level of furnishings can range from highly customized top-of-the-line quality to fast fashion punch in of furnishings.
So, when budgeting, don’t forget to factor in costs beyond just the furniture price tag.
And this is about more than just square feet.
Strike the right balance by mixing higher-end pieces with thrifty saves.
If youre importing from another country or have goods shipped long-distance, additional freight and transport costs apply.
For the lowest costs, look for online services that include delivery with the price of the furniture.
Otherwise, consider purchasing multiple items from one supplier to reduce delivery costs.
Some furniture will come with easy assembly instructions in the packaging.
Still, the actual process can be time-consuming and physically challenging.
Consider the cost of hiring a local handyperson, especially if you have a whole house to furnish.
“Phase two is design, such as rugs, curtains, and throws,” she adds.
“Phase 3 is the knick-knacks.
But with this organized approach, youre prioritizing your budget toward the items youll use and need the most.
McGinness adds that you dont have to spend the same amount on every room.
Spend less money on rooms that wont be used all the time, she advises.
After all, the guest room can easily be more budget-friendly than the primary bedroom.
Another way to think of this is cost per use.
This means decorative items, like mirrors and seasonal items, should be priced appropriately for their actual value.
If timenot budgetis your biggest concern, it may benefit you to work with an interior designer.
Last, Cohen recommends considering whether it makes more sense to rent or buy your furnishings.
Companies like Cort and Feather can help you hit the ground running if you relocate on a tight timeline.
These services can offer full rooms or a la carte items.
