Moving into your first apartment represents an exciting transition to adulthood. Whether you’re living solo or sharing the space with a spouse or roommate, finding furniture is an important part of the process. If you need to buy many different furnishings and appliances at once, you might not be sure where to start. The following tips can help you decorate your new residence without breaking the budget.

How to Furnish an Apartment 

1. Buy What You Can’t Live Without

You need a place to sleep, eat, relax, and work or study, so invest in the must-have items first. Purchasing a bed, sofa, dresser, and a table and chairs can cover these essentials.

Other necessary and useful items include lamps, nightstands, and lounge chairs. While you may want to hang interesting artwork and watch television, postpone these nonessential purchases until you have the necessities. 

2.  Consider Used or Dual-Purpose Items

Secondhand stores and pawnshops offer high-quality furniture and accessories for reasonable prices. You might even find a truly unique piece that will give your new home a personality.

You can also consider buying items that serve multiple purposes. A futon or pullout sofa bed can serve double duty as seating and a place to sleep. Consider purchasing a large dresser and use the extra space on top for storing books or personal items. When you’re not eating, the kitchen table can serve as a work or study space.

3. Try a Pawnshop for Electronics

You might get more value for your money by purchasing certain electronics and appliances from a pawnshop. Televisions, microwaves, computers, and audio equipment are often available in good condition for reasonable prices. Before you buy, make sure the items work well and are compatible with your current furnishings or equipment. 

When you’re ready to start furniture shopping for your new apartment, head to Moore’s Pawn & Furniture in Lincoln, NE. Their 20,000-square-foot showroom features new and used furniture, as well as a wide assortment of electronics, musical equipment, jewelry, and sporting goods. Call (402) 477-5116 or visit their website for more details.