Renter's Dilemma: Is investing in quality furniture and appliances worth it?
Choosing the right space is just one step in your home-building journey, even for renters. But unlike homeowners who can invest in permanent fixtures, renters face a unique challenge: should they invest in furniture for a temporary space?
Such was the case for a member of the Facebook community group Home Buddies, who has sought the advice of others. According to the poster, they're planning to buy high-quality items for the property they're eyeing that will only be turned over to them two to three years from now. Currently, they are living in a rental apartment that only covers the essentials—a refrigerator, air conditioner, mattress, and dining set.
Many Home Buddies members quickly came to their aid and offered helpful tips on investing in their house needs. If you're in a similar situation, PhilSTAR L!fe compiled some key considerations to guide you toward creating your ideal temporary home.
Save now, buy later
Some of the "virtual kapitbahays" advised that if the property you're moving into is still not completely yours, just save your pennies until you can truly call yourself the owner of the house.
"Ipunin niyo na lang muna ang pambili. Much better kapag ready na ang unit at pwede na kayo lumipat atsaka niyo na bilhin ang mga kailangan niyo. Mas makakapili kayo ng gusto niyo at bagay sa bahay niyo," one member commented.
Others urged that you should spend the time saving so you can have enough money for your ideal purchases.
"Invest the fund po muna sa high-yield savings, then kapag nakalipat na, saka kayo mamili ng gamit," one user wrote.
Your preference may change
Things come and go, and that includes your preferences for your furnishing.
Several kapitbahays noted it is not advisable to buy furniture and appliances if you don't have a fixed property yet as you may change your mind over time because your taste or the trends may change.
"Pwedeng may bagong design or technology pa kayong magustuhan in the near future. For now, save or invest lang, mas masaya mag-furniture shopping kapag may mga sukat na kayo ng paglalagyan," one member pointed out.
"Much better save and buy new ones when you transfer to your own home. Appliances and furniture will eventually diminish its quality and become out of fashion or trend," another shared.
Old vs. new
Another thing to keep in mind when buying furniture is that your purchases today grow old and accumulate damage as you wait for your property.
For some Home Buddies members, it's much better to be patient so that it's time for you to go shopping for home accessories and appliances, all of them will be brand-new.
"It's more satisfying if paglipat mo sa new house, bago din ang mga gamit. Pili ka ng mga gamit na babagay sa house, it's easier mag-interior decorate based on your type or motif. Make some measurements before buying things. Create a plan," one contributor reminded.
Another user also pointed out the warranty period of appliances, saying, "'Di mo pa nagagamit, tapos na warranty. What if may sira pala?"
Consider the moving process
If you decide to go all-out and buy everything you need now, you may find yourself in a predicament when it's finally time to move your things into your new space.
Many members from the group warned to avoid buying all of the home essentials you're eyeing as it would be difficult for you to transfer them from one place to another.
"Mahirap po maglipat kapag madami ang gamit. Saka na po mag-buy for the new place kapag lapit na ang move-in," one contributor wrote.
You'd also be putting your belongings at risk of getting damaged during the transfer process, as pointed out by another user who experienced it, "Mas madali po maglipat kapag hindi marami ang gamit. May chance din na masira o magka-dent ang ibang gamit habang naglilipat lalo na kung hindi maingat ang nagbubuhat at [nagmamaneho] sa sasakyan. Danas ko kasi 'yan."
The best places to buy your home needs
If you're settled and are ready to decorate your new space with furnishing but don't know where to hunt, the Home Buddies community has also taken the time to recommend some of the best places to buy ready-made furniture.
Take your pick here:
- IKEA- It would be a crime to go furniture shopping without going to the highly popular IKEA store. Here, you can find a vast selection of quality furniture and appliances ranging from beds, sofas, bookcases, wardrobes, decors, and more.
- Mandaue Foam- Mandaue Foam is another household name in the Philippines for home furnishing products, specializing in foam and mattresses but has since expanded its line to include pillows, sofas, dining tables, bed frames, and other small home items.
- Muji- If you're into minimalism, look no further than Muji as the Japanese retail company excels in offering the "less is more" aesthetic in their furniture and other home essentials.
- Our Home- Another place where you can shop is Our Home, which is home to a wide array of modern and contemporary furniture, home decor, and accessories curated to help you achieve your dream space.
- Furniture Source- Furniture Source carries a wide range of items, from large furniture such as beds, cabinets, and tables, to small accessories like table lamps, plants, and picture frames to cater to your design needs.
Once you have checked everything in your list of home needs, it's safe to say that your living room is your top priority when it comes to furnishing. If you need tips on how to elevate this part of your house, head over to the article Upgrade Your Living Room With These Nifty Design Hacks for some fresh decor ideas.
Watch out for our Home Buddies features every Saturday.