Before you even step foot inside a Home Depot or local department store, you should come prepared with a full plan of what you're going to do.
By identifying exactly where you want to make changes and how you want to decorate your house, you'll save money in the long run. Start by visualizing the style you want, along with the overall theme, and then figure out exactly where you want to make structural or major changes. For inspiration, try browsing decorating magazines and manuals at your local library.
The most critical component of any project is a detailed plan. Without one, you will likely make a number of purchases you'll later regret - or get part way through the project and wind up starting all over.
Remember, just because you have a plan doesn't mean you can't buy a great light fixture that's on sale. Rather, it just means that light fixture needs to fit into your overall plan.
2. Highlight your focal points.
Redecorating doesn't mean you have to overhaul the entire house. By focusing on one particular area, you can concentrate more of your efforts and budget on major renovations that can make a big impact on its attractiveness.
One of the best returns on any home decorating investment is a kitchen project. By updating your countertops, appliances and cabinets, you'll not only be highlighting a major focal point, but also investing in the future value of your home.
3. Identify your needs.
Are you redecorating because you want a new look or because you need to create extra space for a new child or a home business? Do you hope to make it more attractive to guests, or more functional for young children? By identifying the "why" behind your choice to decorate, you're less likely to steer off track.
If your goal is to create new space, then you'll stay focused on space-saving, multi-functional pieces. But, if your goal is a contemporary, new look then you'll know to stay away from those adorable country kitchen chairs that don't really fit your plan.
4. Measure twice, buy once.
Especially if you're buying wholesale or on sale, it's extremely important to know all your measurements. Heavily discounted furniture is often not returnable, meaning if you accidentally buy a couch that's too big for your living room, you may have to buy an axe to cut it down to size. Even if you are able to return mis-measured furniture, it results in a waste of time and certainly unrefundable delivery expenses.
5. Save money where it counts.
Just as you should spend money on high-quality items like flooring, you should always save money where it counts too. One of the easiest places to save money is on accessories and fabrics - so when it comes to accent pillows and upholsteries, be ready to hunt down a bargain. You can find them at specialty stores, thrift shops, and through a casual search online.
