It’s not a huge secret that most vacation homes fall into the category of “pricey.” But even if you’ve spent a pretty penny on your vacation rental investment, you don’t have to break the bank when it comes to furnishing your new place.
The fact is, as a vacation rental homeowner, you’re running a business. As such, you need to keep costs low in order to ensure that you can turn a profit. And there are many ways you can find cheap furniture that not only offers a sense of style but also offers quality as well.
It’s not uncommon for most new vacation home investors to go out and try to furnish their new place with some of the best furniture that money can buy. But if you really think about it, this isn’t the best investment strategy for a vacation rental.
You have to remember that your furniture is going to get used and worn rather quickly by having a large number of guests staying at your rental over time. And the following post will offer a few business-minded ideas when it comes to furnishing your vacation home.
Local Listings
When people think of where to find cheap furniture in 2021, most people immediately think of shopping online on sites like Wayfair or Amazon. And though you can find some stylish pieces at affordable prices at these sites, you could probably save a lot more by looking at local listings.
Many communities across the country have neighborhood websites where families which have moved have left things behind for sale, or sometimes for free. So this is really the first place you should look.
Local listings may offer furnishings such as full bedroom sets, full living room sets, lamps, end tables, chairs, kitchen appliances, and the like all for a fraction of the cost that you’d probably pay if you were to buy these items brand new.
Remember, no matter what you choose, people who search for rentals also look for elements of style when it comes to furnishings. So keep this in mind.
Second-Hand Stores
Just like local listings, second-hand stores also have a great selection of furniture and furnishings that you likely won’t find anywhere else. And many of these items are often classified as antiques.
Most people who own second-hand stores receive a large number of their items from donations, or others selling their belongings. And some second-hand stores are owned by “pickers” who travel the region looking for great deals that they can flip and profit from.
As such, you’re sure to come across some unique items when you shop at a second-hand store, much like you would at an antique shop.
Second-hand stores are perhaps best for finding interesting decorations and other items that you’re likely not going to be able to find in most modern stores. And you never know what you might find or how valuable a piece really is.
Garage Sales
There’s nothing like a good, old-fashioned “garage sailing” trip to find some interesting and often cheap pieces of furniture along with other nicknacks and furnishings. And you may even have several in your own neighborhood as well.
Garage sales are often held throughout the year, and usually at random. But believe it or not, more garage sales occur during the springtime when many Americans do their spring cleaning.
Garage sales are still bound to the traditional barter system. And even though you might find a steal or two when you’re out on the hunt, you still have the option of negotiating a better price if you feel the need to try and talk down the owner for a few dollars.
It’s also good to note that garage sales might also be listed on a local community website as well.
At the end of the day, furnishing your new vacation rental with amazing furniture doesn’t have to squeeze every last dime out of your bank account. And as long as you look around at your local resources, you’ll be able to affordably furnish your new rental.
