Save Space By Properly Hanging Your TV

Hanging your TV will save space, but make sure you hang it properly.

Hanging your TV will save space, but make sure you hang it properly.

With post-holiday season sales (and the Super Bowl) on the horizon, now is a great time to consider purchasing a new TV! Whether you find a deal online, or receive one as a holiday gift, you’ll want to unpack and start watching your new television as soon as possible.

Not only do flat panel televisions look great, their thin profiles make them relatively easy to mount on a wall. Hanging your TV will save space and keep it well out of a baby or toddler’s reach in case you need to baby-proof your entertainment area.

Here are a few tips to properly hang your new TV in your apartment and hide those pesky wires.

Step 1: Unpack
Unpack your television, including cables, brackets, remotes and all related documents. Keep the television in its protective wrapping, and place it face down on a flat surface covered with a blanket.

Step 2: Attach Brackets
Attach the brackets to the back of the TV with the hardware supplied. Be sure to select the right size screws for the holes on the TV.

Step 3: Mark your TV’s Location
When selecting a location to hang your TV, remember that televisions are best viewed at or just above eye level. In order to hide the cables, choose a location where wires can easily connect from their source to the television. When you’ve chosen your location, draw an outline of the television on the wall with a pencil and a straight edge. You’ll also want to hang your TV near a power outlet. For a cleaner look, install a new outlet directly behind the TV.

Step 4: Attach the Wall Mount
If a wall mount did not come with your TV, be sure to purchase one that will bear the full weight of your television. Consider an articulated wall mount if you want to swivel the TV, or extend it from the wall.
To keep your television secure, install your wall mount directly into a pair of studs in the wall. If the screws are planted into drywall alone, your television is more likely to fall off and break. Using a stud finder, locate two studs within the television outline. Mark the outside edges and the centers of each stud. Use a level to make sure the wall mount is aligned evenly on the wall, and then drill the holes. Finally, attach the mount to the wall using the included hardware.

Step 5: Hide the Wires
Cut a hole in the wall just below the bracket to feed the wires through using a drill and utility knife. Be sure you know the diameter of the hole you need (the size will change depending on how many items you are hooking up and how many cords you have) so that the hole is completely obstructed by the TV once it is hung.

Feed the cable directly through the bracket and the wall hole.

Cut another hole where the cables need to exit the wall. You may wish to conceal the exit point later with a plant or piece of furniture.

Attach all cables to the TV and feed them through the first hole you cut as you move the TV closer to the wall and mount it. Ask a friend to help you lift the TV and guide the cables. Once the TV is mounted onto the wall portion of the bracket, the cables should be visible through the second hole. Reach in with your finger and pull out the cables. Connect them to a power source, and you’re ready to watch your new TV!

Photo credit: iStockphoto/Roob

Where to Find Nice, Cheap Furniture in Tacoma

If you're in the market for new furniture in Tacoma, you're in luck. Check out our suggestions to find nice, cheap furniture.

If you’re in the market for new furniture in Tacoma, you’re in luck. Check out our suggestions to find nice, cheap furniture.

From vintage to modern, and from neutral to bold colors, Tacoma’s furniture stores offer a wide selection of furniture, rugs and accessories, as well as some of the most knowledgeable salespeople around. Whether you’re getting settled in your new Tacoma apartment, looking for more grown-up furniture or just adding to the collection, Tacoma has a large selection of furniture stores within reach. Read on for our picks on where you find nice, cheap furniture in this charming Pacific Northwest city.

Harkness Furniture
One of the first things you’ll notice about Harkness Furniture is its giant retro neon sign out front. It’s become a fixture on South Tacoma Way. The next thing you’ll notice is its large furniture selection. The items are offered at great sales prices, and the quality of the selection is second to none. They don’t carry low-end items here, and the staff allows you to roam the two levels at your leisure and will answer questions as needed. Keep an eye out for storewide sales.
Where: 6612 S. Tacoma Way, Tacoma, WA 98409

