Perhaps you have been considering buying a student home, but the daunting task of furnishing has left you concerned. With the variety of apartments that offer furniture packages, your decision might be difficult. As a real estate broker, student homeowner, and parent of a student, let me assure you that I want the best, and most reasonably priced option for my daughter. I made the decision to purchase a student home knowing it would save money in all aspects, including furniture. With furniture options or services being around $100 a month ($1200/year), you could easily be throwing away $3600 on furniture alone if your child lives in a furnished apartment for three years. Thankfully, there are a variety of ways to furnish a home that will provide savings now and in the future. Below are several local ways that I have personally furnished my daughter’s home. Unlike renting furniture, these options provide furniture she can use here in college, but also after she graduates.
1. Quality Used Furniture (or other resale stores)
This is a great place to find furniture of all sorts. Personally, I think this store has excellent pricing on kitchen tables, chairs, bar stools, and more. This past August, I bought my daughter a table and four chairs for around $75. A lot of the furniture Quality Used Furniture has in stock can be left as is, or with a little paint or stain, can be a completely renovated custom piece. Location: 2039 Harvey Mitchell Parkway S.
2. Other Students
May and August are move out times for students. With many students graduating, there always seems to be those looking to get rid of furniture. Have your student check with organizations or older friends. My daughter managed to get an entire hutch for $25 from a friend who was graduating and looking to sell a few pieces fast.
3. Check Your Attic
If your family is anything like mine, your attic is full of used furniture. Maybe it is grandpa’s old army trunk, the first couch you bought as a newlywed, or that side table that just doesn’t go with your house anymore. The attic was the first place I looked when trying to find furniture for my daughter. She and I had a great time re-painting some old pieces. You may surprise yourself with all the wonderful finds in your own attic. It also never hurts to ask the extended family. Maybe they have moved, downsized, or have a very crowded attic.
4. Craigslist
With the turnover of students each May and August, Craigslist is a useful source. Electronics such as TVs can be found at just over $100 for a full functioning, large, flat screen option! Why waste money on a brand new TV when you can get a nearly new one for hundreds of dollars off?
As you can see, there are a variety of ways to obtain furniture and electronics for your student. In addition to these, local antique shops or even furniture websites are great places to find furniture savings. Remember the $1200/year you could spend renting furniture? With one, two, or three roommates, it is safe to say you can furnish an entire house while each staying well under $1200. Remember, this furniture isn’t rented; it can be used post graduation, or even for an additional child! Don’t let the task of furnishing a house scare you away from buying. Put your money to good use this semester by purchasing a home and saving on rent and expensive furniture packages.
