Save or Splurge? How to Spend Your Money on Home Decor and Furniture

Everyone has a budget when it comes to home decorating. Whether you’re outfitting an entirely empty house or you’re just giving your old one a little makeover, we all have our financial limits.

But that doesn’t have to mean dollar stores and bargain-price furniture throughout the house. It just means you need to be a bit choosier in where you splurge and save.

Want to make the most of your home decorating budget? Here’s what to spend on and what’s just not worth it:

Save or splurge in the living room?

Splurge: Couch and seating

You, your loved ones, and your guests are going to be on that couch a lot, so spend the extra cash to make sure you’re all comfortable. You should also go the extra mile and get it stain-proofed — especially if you have kids or pets. It’s usually only a few hundred dollars, but it can help safeguard your investment for the long haul.

Save: Tables and rugs

These are more accessories than necessities, so spending a little less on them is just fine. Home improvement stores are actually a great place to find budget-friendly rugs, and you can shop a decent side and coffee table at places like Walmart, Target, and Wayfair.com.

Save or splurge in the bedroom?

Splurge: Mattress

Just like your couch, this one’s going to get a lot of use. Splurging for a high-end mattress that’s comfortable, durable, and supportive is critical for long-term health and happiness.

Save: Headboard and bedframe

What’s really important is what the headboard and bedframe hold, so feel free to cut back a little on these items. Basic metal frames are cheap (and sometimes even free at mattress stores), and you can even build your own tufted headboard for a fraction of the cost. 

Save or splurge in the kitchen?

Splurge: Appliances and table

Put your cash toward the high-use items, like your stove, refrigerator, and dining table. Make sure they’re a good brand that comes with a warranty, and if you’re getting a wood table, ask if it’s been sealed and stained to protect from stains and water rings. 

Save: Chairs and cookware/dishes

You don’t have to buy the whole set when it comes to your table. Instead, find lower-cost chairs that share the same theme or color scheme and save some cash. Cookware and dishes also aren’t worth the extra money unless you’re going to be doing some serious entertaining.

Need decorating cash?

Don’t forget: If you need more cash to cover the costs of decorating or furnishing your home, a cash-out refinance may be able to help.

Get in touch with an Embrace Home Loans team member today to discuss your options.