HOME DECOR, INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS

The Benefits of Staying Neutral (in Home Decorating)

the-benefits-of-staying-neutral-in-home-decorating

You can ask anyone that knows me well or has least come to my home – I’m not overly colourful.

Don’t get me wrong I like colour, I like it a lot! My kids rooms are full or colour, prints, patterns and texture but for my main living space – I have remained neutral.

I love my home and my style at home.  I like neutrals.  Some might call it plain or boring but I have to disagree.

I love neutral decor, and I feel like there are some real benefits to remaining neutral.

1 – Neutrals are a classic.

They never go out of style, ever.  So if you decorate with neutrals you aren’t dating your space or making big commitments that might not work out.

2 – Neutrals work well with lots of texture.

Decorating in all neutrals gives you the chance to really get creative with mixing textures (and lots of textures) and of course print!My family room has printed drapery and pillows plus textures like brick, cowhide, shag, fur, knits and more.

3- Neutrals are calming.

Yes, some colours are too but I find the mix of neutral shades to create a calm and soothing space.

4 – All neutral spaces are easy to update.

Getting bored with an all neutral space? Adding a new accent colour is so easy and you have a lot of freedom to play with any colour you like!

5 – Neutrals work with neutrals.

When it comes to decorating, if you don’t know what you are doing or you can’t commit to anything opt for mixing neutrals, it’s a no-fail decorating scheme.  It always works and is always in style.  All neutrals work well together.

6 – Neutrals work with all styles.

If you like modern, country, traditional even industrial interior decorating styles, neutrals work with neutrals.  Take black and white for instance, depending on how it’s used and styled in can look country (think Buffalo Check), it can take on a glamorous feel in a more formal or traditional home or look very modern with crisp white walls with black decor accents.

Decorating your home should always be a reflection of your taste and style- so don’t conform to what’s trending – be yourself, that’s always in style!

0 comment
Share:
OUR FAVOURITES, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – 6 Best White Paint Colour for Trim

we-answer-wednesday-6-best-white-paint-colour-for-trim

“My house needs a fresh paint job.  I feel good about picking a wall colour but do you have any suggestions for the perfect white trim paint colour?”

 

You are so right, picking the right white can be tricky.  The look of a fresh coat of paint is spectacular and painting that trim really completes the feel. But like every other colour – there are many whites to choose from.  Not knowing which paint colour you will choose, your safest best is you use a pure and true white tone, you can’t go wrong with that. We have a few favourites to share with you.

 

  1. Simply White by Benjamin Moore – this was BM colour of the year for 2016.

 

  1. Cloud White by Benjamin Moore – this is a designer (and painter) go-to.

 

  1. Decorator’s White by Benjamin Moore -just like the name, it is a decorator’s (and painter’s) favourite.  It’s clean and crisp.

 

  1. Ultra Pure White by BEHR – so clean and so crisp -this is one of the purest whites you will see.

 

  1. Extra White by Sherwin-Williams – a great white trim choice, bright white!

 

  1. All White by Farrow & Ball – a perfect white

 

Other trim painting tips:

Caulking – be sure that before you start painting that trim to caulk any gaps

Order – paint the trim first and then the walls

Finish – be sure to use a semi-gloss when it comes to choosing a finish for your trim. A semi-gloss adds even more brightness but also when it comes to cleaning, the dust doesn’t stick!

I hope these tips  and suggestions on finding the ‘perfect’ shade of white work for you,

0 comment
Share:
HOME STAGING, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – 7 Low cost Home Staging Tips

we-answer-wednesday-low-cost-home-staging-tips

“We are selling our home and moving to a new city due to a job transfer.  I know home staging sets you apart from the competition.  We want to sell quickly and make the move to the new city easy.  We are on a tight budget, do you have any quick, easy and low budget home staging tips to share?”

 

You are absolutely right! Home staging sets you apart from the other homes on the market and you want to stand out in the crowd especially if you are in a market with lots of competition.  Every style of home can benefit from home staging.  Home staging can get you more money and help you sell faster, so the extra work to get the home prepared for the market will be worth it in the end.  Less time on the market means you can move forward with your new chapter in life without the extra stress and worry.

