If you’re always looking for ways to squeeze more money from somewhere to add it to your decorating budget, these tips may help:
Stash some Cash
If you currently employ a cleaning service, cut back to bi-monthly visits instead of weekly sessions. Do a few extra chores in the alternating weeks so you can pocket the extra money.
Stop trying every new cleaning product or every new scent in laundry aids, air fresheners, and fabric refreshers that comes along. If you can’t resist, buy refill or economy size products -where possible- and refill original containers. Watch sale adds or use coupons as well. The savings adds up.
When you shop online, don’t just go to the first site that offers the item(s) you are interested in purchasing. Seek discounts and sales, and more importantly, look for sites that offer free or at least low cost shipping.
Make Your Budget Go Further
Don’t just pay the sticker price for furnishings and accessories in showrooms; ask the salesperson for the bottom line price.
Go shopping with a friend who also needs to purchase furniture, lighting, accent pieces, or large accessories. A salesperson is more likely to offer a good discount in order to make larger sales.
Look for high quality used pieces in good condition before purchasing new items. I recently bought an older, solid wood chest of drawers for $25.00, a fraction of the price listed on a lesser quality new dresser. Many new pieces are made of fiberboard or contain other inferior quality materials, so make sure you know what you are getting. Even if the better piece costs a little more, it is well worth it, since you won’t need to replace it as soon.
Trade furniture and accessories. Make trades with family members, friends, or ask about trading with a used furniture dealer.