Furnishing a home can sometimes be an expensive undertaking. But there are times when it may be necessary to furnish a home with a limited budget. These 9 resources will show you where to begin your search for home furnishings if you are limited by a decorating budget.

You are a newlywed and have just purchased or rented your first home. Or maybe you are a college student sharing an off-campus rental property with other students – or you have just moved out of your parent’s home into your first home or apartment. These are a few of the scenarios in which furnishing your new home may have to be done on a budget. Is it possible? Here are a few resources that you may find available to help you furnish your new home or refurnish your existing home on a budget.

Consignment Stores – These are fast becoming a way for people to find bargains on everything from clothing to furniture. Consignment stores offer a chance for people to sell their old furniture and find new furniture when redecorating a home and are a great resource for those who are furnishing their first home. These stores offer a unique selection of furniture and the selection changes frequently, so be sure to visit the store often during your search for new furnishings. Many owners of consignment stores keep customer lists for customers who are looking for specific items and will notify you should the item you are searching for becomes available. Along the same vein, junk stores and thrift stores are another valuable resource for finding one-of-a-kind pieces at prices well within your budget.

Clearance Outlets – Most major furniture chains and department stores have an outlet center. These outlet centers offer special sale prices for furniture that may be scratched or second-quality, or repossessed furniture. Prices are often reduced every 30 or 60 days until the items are sold, so these clearance outlets can make a wonderful resource for furnishing your home on a budget.

Scratch and Dent – Another great resource in most furniture stores is the scratch and dent room or corner. Most stores have an area specifically set up for furniture that has been damaged and offer these items at greatly reduced prices. In many cases, the imperfections are located in areas that may not even be noticeable to anyone other than you. You will also find things like cork flooring and vinyl sheet flooring.

Model Home Sales – Have you ever noticed the beautifully furnished model homes when a new subdivision is being constructed? Have you ever wondered what happens to the furniture when all of the homes have been sold, including the model home? Most often, the contractor holds a sale and sells the furniture once the model home has been sold. This is a great resource for finding matching sets at greatly reduced prices.

Showroom Samples or Display Models – Many design centers and furniture stores periodically sell pieces that have been used in the showroom or displayed in the store. This is a great way to purchase new furniture at reduced prices.

Swap or Trade – One of the most inexpensive ways to refurnish your home is by swapping or trading with friends or family. Maybe you have a friend that has a sofa that is too large for her home and you have a loveseat or smaller sofa – the perfect solution for both of you may be trading, either for keeps or until further notice.

One man’s trash is another man’s treasure – How often have you heard that statement? Especially in resort areas where redecorating is done frequently, this can be a wonderful way to find interesting pieces of furniture for your home. Discarded furniture can be found in garbage bins, sitting on the side of the street awaiting pickup or at yard sales where the piece may be given away. If you are willing to refurbish or refinish items, this can be a wonderful way to find furniture at no cost other the cost of the supplies to refurbish and the time that you spend.

Auctions – Estate sales and auctions are great ways to find antique furniture and other unique pieces at great prices. Most of these sales and auctions are listed in local newspapers or announced on local radio programs.

Garage Sales and Flea Markets – For many people who live on a budget, searching garage or yard sales and flea markets is a great way to find many things at cheap prices. Often, flea markets are a veritable treasure trove of unique furnishings, some in great condition and others that may need restoration.