There are lots of quick and easy, low cost (and no-cost) staging tips. 

Here’s what we suggest:

– Clean.

I’m sure your home is clean but is it spit shine clean? Really get in there and clean that house.  Give it a good scrub down.  Buyers will notice and the home will feel great.  There is nothing like a super clean home.  Having said that, pay attention to the scent of the home.  You don’t want it to smell like harsh chemicals of bleach – that can be a turn off. Stick with scents like clean laundry, vanilla or cotton.

–  Repair.

This may cost a bit, it depends on what needs to be repaired and how handy you are.  Any burnt out light bulbs? leaky faucets? cracked tiles? chipped paint? You need to spend a bit of money here to tend to these issues.   Has it been a while since you painted the house?  You might want to consider a paint job – a fresh paint job goes a long way and make a huge difference! Over look these repairs or just leave it? Buyers will think you maybe left other issues unresolved, bigger issues. If there are too many repairs to pay for and maybe you don’t have the time, consider that when pricing your home with your agent.

– De-clutter.

We all have junk.  Since you are moving anyway this is a great opportunity to lose some weight.  Go through your stuff and get rid of what you don’t want/need you will be surprised how much you can accumulate in a short period of time.  Go through everything – drawers, closets, cabinets etc.  Don’t spend the time, money and energy moving to the new place to just to toss it – get rid of it now.  The house will feel lighter. Plus when buyers see clutter it is a stresser and it sends a message that there isn’t enough storage (one of the top things buyers are looking for is storage).  One area to really pay attention to is above the kitchen cabinets – don’t store anything up there, it’s distracting and looks messy (even decorative items) and bathroom counter tops, we tend to ‘collect’ soap, lotions and more. Clear off surface spaces – kitchen counters, your coffee table, end tables, kitchen table, desk etc…Clear out the clutter!

– Pre-pack and depersonalize.

You know you are moving , so pre-pack certain items that you know are going to come with you.  For instance family photos and collections – we don’t want them in the space because they personalize the space – you don’t want buyers to feel like they are visiting, you want them to mentally move in – your memories will block that from happening.  Collectibles should also be packed up – again they are personal plus they can clutter up the space depending on the size of the collection.  Have a lot of art or books? A few are fine but if you have too many they can add bulk to the room making the space feel cramped, so pre-pack some of those pieces (at least the ones coming with you)

 

– Let there be light!

Pull back the drapes, clean those windows and be sure to replace burnt out bulbs or up the wattage.  Light makes a huge difference in a space.  If you have a dark room, add some table or floor lamps. When it is time for your photos, be sure to have your lights on – over head, task lights all of your lights – it looks so much better in photos! Take a look at the two images below – image 1 has all of the lights on – even though they have beautiful natural light streaming in from the patio doors and window.  Look how bright the room is. Image 2 – no lights on at all.  The light from the window just isn’t enough.  Yes, it is a beautiful room but it looks a bit dull without the lights on.

 

         

– Curb appeal.

Make sure the exterior is maintained, it’s your home’s first impression.  So trim the grass and hedges.  Make sure exterior lights are in working order.  Is the address plate visible and in good condition? Does the door bell work? Shovel or sweep the porch and walkway/driveway. These details are important.

 

– Set the scene.

This is the fun part and the creative part. Use magazines as your inspiration -make the bed and make it look inviting like you would see in a chic hotel.  Have a great dining room space? Set the table to help buyers visualize entertaining in the space.  Add a touch of colour in the kitchen.  Some flowers or a fruit bowl on the island or kitchen table make the room look fresh. Take a look at your furniture or better yet get a friend to help – is there too much? Is there flow? You may need to re-arrange some pieces, so try to find a way to create a comfortable set up that encourages conversation but also shows off the space.

 

Be sure to keep the ‘creative’ stuff last and follow these steps in this order. Remember, home staging isn’t just about fluffing pillows  – it’s a step by step process to make the home look it’s best.  Buyers are looking for their new home not your old home, so follow these steps and your house will shine!

