How to Furnish Your Short-Term Rental on a Budget

Setting up a short-term rental (STR) can be an exciting yet challenging venture. A well-furnished rental can attract more guests, receive better reviews, and ultimately generate higher revenue.

However, furnishing a rental can quickly become expensive, especially for new hosts on a budget.

The good news is that you don’t have to break the bank to create a welcoming and stylish space.

With strategic planning, smart shopping, and creative upcycling, you can furnish your STR affordably while maintaining comfort and aesthetics.

This guide will walk you through cost-effective strategies to furnish your short-term rental without overspending.

1. Plan Before You Buy

Before making any purchases, it’s essential to plan your furnishing process carefully. This helps you avoid impulse buys and focus on essentials.

Set a Realistic Budget

Determine how much you can afford to spend.
Allocate funds to each category: furniture, decor, appliances, and bedding.
Plan for future expenses like replacements and maintenance.

Identify Your Target Audience

Business travellers may prefer a professional setup with a desk and ergonomic chair.
Tourists and families may prioritize comfortable seating and kid-friendly features.
Budget travellers may appreciate functional, no-frills spaces.

Create a Checklist

Essential furniture (bed, couch, dining table, etc.)
Kitchen basics (plates, cutlery, microwave, kettle)
Bathroom necessities (towels, toiletries, shower curtain)
Decorative elements (wall art, rugs, curtains)

Planning ahead will help you stick to your budget and prioritize what’s necessary.

2. Buy Secondhand and Discounted Items

Furnishing your rental doesn’t mean buying everything brand new. There are numerous places to find high-quality, secondhand, and discounted items.

Where to Shop for Budget-Friendly Furniture

Thrift stores and flea markets: Find unique and affordable furniture.
Online marketplaces: Check Jiji, Facebook Marketplace, and OLX for great deals.
Warehouse sales and clearance events: Retailers often offer massive discounts on display items and overstock.
Refurbished and factory seconds: Many stores sell slightly damaged or returned items at lower prices.

Buying secondhand can save you up to 70% compared to retail prices.

Read This: How to Communicate Effectively with Short-Term Rental Guests

3. Invest in Multi-Purpose Furniture

Multi-functional furniture can help you save money and maximize space.

Smart Furniture Choices

Sofa beds: Acts as a couch during the day and a bed at night.
Storage ottomans: Provides extra seating and hidden storage.
Foldable tables and chairs: Perfect for small spaces and flexible layouts.
Bunk beds or trundle beds: Ideal for rentals that cater to families.

Investing in multi-purpose furniture reduces the number of items you need to buy.

4. Affordable Bedding and Soft Furnishings

Comfortable bedding is essential for positive guest experiences, but it doesn’t have to be expensive.

Cost-Effective Bedding Solutions

Buy in bulk: Wholesale stores often offer discounts on bedding sets.
Use neutral colours: White or beige sheets are affordable, easy to replace, and universally appealing.
Look for high-thread-count sheets on sale: Guests appreciate soft and durable bedding.

Soft furnishings like rugs, curtains, and throw pillows add warmth without significant expense. Stick to budget-friendly stores or buy secondhand where possible.

5. Budget-Friendly Kitchen and Dining Essentials

A well-stocked kitchen is a big selling point for short-term rentals.

How to Save on Kitchen Items

Buy durable yet affordable kitchenware: Stick to stainless steel pots and pans.
Look for secondhand restaurant supplies: Some restaurants sell extra or used kitchen equipment.
Invest in essential appliances only: A kettle, microwave, and fridge are must-haves. Consider an air fryer or blender based on your target guests.
Shop at discount stores: Get affordable plates, cups, and cutlery at budget stores or supermarkets.

6. Decor and Aesthetic on a Budget

Decorating your rental doesn’t have to cost a fortune.

Affordable Decorating Ideas

Paint the walls: A fresh coat of paint is one of the cheapest ways to refresh a space.
Use peel-and-stick wallpaper: Great for creating feature walls without expensive renovations.
DIY artwork: Frame prints from free art sources online or create your own.
Thrift for decor items: Mirrors, lamps, and vases are often cheap secondhand.
Add plants: Artificial or real, they bring life to a space.

Simple decor can make your rental feel stylish and welcoming.

7. Smart Tech and Budget-Friendly Appliances

Investing in smart, budget-friendly tech can make your rental more appealing.

Essential Affordable Tech Upgrades

Smart locks: Keyless entry saves you the hassle of lost keys.
Energy-efficient LED bulbs: Reduces electricity costs over time.
Streaming devices: A budget smart TV or Roku stick enhances the guest experience.
USB charging stations: Convenient for guests and inexpensive to install.

These small investments can improve your rental’s functionality and increase guest satisfaction.

8. Maximize Space with Storage Solutions

Storage is crucial in small rental spaces.

Budget Storage Ideas

Under-bed storage bins: Utilize unused space.
Wall-mounted shelves: Inexpensive and space-saving.
Multi-purpose furniture: Couches and beds with built-in storage.
Over-the-door organizers: Great for storing toiletries and accessories.

Organized spaces make your rental look bigger and more inviting.

9. DIY and Upcycling Projects

If you enjoy DIY projects, you can create beautiful, cost-effective furnishings.

Easy Upcycling Ideas

Refurbish old furniture: A coat of paint or new knobs can make a piece look brand new.
Make custom headboards: Use reclaimed wood or fabric.
Create unique wall art: Frame fabric samples or make abstract paintings.
Repurpose crates as shelves: Sturdy and stylish storage solutions.

DIY projects can add personality to your rental while saving money.

Adding thoughtful, budget-friendly touches can improve guest reviews.

Affordable Ways to Enhance the Guest Experience

Welcome basket: A simple snack basket or handwritten note adds warmth.
Basic toiletries: Provide soap, shampoo, and conditioner.
Local guidebook: Print a simple guide with local attractions and dining spots.
Cleanliness is key: A well-maintained space is more important than luxury furnishings.

Focusing on guest experience rather than expensive furnishings ensures better ratings and repeat bookings.

See This: The Best Cleaning Products for Short-Term Rentals

Conclusion

Furnishing a short-term rental on a budget is completely achievable with smart planning, secondhand shopping, and creative DIY solutions.

Prioritize essential items, invest in multi-functional furniture, and incorporate budget-friendly decor to create a welcoming and stylish space.

By following these cost-saving strategies, you can furnish your STR affordably while providing an excellent experience for guests.

Do you have additional budget-friendly furnishing tips? Share them in the comments.