The First Home: Tips to make moving to your own home enjoyable

Before you get carried away about moving into your new home, determine what you have, what you need and what you want. Your priority should be what you need and how much money you are willing to spend.

Second hand stuff

Chances are that you do not have a lot of money; second hand furniture and curtains are the way to go. Being your first home, you may not need it for long and as such, do not go for expensive items. There are many options available from second hand shops or expatriates leaving. The minimum you need is a good mattress and a bed; a quality sofa and chairs; a TV stand; and a table and maybe some chairs for the dining room. If you buy good quality pieces, they may serve you for years to come.

Simplicity

Keep your décor simple. You will get many décor items occasionally and this is more fun than buying everything at once. Start with the bedroom since this is where you will spend almost a third of your time. Get new bedding and if you have a little extra cash, paint the walls to complement your bedding. Add matching curtains.

Dirty work

Clean your new apartment before you move in. It is easier to paint and do repairs in an empty house. Your décor will look better in a clean and organized house. Put some time into repairs or renovations and you will feel more connected to your home. Rearranging the furniture you already have could also give your home a new look. 

Slow but sure

Do not buy everything at once. It is wise to live in your new house for at least two months before you make any significant buys. Do not also buy everything at one place so that you are in a position to compare style and prices. It takes a while before you find the right house; thus you won’t be able to furnish it in a week, month or year. You can put off some purchases until you are ready for them. Do not buy on impulse; you may end up getting stuck with something you will hate for the rest of your life. Use your head, not your heart when deciding on what to buy.

Matching

Fight the urge to match everything. Most shops create the impression that everything in the home must match; and they would wish that you bought them in sets. Get a few pieces that have the same style and you are good to go. Don’t forget to input your personal style. Ensure your furniture and accessories have proportion, scale and balance. Don’t shove an oversized sofa set into a tiny living room.

Cheap solutions

Freshen up drab kitchen cabinets with paint and change the handles, which are available at affordable prices. Décor magazines and TV shows are a great source of inspiration. However, they tend to follow trends. As someone who just moved into your first house, you may not afford to do that; simply don’t follow the crowd. If you must follow a new trend, then go for something affordable like throw pillows.