13 comments
Share:
HOME STAGING

5 Home Staging Tricks

5-home-staging-tricks-that-work

We have some home staging tricks to share with you! Home staging is a MUST in any real estate market! We have been staging homes for the resale (and new home market) for a number of years now and while styles and trends change there are definitely some tried and true home staging tricks that work every time!

Here are 5 Home Staging Tricks that work (every time)!

 

1. Inviting entry with potted plants or flowers –

This little trick makes everyone feel welcome, it adds a splash of colour and a ‘breath of fresh air’.  The front door is the first impression so you want to start off on the right foot! Be sure to maintain these plants/flowers and keep it seasonal for maximum effect.

 


Photo from entrop.com

2. Extra pillows on the bed and the sofa –

Fluffy pillows have a real warmth to them and they certainly add that element to a living room, family room and bedroom.  Throw pillows also allow you to add an extra design touch to a space – a pop of colour and some pattern make a space look instantly fresh and with a designer’s touch.

 


Photo from 2ladiesandachair.com

3.  Clean white towels –

Ever notice that in boutique and luxury hotels you always see these plush, clean white towels and robes? Well, take that cue and stage your bathroom with some fresh and clean pure white towels, buyers will immediately think of luxury, relaxation or a spa experience – play into that feeling and use it to your advantage. This simple addition will make buyers associate that feeling with your bathroom.

 


Photo from flickr.com

 4. Setting the table –

Staging is all about presenting the home in it’s best light, but we want to be sure to make buyers feel like this is their next home not like they are just visiting. By setting the table you are ‘setting the scene’, buyers will be able to better picture themselves hosting a dinner party, entertaining for the holidays or having Sunday family dinner.  It’s another emotional connection made with staging that helps the buyers feel more at home.

 


Photo from rjkhomesolutions.com

5. Add a pop of colour in the kitchen –

The kitchen is one the hot spots when it comes to selling your home.  Buyers want a  clean and current looking kitchen, and they are willing to pay more for a home that has updated kitchens and bathrooms.  But even the most stunning kitchen can look a little flat in the listing photos – try adding a fresh pop of colour, we love a bowl of lemons, yellow always photographs well and it really attracts the eye.  But fresh flowers, fruit bowl, a tray with wine, a colourful tea kettle are all great ideas to add just a little accent to the kitchen without distracting or over powering the space.

 

Photo from ZDesign at Home

We all know that cleaning, decluttering and repairs are needed plus we know that updates in paint, flooring and lighting make great returns and great impressions on buyers.  Current finishes in bathrooms and kitchens are also a hot commodity but there are certain staging tricks that really connect with buyers.
 
I hope these tips help you sell that house quickly and for top dollar!
0 comment
Share:
TRENDS

2017 Colour of the Year: Greenery

2017-colour-of-the-year-greenery

So it was just announced last month by Pantone that the Colour of the year for 2017 is Greenery.

Pantone describes this shade as “greenery is a fresh and zesty yellow-green shade that evokes the first days of spring when nature’s greens revive, restore and renew. Illustrative of flourishing foliage and the lushness of the great outdoors, the fortifying attributes of Greenery signals consumers to take a deep breath, oxygenate and reinvigorate.”

 

This colour definitely makes us think of spring and really brings us in tune with nature.

We knew that 2017 trends would definitely have a real connection with nature with the resurgence of wood and wood grain and a real draw towards warmer and natural textures this colour fits right in with that scene.

This colour is on the bolder side with a lot of energy but you can bring it into your space with ease….

1. Shades of Green –

When it comes to decorating with the colour of the year (any year) make that colour fit into your style so that might means finding a shade that is less saturated and one that is softer (or the opposite) and then bringing that into your space.  Don’t worry so much about taking the trend literally.


Photo from HGTV

2. Quantity –

At first, be sure to add a small amount just to test the waters and keep it simple with accessories like decor pieces, florals, pillows – things that aren’t big budget breakers but will give the room a fresh look.  If you like what you see you can always add more but small changes can give you big results!


