Once you’ve officially bought your first house, the next step is decorating. The problem? After you’ve put all or most of your savings into a down payment, your decorating budget is bound to be tight. So how can you style your new space to make it feel like home? Are there affordable ways to decorate that don’t look cheap? The answer is yes — and here are some practical tips to get you going:

• Think like a minimalist — Minimalism is trendy right now, which is to your advantage as a new homeowner. It relieves the pressure of thinking you need to fill every nook and cranny of your space. Fewer furnishings means less money spent, so embrace the minimalist trend. This decorating style also allows you to maximize the money you do spend — buying fewer pieces means you can invest in ones you really love.
• Don’t underestimate fresh paint — Few things can change the look and feel of a room as quickly as freshly painted walls. Even better, paint is relatively inexpensive. So choose some new shades and get to work! New wall colors are a great way to personalize a new home.
• Shop outside the big box — Buying brand-new items from retailers is not the only way to shop for furniture. Explore the possibilities at thrift stores, estate sales, clearance sections and local online marketplaces. You may be surprised at the quality and savings that are available.

Remember: You’re not required to transform your new home overnight. Give yourself permission to take your time and enjoy the process. For more information on how to decorate on a budget, take a look at the attached resource.

Author bio: Shelley Alexanian is spokesperson for Alexanian, one of Canada’s most successful and versatile full-service flooring and window covering businesses. With several years of industry experience, Shelley is skilled at creating beautiful designs under a variety of budgets — she believes design is at the heart of everything.