Buying your first home, whether it’s brand new or previously owned, is exhilarating, but can also be overwhelming. There are so many decisions to be made and the “to do” list seems endless—not to mention expensive. Purchases for your new home can add up quickly and seem like a mini mortgage! Keep costs low by decorating on a budget and putting your money where it counts. Try these budget-friendly ideas for sprucing up your new home without spending a small fortune decorating. 

Install new kitchen cabinets

Purchasing new kitchen cabinets may seem like a huge expense. However, there are affordable, high-quality options out there. Keep costs low and save a trip to the store with TheRTAStore’s Ready-to-Assemble (RTA) and Pre-Assembled kitchen cabinets, which cost 15-55% less than big box stores and are shipped directly to your door. New cabinets will make a huge impact in your kitchen, especially if the current ones are outdated. Choose from white kitchen cabinets, which can brighten your space, or timeless Shaker cabinets that look good in modern, traditional, or transitional kitchens. You can find out more about the Shaker style here. 

Add a fresh coat of paint

Make your new home your own with a fresh coat of paint on the walls and trim. Go for neutral colors that will go well with almost any décor to keep it budget-friendly. Check your local paint store for specials and deals to save a little more. Don’t stop at the walls. Update thrift store or current furniture with a fresh coat of paint to decorate on a budget. 

Update the bathroom

Let’s face it, the bathroom is not the most exciting place to decorate, but it’s a practical place to put your money. According to Consumer Reports, “42% of real estate professionals said the bathroom is one of the most important rooms of the home to have in good shape.” Even though you just bought the house, it’s always good to keep the future in mind. If you’re fixing up an older home, consider replacing the bathroom vanity and faucet for a more updated look. 

Change out hardware

Changing out kitchen and bathroom hardware can make a big impact in your new home while only making a small dent in your decorating budget. Even if your home is brand new, the kitchen hardware may be builder grade. Switch out outdated or builder grade hardware for new cabinet knobs and cabinet pulls to add your design personality to the kitchen. The same goes for the bathroom hardware. Add new knobs and pulls to your bathroom vanities for an easy upgrade. 

Find multi-purpose pieces

If you don’t have a lot of money to spend on decorating, make sure the big ticket items you’re buying are multi-functional. For example, a portable kitchen island or cart can serve as extra prep and storage space, a wine rack, bar cart and even as a buffet for entertaining! Move it from room to room as your needs and home change. 

Hello, homeowners! Whether you’re updating or renovating, TheRTAStore is the place to update your kitchen and bathrooms. Browse our wide selection of kitchen cabinets, kitchen accessories, bathroom vanities, and backsplash tile—plus much more! Need help with your kitchen design? TheRTAStore offers free kitchen design help online. Friendly kitchen design experts will work with you to create the perfect kitchen.