Furniture Shopping Tips for First-Time Homeowners
Purchasing a home for the first time? Or maybe you’re just looking to replace furniture for your new space. You’ve got the keys, the place is all yours, and now comes one of the most exciting parts: furnishing your new space. Whether you’re starting with a blank canvas or mixing and matching with some existing pieces, some furniture shopping tips can go a long way in creating a comfortable space for your new home. At Augustus & Carolina, we understand that purchasing furniture can sometimes be just as stressful as closing on your home. Because of that, here are a few furniture shopping tips to get you started.
1. Measure Twice, Buy Once
Before you fall in love with that gorgeous sectional sofa, grab your tape measure! There’s nothing worse than realizing your dream couch won’t fit through your door or, worse, takes over your entire living room. Measure your spaces, doorways, and hallways. This should be done before you even start shopping. That way, you have a great starting point to begin looking! And remember, it’s not just about fitting the furniture in; you need space to move around too! Think about the layout and flow of each room to ensure you create a comfortable and functional living space. We recommend sizing down slightly. That way, you can focus on furniture that compliments your space with plenty of legroom.
2. Set Your Budget
It’s not too hard to get carried away when you’re looking for furniture! Set a budget beforehand to avoid impulse buys that could lead to buyer’s remorse. Consider investing in key pieces like a good sofa or bed, and save on items like side tables and decor. Make a list of priorities and allocate your budget accordingly.
Planning ahead allows you to create a cohesive and stylish home without breaking the bank. Also, consider allocating a portion of your budget for unexpected expenses like delivery fees, assembly costs, or that must-have accessory you stumble upon unexpectedly. It’s helpful to track your spending as you go, adjusting where necessary to stay on track. And remember, it’s okay to splurge a little on items you’ll use every day – quality often pays off in the long run.
3. Mix and Match
Gone are the days of furniture sets that look like they came straight out of a catalog. Mix different styles, textures, and colors to create a space that reflects your personality. Love that modern coffee table but also adore vintage chairs? Go for it! Your home should be a reflection of you. Combining diverse pieces can add character and make your space feel more curated and unique. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate personal treasures and family heirlooms.
There are plenty of effective ways to mix and match tons of different patterns, textiles, and materials. Whether it’s for a new outdoor space, or your main living room, check out our tips on mixing and matching at Augustus & Carolina.
4. Add Your Personal Touches
Your furniture lays the foundation, but the personal touches make a house a home. While most furniture doesn’t allow you to personalize it, decor can be a great way to throw in a little personal touch. Add some artwork, throw pillows, cozy blankets, and plants. These details bring warmth and personality to your space.
The difference is, these things can grow over time: there is no need to buy all your decor at once! Don’t rush this process; let it happen organically as you find pieces that resonate with you. Personal touches can transform a space, making it inviting and reflective of your unique taste and experiences.
5. Sample Before You Buy
Shopping online is convenient, but don’t forget to visit stores to try out the furniture in person. Sit on that sofa, lie on that bed, and see how it feels. Comfort is just as important as looks. Plus, you might stumble upon a piece that didn’t catch your eye online. Taking the time to experience furniture firsthand ensures that you’re making the right choices for your home. Additionally, it can be a fun outing and give you a better sense of your style preferences.
That’s why at Augustus & Carolina, our showrooms are filled with floor pieces to get a closer look at. Explore everything from bedroom furniture to full dining sets in our indoor showroom. Our outdoor showroom also features tons of accessories, lounge chairs, outdoor eating areas, firepits, and more! Make your space yours.
Furniture Shopping Tips with Augustus & Carolina
Looking to invest in something new for your home? Augustus & Carolina can assist you in building your new interior style. With tons of unique options for any aesthetic, we are here to make your vision a reality! Need some inspiration? Check out our indoor furnishing gallery and outdoor gallery. Come visit our showroom at 822 Front Street, Georgetown, SC 29440.
