Hi Friends,
These step-by-step budget guide will help you set up and stick to a decorating budget — without blowing it.
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Plan for Success
What's the dirtiest word in decorating? That's right: budget. Whether you have just a few $100 for a room makeover or tens of thousands, you'll need to plan carefully and make tough choices to meet your bottom line. But budgeting isn't all bad news: "Decorating on a budget isn't about being cheap, it's about being smart — making informed decisions and getting the best value for your money," says interior designer Kristan Cunningham.
Make a Design Wishlist
Give your imagination free reign. "Initially, at least, pretend that money is no object," says interior designer Angelo Surmelis. Write down everything you'd like to do and buy. Be specific: Rather than just listing "more kitchen storage," think about whether that means adding more cabinets or just a freestanding shelf. Although you're indulging in a bit of fantasy, don't forget to include the practical stuff that needs to be fixed or upgraded. Your fabulous new kitchen won't look so fabulous if you don't address structural issues like cracked plaster walls or uneven flooring.
Shop Around Before Hiring a Pro
"Determine how much work you'll need to hire out, too," Cunningham says. If you're bringing in skilled trades people to paint, hang wallpaper, run wires for new lights, install flooring and so on, get at least three written estimates for each job before finalizing your budget.
Splurge on Important Features
"Spend the big money on the 'wow' items — the things you first notice in a space," says designer Angelo Surmelis. Consider big splurges for the things you'll use every day; are hard to change; hold their value over time; or add value to your home. That could be new flooring, custom kitchen cabinets or other permanent components, well-made furniture or investment art. Don't feel guilty about splurging on the things that will "make" your room — just make sure they're worth what you're spending and will serve you well over time.
Budget for DIY Supplies
Are you a rookie do-it-yourselfer? Then don't forget to budget for a few trips to the hardware store. Paint, for instance, is relatively inexpensive, and painting itself isn't terribly difficult — but once you buy the stepladder, rollers, brushes, paint trays, extending poles, painters' tape, tarps and other tools you'll need to do the job right, that pro painter's bid may suddenly look a lot more reasonable.
Enjoy, but remember to keep the budget in mind...
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Live well,
Yvonne
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