Furnishing your first apartment is thrilling! You have a chance to create a space that is all your own. From the style, to colors, to the accent pieces, it will be you through and through. It’s only natural to take pride in what makes your living spaces comfortable and unique, but don’t go into the process without information. Here are 7 tips to keep you on track to create a space that works for you.

1. Be Sure to Measure

   You cannot measure enough. You want to make sure the pieces you find will fit into your space. You’ll also want to make sure they can fit through any halls, up stairways, and through doors. Also, take care that the furniture will fit comfortably in an area and not appear too bulky for the room.

2. Buy the Set to Save Money

   The sofa, loveseat, and matching chair, when sold as a set, will save you big bucks. Most of the time, it’s easier for furniture stores to sell the set together, so they are willing to offer a discount when sold as a whole. This Reed living room set could compliment any apartment style. Also, this set comes with throw pillows taking the guesswork out of coordinating.

3. Repurpose Old Pieces

   Maybe your parents or friends have a few older pieces they are looking to pass along. Things like dining room chairs, accent chairs and side tables may find a new lease on life in your first apartment.

4. Avoid an Impulse Buy

   It’s perfectly fine to fall in love with the perfect table and take it home that day. But if you are furnishing an entire living room, you may want to sleep on it. Don’t make a rash decision; this is an investment in your style and comfort. Make sure it’s a purchase you can literally live with.

5. Understand Proper Care

   Some of your new purchases require special care. Make sure you chat with the store clerk about how to clean any spots that will pop up over time. Some cleaners could impact the fabric dye while some could eat through the fabric altogether. If you are buying a kitchen table, ask about wear and tear. Can it take a hot pan? Proper maintenance is essential to making your furniture last.

6. Multi-Purpose Furniture

   Many pieces can serve two functions. For example, not only does the Dellara Ottoman serve as a place to put your feet up, it adds extra seating and storage. Futons can turn your living room into a guest room and they look stylish! Also, Entertainment centers not only serve as the perfect place for your TV and game console, most entertainment centers also offer a ton of extra space for all sorts of gadgets.

7. Understand Financing

   Buying a room or apartment full of furniture can be a major expense. Make a budget and stick to it. You can pay upfront, use layaway, finance through the furniture store, or put the purchase on your credit card. Know what you want to do before going down to the showroom.

Furniture shopping for the first time should be fun! Have an idea of the style you are hoping to achieve and the spaces you are trying to create. Keep these 7 tips in mind and happy shopping!