Modality Furniture
This downtown furniture boutique offers a great selection of furniture, whether you’re in the market for a new couch, chair or table. Their floor models give you an idea to help you decide what you want to furnish your space. Check out the selection and customize your choices to have the perfect addition to your living room, dining room or kitchen. And if you need an accent rug, they have those, too.
Where: 821 Pacific Ave., Tacoma, WA 98402

Hope Furnishings
This is the retail department store of the NW Furniture Bank, an organization which helps restore hope, dignity and stability in the community by recycling donated furniture to people in need. Hope Furnishings is located in the Tacoma Dome district, and it offers gently used furnishings, name brand floor samples and vintage furnishings at a great value. The revenues generated from Hope Furnishings are then used to purchase high demand items for the furniture bank clients.
Where: 117 Puyallup Ave., Tacoma, WA 98421

The Old Cannery
This family-owned store has been serving the Pacific Northwest for more than 25 years. The Old Cannery offers high quality durable furniture, from beds to dressers, and from desks to bookcases. The employees are knowledgeable about their inventory, and they are willing to work with you to make sure the customer goes home with only the best. And while you’re shopping, grab some coffee or fudge at their in-house cafe.
Where: 13608 Valley Ave. E., Sumner, WA 98390

Preuit Estate Furnishings
Located in beautiful Gig Harbor, this family-owned store offers quality home furnishings on consignment. Whether you’re looking for furniture, lighting, mirrors, rugs or accessories, Preuit Estate Furnishings has a large selection for you. The inventory turns over weekly, but their website keeps you up to date on what’s in store.
Where: 3308 Uddenberg Lane, Gig Harbor, WA 98335

Photo Credit: iStockphoto/spxChrome

Where to Find Nice, Cheap Furniture in Providence

Providence is chock full of great stores where you can find nice, cheap furniture.

Providence is chock full of great stores where you can find nice, cheap furniture.

As the capital and most populous city of the state of Rhode Island, Providence offers its residents a charming mix of New England culture along with all the excitement and amenities of larger city life. Known as “The Creative Capital,” it’s no wonder that its streets are filled with a number of unique shops and boutiques. If you’re in the market for some furniture to fill your new apartment, or are just looking for a décor overhaul in your current one, here are our suggestions for the best places to find nice, cheap furniture in Providence.

Benefit Street Antiques
Whether you walk into the store knowing exactly what you’re looking for or are just in the mood for some browsing, Benefit Street Antiques provides a great customer experience. Housed in a unique, light-filled space, the owners thoughtfully organize each piece in this quintessential antiques shop, and everything is clearly marked with the price.
Where: 243 Wickenden St., Providence, RI 02903

BD’s Discount
This large discount furniture outlet might not be the prettiest around, but it offers the most bang for your buck if you’re looking for sturdy, quality furniture for rock bottom prices. This place is massive, so it helps to have some idea of what you’re looking for before you walk in. If you stick to a plan, you might just walk away with some great furniture for your apartment for cheap.
Where: 699 Hartford Ave., Providence, RI 02909

Rocket To Mars
Rocket To Mars is a quirky, retro-themed consignment shop in the trendy Federal Hill neighborhood of Providence. In addition to furniture, you’ll also find unique, one-of-a-kind home décor pieces to make your apartment feel more like a home. Things are a little bit more expensive compared to other antique or consignment shops in the city, but you’re paying for high quality, certifiably vintage and retro merchandise.
Where: 144 Broadway, Providence, RI 02903

Savers
This standard thrift store in East Providence is packed to the gills with nice, cheap furniture, as well as other goods like clothing, home décor items and accessories. If you’re a loyal customer, you can earn a rewards card, where every $5 purchase allows you to fill up your card and save up to 30 percent on your next purchase.
Where: 1925 Pawtucket Ave., East Providence, RI 02906

Oop
If you prefer your furniture to be on the more artsy side, Oop is the store for you. This spirited boutique carries novelty gifts, jewelry, home décor, furniture and other pieces made in small quantities and designed by local artists and designers, but without the hefty price tags of other antique shops.
Where: 220 Westminster St., Providence, RI 02903

Photo credit: iStockphoto/Spooky2006

Where to Find Nice, Cheap Furniture in Lafayette

Located 63 miles northwest of Indianapolis, Lafayette, Ind. offers residents all the charm of a smaller town while offering access to big city entertainment and amenities. Whether you have just moved to and are apartment searching in this city known to locals as the “Star City,” or are looking for a décor overhaul in your current apartment, there are a number of stores in Lafayette where you can find quality furniture at great prices.

