Are you about to move into your new place or perhaps considering a complete makeover for your current home? One question that often pops up is: “How much does it cost to furnish a house?” We’ve got you covered, mates! In this guide, we’ll help you navigate the furniture shopping world without breaking the bank.
Furnishing budget: the basic essentials
Living room furnishings
From the coffee table to the sofa, the living room is the centrepiece of any home. Average costs for a well-appointed living room can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on where you’re shopping. Consider affordable furniture stores or even thrift stores for cheap home decor ideas.
- Sofa: $500 – $2000
- Coffee Table: $50 – $300
- Entertainment Unit: $100 – $500
- End Tables: $50 – $200 per table
- Table Lamps: $20 – $200 each
Master bedroom furnishings
Alright, let’s “jump into” furnishing your bedrooms, shall we? This includes your master bedroom, guest room, and of course, the kiddos’ rooms too. From bed frames to dressers and other bedroom furniture, there are a few things to keep in mind. Let’s break down some costs so you know what you’re in for:
- Bed Frame and Mattress (Master Bedroom): $300 – $2000
- Bed Frame and Mattress (Guest Bedroom): $200 – $1500
- Dresser: $150 – $800
- Nightstands: $50 – $200 each
Kitchen and dining room furnishings
Now, let’s waltz into the heart of your home, the kitchen and the dining room. This is where we whip up some tucker, share a meal, and make lasting memories. From your dining table to essential kitchen appliances, there’s a bit to consider. So, let’s crack on and give you an idea of what to budget for:
- Dining Table and Chairs: $200 – $2000
- Kitchen Appliances: $300 – $1500
Additional home furnishings and accessories
Bathroom accessories
“Bathing beauties” deserve a ripper bathroom, don’t they? But hey, no need to panic about the cost, mates. With some savvy options, the cost to upgrade your bathroom can be kept on the down low.
- Towels and Bath Mats: $20 – $100
- Shower Curtain: $10 – $50
- Bathroom Accessories (Soap dispenser, toothbrush holder, etc.): $5 – $50
Home office essentials
Working from home? Cheap home office furniture can still be functional and stylish.
- Desk: $100 – $500
- Chair: $50 – $300
- Shelving or Storage: $50 – $300
Outdoor and patio furniture
If you’re lucky enough to have an outdoor space, furnishing it with a BBQ and some patio furniture could be the “thing.”
- BBQ Grill: $100 – $500
- Patio Table and Chairs: $200 – $2000
Cost factors
Brand vs. non-brand
Sure, we all fancy a Pottery Barn couch, but when the rubber hits the road, is it within our furniture budget? Non-brand items can offer a comparable look for less.
New vs. secondhand
Ever heard of “one person’s trash is another’s treasure?” Don’t shy away from secondhand furniture items; they can drastically reduce your furnishing budget. Thrift stores and online marketplaces are full of pre-loved treasures waiting for a new home.
Quality vs. quantity
How much does It cost to furnish a house? The answer also depends on quality and quantity. Are you after a fully furnished bedroom or just the basics? It’s the age-old conundrum, isn’t it? Do you go for a few high-quality pieces or fill your rooms with lower-cost items?
This decision largely hinges on your personal needs, your lifestyle, and of course, your budget.
If you’re someone who appreciates a blend of durability and good looks, then splashing out on quality furniture might be a smart move.
High-quality furniture tends to last longer, often boasting top-notch construction and sometimes even coming with a guarantee or warranty. Striking the right balance between quality and quantity can have a fair dinkum impact on the overall cost.
People Also Ask
Can I use a furnishing cost calculator?
Too right, you can! Furnishing cost calculators are handy little online tools that can give you a ballpark figure of the average cost to furnish an entire house.
They typically take into account a variety of factors, like the size of your rooms, the quality of furniture you’re after, and even where you’re located, to give you a rough guesstimate. But remember, these are just estimates, and the real costs can vary.
So, use them as a jumping-off point, not as a concrete “set-in-stone” budget.
Should I hire an interior designer?
Well, that’s a question with a “depends” answer. If your budget can stretch to it, hiring an interior designer could save you time and stress. They can offer professional advice, tailor designs to your style, and sometimes snag discounts from certain furniture shops.
But on the other side of the coin, if your budget’s a bit on the tight side, you might be better off taking the DIY route. You’ll find reversible rental apartment decor ideas by the truckload on the internet, and with a sprinkle of creativity, you can make your place look ace without breaking the bank.
Where can I find cheap home decor ideas?
There are heaps of resources for affordable home decor. Online platforms like Pinterest and Instagram are loaded with DIY decor ideas. Thrift stores and garage sales can be gold mines for unique, affordable pieces. Don’t forget to check out discount retailers or clearance sections in your favourite stores, too!
What’s the cost difference between furnishing a rental and a house you own?
If you’re renting, you might not want to invest as much in furnishings, especially if you move frequently. Also, some rentals come partially or fully furnished, which can reduce costs.
If you own your home, you might be more willing to invest in higher-quality furniture since you’ll be using it for longer. However, the principles of smart shopping and budgeting remain the same whether you’re renting or buying.