Photo from Home Bunch

3.  Mix it in with your current scheme –

You might think that this colour isn’t overly versatile but that’s not true! It really works well with so many other colours – it pairs beautifully with neutrals like grey, navy, white, chocolate brown and more plus it plays well with other colourful options like yellow, pink, cobalt blue….


Photo from adore home

4. Add life to any room –

The wonderful part about this colour is that it is true to mother nature and it gives every single space a fresh new burst of life! Try adding a floral arrangement, a bowl of apples (or even limes) or a plant in any room and you won’t believe what a change it makes.


Photo from mylusciouslife.com

5. Play with pattern –

Adding a splash of the trendy colour into a mix of different patterns will really give your space a designer look and feel.  we love this combination of the softer greenery colour paired with white and this denim and navy blue.


Photo from calicocorners.com

6. Works with any style –

Some colours don’t translate well with certain styles of decor but greenery really works with any style.  If you love a Country look it works with florals and gingham, like a more traditional style? Try adding some greenery in a toile print or in some botanical art.  If you are more modern and streamlined – greenery is a great splash in art or pillows even a great accent chair.  If your style is more vintage or retro – the possibilities are endless!


Photo from Architectural Digest

7. Make it interesting and a little unexpected –

This might not for everyone but if you are someone who really likes this colour (or any colour) and you aren’t afraid to show it – use it where one might not expect to see it!  Areas like lighting – a colourful pendant in a kitchen can make a big and bold statement. Furniture pieces like a sofa or bar stools.  Wall paper accent walls in a front entry. Paint a piece of furniture that needs a bit of a makeover.


Photo from concepts & Colorways

You can absolutely ‘take a risk’ with greenery and bring it into your space.  Even just the smallest addition of this beautiful colour will do wonders for your space!

I hope this helps you embrace this hot colour for 2017 – bold can be beautiful!

0 comment
Share:
HOLIDAYS, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – Christmas Tree Ideas for Small Spaces

we-answer-wednesday-christmas-tree

“I really want a Christmas Tree but I’m in a small apartment.  Any ideas how I can still have a tree without taking over my whole space?”

You can absolutely have a tree in your space – Christmas trees aren’t just for large homes!

Depending on the size of your space and where you want to put your tree you may need to get a little creative but we have some ideas for you.

A smaller tree can still make a big impact!  To make it look even larger without all the bulk try placing it on a stool.  This image has a mini tree placed in a steel bucket (for a bit of a rustic feel) and propped up on a stool.  this gives the tree height but the stool isn’t big and full.


Photo from House Beautiful Magazine

Instead of a whole tree why not make use of some branches? They are easy to find this time of year and they are an affordable option.  We love the simplicity of some evergreen branches in a glass vases, add some colourful decor and you are set.

 
Photo from Buzzfeed.com

This idea is nothing short of brilliant!  This ‘half tree’ (aka Corner or Flat back Christmas trees) takes up half the space of a full Christmas tree but you can push it right up against the wall so it won’t eat into your living space.  Half the lights, half the decorations so half the work!


Photo from Treetopia Christmas Trees

 Want the look of a gorgeous Christmas tree without all the work and mess? Try a hanging Christmas tree canvas.  IKEA knows all about decorating and furnishing small spaces and they knew that the Christmas tree would also be a challenge – so they came up with this!


Photo from bricobistro.com

 Have you heard of a pencil tree? These are tall and skinny trees, they are perfect for anyone short on extra space as they don’t fill the room but they are full of holiday cheer.


Photo from martahome.com 


Maybe you want something child friendly? This wall hanging felt tree is perfect for the little ones in your life.  It’s fun and festive and bonus – it’s mess free! It’s child height so even the little ones can participate in decorating too – perfect for parents, grandparents or aunts and uncles! 


Photo from Etsy


The shape of a tree can be an inspiration, too! Use cards, twigs, photos, branches and even lights to create a beautiful wall art display in honour of the Christmas tree.  

