Furnishing your first place for less

You don't need a fully furnished apartment on day one. Start with what you use daily and add slowly.

Ideas

• Start with a bed, a few kitchen basics and a place to sit
• Ask family and friends what they're getting rid of
• Look at second-hand shops and local buy-nothing groups
• Check second-hand upholstered furniture carefully for pests
• Skip store financing for furniture unless you're sure you can pay it off in time

General educational information. Tenant laws vary by state and city. Smart Penny Path isn't paid by any landlord, listing site, mover or insurer.