It’s nothing to be ashamed of if you’re a new homeowner on a budget; in fact, most people tend to keep their spending in check, especially after purchasing a house! There are some things, though, that you should not skimp on, and we’ve got you covered here as to what some of those are!
It goes without saying that everybody wants their money to go as far as possible. Naturally, you want to get the best price on any big purchases or projects you want to do in your house. However, if you choose the bargain-basement route, there are some things that can end up costing you more money in the long run.
Before you choose the less expensive alternative, consider the following issues:
New Furniture
Purchasing furniture should be viewed as a long-term investment. It’s critical to read reviews about the construction and fabric quality as well as consider things like looks and size.
Furniture that is poorly designed may not be robust, which is important if you have children or pets. If it’s made of flammable materials or doesn’t follow other essential furniture requirements, it may be hazardous as well.
It’s one thing to have to replace furniture because your taste in decor changes; it’s quite another to have to replace it because it didn’t last. A sofa should last 7-15 years on average, depending on the fabric, and even longer for leather.
Here are several ideas for new homeowners – or anyone looking to prioritize their furnishing budget in the best way possible:
Mattress and Bed Frame: It should go without saying, and you’ve probably already heard it, but you sleep for more than a third of your life. And that’s a lot.
A good night’s sleep will improve your health and well-being, and a bad one will damage it. The price tag on some mattresses may seem high but good mattress, like a couch, can last up to ten years!
Many higher end mattresses also come with a ‘free sleep trial’ that will allow you to return it for up to six months if it turns out not to be the right choice for you. But in short, if you value comfort, – and your health – you should spend the extra money on a mattress and a high-quality bed frame.
Couch: Similar to a bed, this is a piece of furniture you’ll use regularly. If you enjoy entertaining, having a cozy, high-quality seating should be a priority, but as we are all now spending more time at home in general comfortable, good-looking seating is more important on a day-to-day living basis too.
Last but not least, a good, heavy-duty dining table and chair set will go a long way. Not to mention, classic tables and chairs seldom go out of style, so investing in a set you love – even if it comes at a high price – will be well worth it.
Paint
Paint from a discount store is usually lighter and more watery. Whatever brush or roller you use, it will streak and provide inadequate coverage. In the end, you can find yourself using more paint to complete your painting project, resulting in a higher cost.
Aside from the coverage, bargain paint will not stand up to regular wear and tear due to the consistency. Paints with a built-in primer are more often found in higher-end paint selections and their technology allows for one-coat coverage. In the end, a higher quality paint can save you money and time when it comes to finishing your project.
Architects and Contractors
Making the decision to pursue a home improvement project is not an easy one. It’s an investment in your home that might affect its value in the future. The next most critical decision you’ll make in your project is finding the best contractor – and possibly an architect too – to complete the work. Ask around for referrals, but also do your own research to see how this contractor is regarded in terms of workmanship efficiency.
You’ll need a contractor who recognizes the value of pulling permits and adhering to building codes if you’re planning any big additions or reworking the footprint of your house. Again, poor quality can cost you more money in the long run if something has to be repaired or replaced.
Bathroom and Kitchen Renovations
The two areas in your home where you’ll get the highest return on your investment are also the two areas where you don’t want to cut corners.
Since these two rooms are usually the busiest in any home, and the two spaces homebuyers focus on when it’s time to sell, selecting timeless and high-quality items is crucial. Not only must the items look good, but they must also be durable and functional.
Getting a great deal is good for some things, but not for everything you spend your hard-earned money on. Taking shortcuts or opting for lower-quality products or services for your home can cost you more in the long run. When making big purchases or performing tasks, take advantage of discounts, coupons, or promotions, but don’t sell yourself – or your home – short.