Photo from PSbyDila.com

Another fun and simple idea is the Christmas tree wall vinyl – this is so easy to put up and it won’t cause nay damage to your walls.  There are so many different designs you might find it challenging to pick one!


Photo from Chrisymas.com 

Keep it fun and festive and find a style that fits you and your space,

0 comment
Share:
HOLIDAYS, INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – How to create a welcoming guest room

we-answer-wednesday-how-to-create

“Christmas break is coming soon and we have out of town guests staying with us for a few days, how can we make them feel at home when staying with us?”

Hosting out of town guests is a part of the holidays and you definitely want your guests to feel comfortable.  When it comes to hosting house guests you really want to think of the details – it really is the small things that make the difference!

It’s always nice to have a guest room that looks and feels like a bedroom – you really want your house guests to feel like they are welcome and a part of your home.  A cohesive looking bedroom is always a welcoming touch.  We always recommend decorating a guest bedroom in a soothing and calming theme and in neutral colour tones.

These elements are musts when having guests stay over for a few days:

1. Fresh bedding and an extra blanket and pillows
2. Night stand with lamp and alarm clock
3. Trash bin
4.Tissues
5. WiFi password
6. Clean towels (a set for each guest)
7. Available outlet to charge phones, tablets etc…
8. Bottled water and snacks
9. Clothing hangers and space in the closet (and/or dresser)

It’s always a great idea to stock up on some extra toiletries too – everyone always forgets something…

– toothbrush
– tooth paste
– dental floss
– ibuprofen
– hair dryer
– shampoo and conditioner
– q-tips
– hand lotion

Some little extras that add a little something special…

– fresh flowers or potted plant
– Spare reading materials (books or magazines)
– Notepad and pen

Be sure to tour your guests around the house and let them know where to find essentials like bathrooms, laundry, coffee and how to work the TV.

The best thing you can do when it comes to creating an atmosphere that will make your guests feel welcome is to imagine how someone else would make you feel welcome in their home.  Put yourself in their shoes…

0 comment
Share:
HOLIDAYS, HOME STAGING

Selling and Staging during the Holiday Season

we-answer-wednesday-selling-and-staging

“We are selling our home and our agents wants to book our photos.  Should we have them done before or after we decorate for Christmas? Our house looks so beautiful with the tree up and the stocking hung on the mantle. We love it and we think others will too!”

Christmas is right around the corner and it is such a wonderful time of year!  Decorating is one of our favourite parts of the season, too – it’s festive and fun! But when it comes to selling your home, holiday decor presents more negatives than positives….and there are definitely buyers out there looking for their new home during the Christmas season, so you don’t want to turn them off!

We love the welcoming exterior – it’s seasonal but not over done.  But be sure not to leave it up too long….or put it up too early….

What are the negatives of  seasonal decorating (for any holiday) while selling your home:

1. Distracting.

Yes, Christmas and other holiday decor is beautiful but it can really distract buyers from seeing the beauty and features of your home as they will be focused on the tree, wreath, lights, stockings and more…..and not the windows, layout …

A few festive Christmas mantle but this would be distracting for buyers. I would remove the banner and gifts. You could keep the garland and stockings for the Christmas season – but decorate after your photos!

2. Clutter.

Although we never really view or consider holiday decor pieces to be clutter when they are out on display they do take up room and can make a space look and feel cluttered and over stuffed.  Think about how much smaller a room looks with a 7 – 8 ft tree in it – it takes up space!

 
3. Dating.

Holiday decor can really date your online photos and make your home look like it has been sitting on the market a lot longer than it has.  Let’s say you have your photography done in early Dec with all of your decorating done.  By mid January these photos will already look dated and it will send the message to buyers (and their agent) that your home has been sitting even though it has only been 30-40 days.

4. Personal.

When you decorate for Christmas or really any holiday, it can be a very personalized touch to the space especially if you have family heirlooms, religious items and handmade ornaments and other crafts made by your children or grandchildren.  It personalizes the space and that can make buyers feel uncomfortable (or like they are just visiting) as they are trying to picture their lives and building memories of their own in this house.

