Although redecorating on a budget can prove challenging, with some elbow grease and imagination, you can redecorate your home, stay within your budget and be very happy with the results.
Redecorating your home on a budget does not mean you have to compromise. It does mean you will need to do most of the work yourself. You will also need to be frugal and look for discounts on everything from furnishings to supplies to accessories.
Set Your Priorities
Are you redecorating one room, several rooms or just a small area? Draw up a list of priorities. If you are doing major redecorating and your budget is limited, determine what should be done immediately and what can wait.
Estimate The Cost
Create a list of estimated expenditures to understand how your plans fit into your budget. Include all expenses you may encounter, such as supplies, electrical work, plumbing, structural changes, flooring, fabrics, furniture, fixtures and accessories. Include any rental equipment you may need if you plan on doing the work yourself. Also include labour costs if you plan on hiring outside help.
Set A Time Schedule
Plan your redecorating project, so you have plenty of time to get it done without the pressure of a deadline. Rather than starting close to the holidays when things are usually hectic, start well before the holidays or wait until after the new year. Always allow extra time for unexpected problems and delays, especially if you are doing extensive redecorating or renovating.
Do The Work Yourself
One of the best ways to stay within your budget is to do as much of the redecorating yourself, from painting, wallpapering, floor refinishing and carpeting to making your own furnishings, accessories, wall art and window treatments. Create your own bedroom and kitchen linens, couch covers, chair pads and throw pillows. Decorate your walls with family photos and family artwork. Use leftover wallpaper and fabrics to cover lampshades or line cupboards and dresser drawers. You can also make coordinated wall hangings from the leftover wallpaper and table runners from the fabric pieces.
Cut Costs Where Possible
Buy your supplies, materials, fabrics, paints, brushes, and other necessities at discount prices. Shop at yard sales, flea markets, thrift shops and demolition salvage companies for good deals. Check your local retail stores for items on sale and always compare store prices.
To stay within your budget, avoid buying expensive new furniture and accessories, especially at full price. Look for going-out-of-business sales, end-of-season sales and house sales. Browse through consignment, thrift and used-furniture stores where you can usually find super deals on gently used, even unused, furnishings. Save additional money by buying new furniture that requires assembly or unfinished furniture that needs to be painted or stained. Also, consider hand-me-downs that may need some repairing or refinishing.
Get Going!
Tackle the painting, wallpapering, flooring, repairs and maintenance first. Then you can proceed to the more enjoyable parts of redecorating, adding new furniture, accents and accessories, the finishing touches that will complete your home’s new look.
Take Your Time
Take your time if your heart is set on new furniture and furnishings. Start with what you need and want the most and hold off on the rest until you can better afford it. Don’t rush the redecorating or make rash decisions you will regret. Don’t overextend your budget, and don’t abuse your credit card.
Redecorating your home on a budget can be very enjoyable and successful. If you take the time to think things through from beginning to end; cut expenses wherever possible; do most of the work yourself; you can create a wonderful new look and, save hundreds of pounds in the process and be very satisfied with your efforts.