(Image courtesy Elevate Mortgage)

Buying, moving into, and furnishing a new home is a big adventure. It’s an adventure that can be challenging and rewarding, yet also a little overwhelming if you don’t take each aspect of the adventure one step at a time.

Step 1 — Assess

Your first temptation when faced with a new house full of blank walls might be to start collecting paint swatches from the hardware store, but resist the urge. There’s so much more than can be done for so much less work. As you look at the room, note the following:

• Windows
• Light fixtures
• Ceiling height
• Entry point(s)

Ask yourself: “How do I want this room to feel?” “Is there a piece of statement furniture/wall art that must be included?” Then head to Pinterest and scroll until you find several ideas that work with your vision. This will be your springboard to help you move forward.

Step 2 — Budget

Furnishing an entire home can be daunting. To avoid overspending, you should evaluate your expenses based on your new house payment, anticipated utilities, insurance and all other monthly expenses. Once you determine a shopping budget for furniture and appliances, you’ll want to prioritize your decorating plans. It isn't necessary to furnish the entire house at one time. You could delay furnishing a guest room and focus on the other bedrooms first. If you have an eat-in kitchen, you might want to delay decorating the dining room.

Step 3 — Get help

An interior designer can help you find affordable ways to furnish your home, so that it is attractive, functional and a reflection of your style and personality. If you prefer decorating on your own, there are some things to keep in mind. Modern furnishings will give your home an element of sophistication. Modern styles are ideal for small rooms and also work well in spacious open floor plans. Instead of purchasing a lot of small decorative accessories that can create a cluttered appearance, your interior design will be more impressive if you limit your accessories. Modern wall art and sculptures can be used as a focal point or statement piece in a room. Modern lamps, accent chairs, and tables can serve as artistic elements in the overall design of a room.

Furnishing a home should be a enjoyable experience and not a project you rush through. Affordability, durability, and personal design taste should be top considerations.