So definitely have your photos take BEFORE you decorate.

When it comes to seasonal decorating before showings and open houses – really try to eliminate or at least limit the decor – for the same reasons listed above. But if you must decorate for Christmas while your home is on the resale market – keep these tips in mind…

 
1.  Do NOT decorate BEFORE your photos.

2. Do keep it simple and tasteful with a consistent theme (for example: mixed metallics or traditional green, white and red; or country or modern).  This year keep it simple by only bringing out some decor – the house shouldn’t look like Christmas town!

3. Do NOT keep the decorations up too long or too late. Or decorate too early either. Aim to have the decor packed up by Jan 4 (approx)

4. Do NOT hang up or display really personal decor such as family photos, religious items, handmade ornaments and crafts by children or grandchildren

5. Do keep it welcoming and inviting with a small vignette by the front entry and then some decor in main living areas (try to limit to a room to two, for example the family room as the main Christmas decorating space and maybe a few items in the dining room and/or formal living room – stay consistent with that theme)

Celebrate the season without going totally over board. Remember in your new home (the next one), you can decorate as early as you want and keep it up as long as you like and you can go all out!

Remember, when it comes to selling your home you really don’t want to drag out the process so follow the steps to get it sold quickly and next Christmas you can really make up for the lack of decor!

0 comment
Share:
HOLIDAYS, HOME DECOR

Christmas decor for everyone!

christmas-decor-for-everyone

Yes – there is Christmas decor for everyone and every style! Well…it’s about 1 month away – Christmas day! Have you decorated yet?

If you love to decorate but feel like Christmas just doesn’t blend with your style we have some news for you – this year there is something for everyone!

 

In the past, Christmas decor was all about a traditional look and sticking with a white, green and red motif with a touch of silver or gold; or, it was very child like and full of animation.

 

For the person that loves bright colour and even neon hues –

This option is for you….try a white tree with lots of bright and bold colour decor items! You can even find bright colour trees like aqua or pink.  We love a fun punch of colour and colour is so festive so why not opt for colour and fun this holiday season? Try adding some different elements to your tree to make it really unique like bright bows that are oversized and full or print, bright colour feathers from a craft store, bold neon baubles, ribbons, pompoms and so much more!

 

For the person that loves glitz and glamour…

Why not dress up your home for this Christmas in metallics? The shiny and reflective surfaces look so chic and sophisticated (timeless too).  You can stick with one metallic like silver and keep it so cool and clean or blend them all.  Mix in some glitter and crystals for a total glam look.  We love to see metallics mixed with white twinkle lights.  Paired with a white tree gives the look a more modern feel but paired with a classic evergreen makes it a bit more elegant, it’s up to you!

 

 

For the person that likes a more rustic look…

You can incorporate your favourite woodland animals like owls, deer and moose along with wood textures like birch, mix in some plaid and knit textures for a cozy cabin Christmas vibe. Burlap garlands around the tree, grapevine accessories and pine cones are easy and simple additions to any evergreen tree and will give the look that rustic country feel.

 

For someone who likes a more modern look…

Try a minimalist and monotone look.  Grey is a hot neutral and why not incorporate it into your Christmas decor motif? Pair it with some silver decor and you do not have to fill the tree with decor – keep it clean and simple. If you have grey in your home currently and like a tone on tone look this is a great option for you.

 

For the sports fan why not find a another way to display your team colours? 

Try a sports themed tree celebrating Christmas and your team! You can find logo decorations for all of the professional teams and college team plus you can easily find lights, ribbon, baubles and more in your team colours.  Go Team! Go Christmas!!

 

 

For the person that likes something a bit different but you want to nod to tradition somewhat…

why not decorate with an unexpected colour combination? Black and white are not your traditional Christmas colours but they are a classic combination, they look great together even on a tree. Add a fun pop like yellow or even aqua (Tiffany Blue like the tree here) for something really unique and eye catching.  Make the Christmas a part of your decor scheme!

