In Part 1 of this blog I talked about my Top Four Tips for selling on a budget focusing on actions. In this second part I focus on where to go when shopping.
I think it is important to note that staging isn’t all about buying new, the starting point is always to look at what you already have. It may be that simply moving things around or putting different things together can create the right look. A professional home stager who comes in to your property with a fresh eye will be able to see the space and what is in it with a new perspective. Upcycling is also a very cost effective way of transforming an object. For example, painting kitchen units.
So if you do need some “new” furniture or accessories e.g. a bed for a spare room where should you go. This blog is aimed at those staging on a budget – it is worth bearing mind that the items you choose should reflect the nature and value of the property you are selling. Having said that it is perfectly possible to mix budget buys with expensive ones.
1. Friends & Family
If you need a particular item of furniture, maybe a bed, dining table or sofa, it is always a good idea to ask friends and family if they have a spare you can borrow. People often have pieces hiding in a garage. The item needs to be the right size and in keeping with your property although bedding and throws disguise a multitude of sins.
2. Charity Shops
Charity shops are fantastic source of both furniture and accessories. For larger items ask if the organisation will allow you to “hire” the item for a period in return for a donation. If necessary you spruce up with paint or if you find an attractive lamp base invest in a new shade to go with it. Even better you are helping the environment by reusing the item and you’re supporting a good cause at the same time.
3. Online
I think these days most of us are familiar with online auction sites such as Ebay and recycling sites such as Freecycle. These are another good source of furniture and if you aren’t going to be taking the piece with you to your next property you can rehome the item in the same way.
4. Supermarkets/ Budget Stores
These are good for accessories. I’ve seen lovely stuff in places like Sainsburys and Asda. I also like Matalan, Dunelm Mill, The Range and of course Ikea. Again quality can vary so choose carefully. When selling I think new fresh fluffy towels in a bathroom and crisp bedding on a well dressed bed create the fresh inviting look buyers are looking for. Don’t neglect stylish lamps and the occasional statement ornament.
For further advice on how to style your home for sale on a budget call 07745 876182, e mail info@homestyle4u.com or complete the enquiry form below. I cover Cheshire and the North West
[contact-form][contact-field label=’Name’ type=’name’ required=’1’/][contact-field label=’Email’ type=’email’ required=’1’/][contact-field label=’Website’ type=’url’/][contact-field label=’Comment’ type=’textarea’ required=’1’/][/contact-form]
