Congratulations on becoming a first-time homeowner! This is an exciting milestone in your life, and with it comes the opportunity to create a space that truly reflects your personal style. However, the process of decorating your new abode can be overwhelming, especially if you are doing it for the first time. To help you achieve your dream home, here are five steps to achieve first-home style:

Assess what you already have
When moving into a new home, it’s tempting to buy new furnishings to make it feel more like your own. However, before you hit the shops, take the time to assess what you already have. You might be surprised at what can be repurposed or rearranged to create a fresh look. Organize and move in with what you have, placing furniture in rooms and finding places for items that go in closets, cupboards and drawers.

Plan each room on paper
Before making any purchases, take the time to measure each room and create a plan on paper. Explore options on graph paper and consider using masking tape to mark out dimensions on the floor or walls of any furnishing you might purchase. This will ensure the pieces will work within your available space. A well-planned room can save you time and money in the long run.

Make necessary changes
As a homeowner, you have the freedom to make changes to your home that suit your personal style. Don’t be afraid to remove unwanted elements, such as outdated lighting fixtures or wallpaper borders, and replace them with something that reflects your taste. Consider any changes you would like to make to flooring, as well. Carpeting from the previous owners may be crying out for replacement. Research and price out replacement options with consideration to available products, the temperature underfoot, and any need for noise reduction.

Set a budget
Creating your dream home can be costly, so it’s important to set a budget. Apply a realistic price tag to your wish list and establish a time-frame to achieve your goals. Do things one step at a time and keep a tally against your budget as you go. This will help you to avoid overspending and ensure that your home decorating project remains financially feasible.

Take your time
Remember that creating a comfortable and functional home that reflects your personal style will develop over time. Take your time to let your ideas evolve and don’t feel like you have to rush to complete everything at once. Enjoy the process of making your new house feel like a home.

In conclusion, achieving first-home style can seem daunting at first, but with careful planning, a realistic budget, and a little patience, you can create a space that you love. By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to creating a comfortable and functional home that reflects your personal style.