Moving into a new apartment is exciting. It can also be a little overwhelming though, especially if you don’t have much to put in it. Furniture can be expensive. When you have limited funds, finding good furniture can be a daunting task.
There are ways to find great furniture for your apartment and it doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg. With a little creativity, some persistence, and a bit of an adventurous spirit, you can find what you need without emptying your bank account. The key is finding good furniture at a decent price, not cheap furniture for a cheap price.
Estate Sales, Yard Sales, and Moving Sales
These can be great places to get awesome deals on furniture and other necessities for your apartment. Higher end neighborhoods often have higher end goods, so you may want to direct your search in those areas. Most experts recommend hitting the sales early since the best items are usually snatched up early. On the other hand, sellers will often drop their prices or be open to negotiation as the sale nears its end.
OfferUp and Craigslist
These can be incredible sources for finding cheap or free furniture. However, safety should be a priority so always take someone with you and always listen to your gut. It something seems sketchy, walk away. With that said, direct your search to listing in high end areas. You are much more likely to find goods of a higher caliber. Be careful though, cleaning and repair costs can turn a great bargain into a money pit. Pick wisely.
Thrift Stores
You can find some great deals at thrift stores. If you have a Habitat for Humanity Re-Store, check them out as well. Those items are all donated so it’s a mixed bag. You could find furniture in like new condition or it could be on its last leg. Some pieces could look like new with a little TLC. Keep in mind that people will often donate to stores that are closest to them, so thrift stores in higher end areas typically have higher end products – although that isn’t always the case.
PRO TIP: Anytime you bring used furniture and electronics into your home, check it thoroughly for pests first. One of the most common ways that roaches and bed bugs are introduced into a home by being brought in on furniture, clothing, boxes, or bags. Always look under cushions, in cracks, and underneath the furniture for any signs of pests, including waste, egg casings, or the actual pests (alive or dead). If you see any signs, make a hard pass. No deal is worth potentially bringing pests into your home.
Liquidation, Outlets, and Going Out of Business Sales
These are great places to find brand new furniture at very deep discounts. If you have a Big Lots or Rooms to Go Outlet nearby you may find some super deals, but also look at the local or regional stores as well. Look around for furniture liquidators and going out of business sales as well.
Are you looking for your next great apartment? Make The Spot on 5th your first choice for your new home.