 

 

For the fashionista or aspiring fashion designer…

Show off your flare for fashion with this dress form tree.  Dress this tree up how ever you like! Add as much bling as you like and in any colour – you can really take this idea to the next level and completely customize it! This tree truly has a style of its own!

 

 

For the person that loves the beach…

Try a coastal Christmas tree! Shells, starfish and silver dollars look amazing on a tree paired with soft pastel tones.  If you love Christmas and you love the beach this is perfect for you or if you live on the coast and want to compliment the surroundings this is a great look, too!  The beach themed items pair so nicely with the green tree and the silver tones and glass baubles.

 

 

For the person who loves the traditional colours but want to make a statement…

Make your tree a total designer showpiece and go over the top with oversized decor items all over your tree! To get this sculptural look you will need time, patience plus lots of floral wire but you can definitely achieve this fabulous look and it gives a fresh take on the traditional colours.

 

 

For the person that loves the snow….

A snow flocked tree is for you!  Take the look of nature, those stunning snow covered evergreens and bring it indoors – this is a great look with any colour scheme or style.  It works beautifully with bold and bright neon hues, the rustic look and even the more elegant and traditional looks. You can even transform your current artificial tree to a snow covered one with a little DIY

 

 

Remember when you are decorating for the holidays, keep the theme consistent – that will give your home that designer holiday look no matter which style you prefer.  Make sure that no matter your style – have fun!

0 comment
Share:
INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – Where to save and where to spend when buying furniture

we-answer-wednesday-where-to-save-and

“We have bought our first home and we need to make a lot of furniture purchases.  We see the price tags and the costs add up, and quickly.  When it comes to buying furniture – which pieces are worth splurging on and where can we save?”

Congratulations of your home purchase ! What an exciting time! Furnishing and decorating your first home is a fun experience, it is a great way to bring your sense of style into YOUR home.  But you are right, the costs can really add up and very quickly.

 

 

The first thing you need to do – is figure out your budget.  Your budget is determined by what you feel comfortable spending. Figure out:
What you need to buy?
What (if anything is coming with you from your last place)?
Are you getting any furniture pieces from friends or family?
What would you like to have but it’s not needed now.
This is a great guide to figure out what you need to spend now and what to focus on later.

 

When it comes to actual items that are worth the extra cost, we have some suggestions.

– Sofa:

it is worth to spend on a sofa but again be sure it is an amount you feel comfortable with.  Not everyone feels good about spending $5,000 on a sofa.  But when it comes to sofas, there is a quality and comfort difference that is attached to price.  We also suggest ‘test driving’ a sofa in person – make it is comfortable and supportive – don’t just buy a great deal because it is a great deal.

– Mattress:

you will sleep every night on that mattress so find the right one and be sure to check them out in person.  Buy the best mattress that you can afford.  You don’t want to live with neck and back pain everyday because the mattress was a great deal!

– Labour:

when it comes to work that’s being done in your home, don’t skimp – it will be noticeable and you will end up spending more to have someone else come in and fix what was already done.

– Window coverings:

we would put this on the ‘maybe later’ part of your list but that does depend on your size and style of windows.  If you have a standard size window, store bought pre-packaged panels with a rod will be just fine.  Custom window drapery varies in price but if you have oversized windows, or odd shaped windows – the extra cost is worth it.

– Flooring:

if your current home has ugly or dated floors, or flooring that is in terrible shape – it is worth spending now on the update (before you move in!)

 

Where can you save?

On just about everything else.  You might be at a point in your life where you are figuring out your taste and style and this is a great time to experiments with less expensive pieces like dining chairs, armchairs, rugs and bedding.

 

When you move into your first place it is exciting but also a bit overwhelming.  Many feel that they need to drop a fortune to furnish their place.  Don’t spend anymore than you are comfortable with and don’t invest in anything that you don’t love or is uncomfortable – it’s not worth it!  True personal style comes from mixing the pieces, colours and textures that you love and building that ‘nest’ takes some time….Rome wasn’t built in a day!

0 comment
Share:
1…4647484950…66