Homeowners

Budget Furnishing Tips: How to Fill Your Home Without Emptying Your Wallet

Picture this: You’ve just gotten the keys to your new home, but as you walk through all those empty rooms, all you see are price tags. That gorgeous sectional sofa you’ve been eyeing? More than a thousand dollars. The dining set that caught your attention? It isn’t cheap.

But here’s the secret savvy homeowners have discovered. Creating a beautifully decorated home doesn’t require a trust fund or a maxed-out credit card. With some creativity, patience, and insider knowledge, you can transform your space into a magazine-worthy haven while keeping your bank account happy.

“The combination of a timeless approach and knowing how to get color right gets you almost all the way to a beautiful home you’ll love forever,” said Maria Killam, designer, stylist, and founder and CEO of Maria Killam, Inc., which offers eDesign services, online courses about color, and other resources to help homeowners create cohesive, long-lasting designs.

Try these 14 tips and tricks for decorating on a dime.

1. Score big in buy-nothing groups

Buy-nothing groups on Facebook operate on a simple principle: members give away items they no longer need, completely free. From barely used furniture to decorative accessories, and even leftover paint, these hyperlocal groups are decorating goldmines.

Check groups multiple times daily and don’t hesitate to post “in search of” requests when you need a particular item.

2. Hunt for treasures at return centers

Amazon return centers and other liquidation stores sell returned or overstocked items at steep discounts—sometimes up to 90% off.

Target, Walmart, and major retailers also have liquidation centers where inventory is constantly changing, making regular visits worthwhile.

3. Discover gems at thrift stores

Turn to thrift stores regularly, as new items arrive all the time.

Look beyond furniture to home goods sections for throw pillows, curtains, artwork, and decorative objects. Many stores offer fill-the-bag sales or discount days for additional savings.

4. Transform spaces with paint

A gallon of quality paint costs under $50 and covers up to 400 square feet, making it one of the best decorating investments.

“The easiest and most impactful way to transform a room is with a can or two of paint in the perfect color that relates to the decor,” said Killam.

Create accent walls with bold colors or transform a bubble-gum pink bedroom into a muted oasis. Don’t forget paint’s ability to transform woodwork or furniture, either.

5. Master the art of textile layering

Textiles instantly warm up spaces and add personality without major investment.

Focus on throw pillows, blankets, and curtains that can be swapped seasonally. Mix patterns and textures, and don't forget rugs—they define spaces and can be found affordably at discount stores, Killam suggests.

6. Hunt for big-ticket items at Habitat for Humanity ReStores

These non-profit stores offer new and gently used furniture, appliances, cabinetry, lighting, and home decor at a fraction of the retail cost.

ReStores receive donations from furniture stores and contractors, offering a wide range of items, from sofas to architectural elements and unused paint.

Best of all, the proceeds from these stores go to Habitat for Humanity, which helps build affordable housing for local families in need.

7. Navigate estate sales like a pro

Estate sales often feature quality furniture and unique decorative pieces at reasonable prices. Arrive early on the first day for the best selection—or wait until the final day for the deepest discounts.

Many companies list upcoming sales online with photos.

8. Create gallery walls with budget art

Make impactful gallery walls using thrifted frames, free online printable art, and your own photography. Frame pages from old books, maps, or vintage postcards.

Consider making abstract art—it’s forgiving for beginners, and you can create it to match your color scheme perfectly.

“Filling all those empty walls with more art makes such a huge statement. It is worth the money,” said Killam. “They can also be found inexpensively at places like HomeGoods.”

9. Master the art of online marketplaces

Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and OfferUp offer real-time inventory and direct price negotiation. Set up saved searches for specific items and be prepared to act quickly.

Always inspect items in person and don’t be afraid to negotiate.

10. Time your retail shopping strategically

Major retailers follow predictable sales cycles, including January clearance sales, back-to-school promotions, and Black Friday deals.

End-of-season sales also offer savings on seasonal decor, while model changes mean discounts on floor samples. Sign up for newsletters for early sale alerts.

11. Explore warehouse clubs and discount retailers

Stores such as Costco, HomeGoods, and TJ Maxx offer quality furniture and decor at reduced prices.

Warehouse clubs excel at basic furniture needs, while discount retailers shine for accessories, artwork, and textiles. Visit regularly as inventory changes frequently.

12. DIY your way to custom looks

Transform thrift finds with simple projects such as reupholstering chairs, painting furniture, or creating custom artwork. Make throw pillow covers, paint geometric accent walls, or craft decorative storage boxes.

YouTube and Pinterest offer endless tutorial inspiration.

13. Don’t overlook lighting

Swap basic lampshades for stylish options or spray paint fixtures in fun colors. String lights create ambient lighting, while thrift store lamps can be updated with new shades. Simply changing light bulbs from cool white to warm white can dramatically alter a room's mood and make spaces feel cozier.

14. Create your action plan

Start by prioritizing essentials such as seating and dining, then layer in decorative elements. Set a realistic budget and be patient—the perfect piece takes time to find.

Remember that small changes can have a big impact. Sometimes, a room just needs fresh paint and new throw pillows to feel completely transformed.

“I always recommend starting with decorating and styling your main living space,” said Killam. “This way, you always have a beautiful room you love to spend time in while you work on the rest of the house.”

Furnishing a home you love is a marathon, not a sprint. Each thoughtfully chosen, affordable piece brings you closer to your dream space, sans financial stress.