Maybe you’ve moved into an apartment or gotten a new home. Now it’s time to make it your own. However, after spending a lot of money on moving expenses and/or closing costs, you probably want to watch the budget while putting your own stamp on your new digs. Take a few tips from the pros and do things that add a lot of design impact but are easy on your wallet. Think about the following when remodeling or redecorating a room: paint, plants, personality.

Paint

By far, the least expensive way to change the character of a room without much money is to paint it. Obviously, if you live in an apartment, you will not be able to paint the walls without permission from the landlord, but you still can add some punch by painting your furniture instead.

Remodeling with paint is fun too. There are a number of different types of paints and painting techniques that can make you put your own individual stamp on a project. You can learn to stencil with paint, you can learn about ragging and sponging techniques or you can even use some of the fun metallic-looking or chalkboard-like paints for creative kids’ rooms. Paint can make even update old, dilapidated furniture. Just remember to prepare the surface so your new paint job looks brand new.

Plants

One of the fastest ways to make a new room homey is to add plants. They can be real plants or you can get artificial ones that require no maintenance except an occasional dusting. Most people are forced to get rid of all their plants when they move and it takes time for them to get new ones. If you don’t have the time or patience to take care of live plants, there are many cheap and beautiful artificial plants that can help liven up your space. A carefully chosen plant arrangement can add a focal point to any room.

Personality

Personality is one way to make a room feel more like home to you. If you have a fun and bubbly personality, why not take a chance and paint one wall a bright, cheery, yellow? Add some quirky touches that speak about who you are and your interests in your life. Add photos of the special people and pets in your life to a fireplace mantle. Hang a collage of photos. Put your private collections out for display. They not only offer you a way to decorate, but also can be great conversation starters for when you have visitors.

Some decorating styles can cost more than others. Ultra modern can be very chic and also very expensive. It all depends on if you have to have the designer look or are willing to compromise by getting the look with cheaper knock-offs. Check out stores that have good imitations at lower prices, like Wal-Mart and Target. Check out discount stores for brand name furniture at less than retail prices. If you keep an eye out for a few good anchor pieces, they can set the stage for the rest of the room.

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