Making your new place fresh for fall
While the end of the semester brings warmer temperatures and the promise that summer is around the corner (even if it is just the summer semester), it also brings new beginnings for many students. Whether you’re just finishing first year, or finally making the move away from university life, there are a variety of expenses that can be unforeseen. However, there are a number of life hacks for moving that can save you some cash.
If you’re moving into your first house and don’t have a lot of furniture, consider checking out sites like Kijiji or university Facebook groups for grads who are looking to get rid of their stuff. You can get some gently used items for relatively cheap prices, and sometimes even for free.
If you’re still in town at the end of the month, take a walk or drive around student neighbourhoods – often, people will leave perfectly good furniture lying on the side of the road. I’ve furnished most of my room this way, a friend of mine once picked up a nice lamp. Do keep in mind that you want to avoid things with fabrics or things that can carry bugs, and make sure to thoroughly clean your items when you take them home.
If you’re moving back to your parents’ house or even your own place that is a considerable distance from Guelph, you can make some extra beer money by selling the things you don’t need on sites like those listed above. If you expect to be travelling after school, you can avoid having to move and store large, clunky items by selling them for a reasonable fee. When you move out on your own, you may want to have a different décor or theme in your home, and getting rid of your student furniture is one step in moving toward adulthood.
At the same time, if you have any sort of student or personal debt, make sure you are able to move into your new home with minimal upfront costs. Keeping your student furniture for a couple of years while you pay off your debt is more important that having that career-chic look in your apartment where you can’t afford to entertain.
Regardless of whether you’re moving into your first student home or your first adult home, make a list of everything you expect to need. Consult friends and family on things they think are beneficial to have, versus something that may be a luxury item.
Once you create your list, be sure to keep an eye out for sales over the summer (and into the school year). Make sure to utilize the great deals you can find on eBay. Often, planning out your new home purchases is just as satisfying as actually buying them.
Having your own place is really just an opportunity to get handy around the home. Want to spruce up your new bedroom? Time to learn to paint. Often, stores like Home Depot will run free do-it-yourself demos where you can learn how to do things like paint your room or build your own bookshelf. Just be aware that when you go to these demos, their intention is to sell you products, so know what you truly need to complete the project.
Spring and summer are also prime months for garage sales. Wake up early on Saturday and Sunday mornings to take a stroll around your area for hidden gems. Make sure that if you’re going to a garage sale, you only buy the things that you can immediately think of a use for and that you absolutely love. Similar to shopping for clothes, you’re always going to like something the most when you’re about to buy it. Keep in mind your décor theme and personal preferences to ensure your space is all about you.