De’Ja’vu

De’Ja’vu owners Rick Carter and Ben Rennick roam auctions across the United States in search of that perfect piece of furniture. Their store is packed full of quality, unique new and used furniture, as well as décor items and collectibles. The sales associates are knowledgeable and helpful, and the store is clean and brightly lit.

Where: 2880 Old U.S. 231 S., Lafayette, IN 47909

Star Furniture

Star Furniture sells quality furniture brands like Ashley Furniture and American Sleep for a fraction of the price. You can find anything from living room, bedroom, dining room and home office furniture to accent tables and décor pieces. They offer same-day pickup and delivery, with financing and payment options to suit any budget. And if you’re not sure how to decorate your place, an on-site interior design professional is available to answer any questions.

Where: 3812 Fortune Drive, Lafayette, IN 47905

Hot House Market

Hot House Market sells an eclectic mix of clothing, shoes, accessories, furniture and décor inspired by the latest fashion trends, kitschy 1940s and ‘50s décor and colorful bohemian fabrics from the ‘60s and ‘70s, all available at reasonable prices. In addition to a home store in Lafayette, owners Doug and Carrie Rosen sell their quirky wares in Brooklyn and Chicago.

Where: 900 Kossuth St., Lafayette, IN 47905

Lehnen Furniture Inc.

Formed in 1947 by John E. Lehnen, a former radar technician in the U.S. Navy who had ambitions to open up his own store selling radios, televisions and appliances, Lehnen Furniture has grown from a 24 by 60 foot appliance showroom to one of the largest discount furniture stores in the Lafayette area, stretching out over 30,000 square feet.

Where: 3210 Builder Drive, Lafayette, IN 47909

Kittle’s Furniture

Family owned and operated since its opening in 1932, Kittle’s Furniture has store locations across Indiana and Ohio, conveniently offering a wide variety of styles and a large selection of furniture for the living room, bedroom, dining room, den and home office, as well as mattresses.

Where: 2659 Maple Point Drive, Lafayette, IN 47905

Photo credit: iStockphoto/zeljkosantrac

Where to Find Nice, Cheap Furniture in San Diego

If you’re in the market for nice, cheap furniture in San Diego, there are a number of stores that have what you need.

Whether you are moving to San Diego from across the country, are preparing to move into a new apartment or just want to change up the décor in your current place, it’s possible to furnish your home with great décor pieces without breaking your budget. As the eighth-largest city in the United States and the second-largest city in California, San Diego, nicknamed “America’s Finest City,” is full of great stores and boutiques where you can get your furniture fix for pennies. Read on to find our list of the best places to find nice, cheap furniture in San Diego.

Real Deal Furniture & Mattress

The name says it all. What sets Real Deal Furniture & Mattress apart from other discount furniture retailers in the San Diego area is its knowledgeable staff and commitment to quality customer service. The furniture selection can’t be beat, and if you’re not sure where to start, simply ask any sales professional. Unlike a lot of larger discount furniture stores, you won’t get pushy suggestions, but you will be offered informed opinions tailored to your preferences and needs.

Where: 8841 Clairemont Mesa Blvd., San Diego, CA 92123

Chester’s Furniture

Tucked away in San Diego’s North Park neighborhood, Chester’s Furniture has been beloved by all for over 90 years for its low prices, great furniture, unhurried atmosphere and friendly proprietor, Chester himself. Although this lovable store owner is retired with his son, Dave, running the operation, Chester still spends his time in this one-of-a-kind, family-run furniture emporium, assisting customers with their purchases. In addition to quality furniture, you’ll also find whimsical, original art and quirky décor knickknacks.

Where: 2911 University Ave., San Diego, CA 92104

Mor Furniture for Less

With nine locations in Southern California to choose from, Mor Furniture for Less is one of the largest furniture and mattress retailers on the West Coast. Voted Best Furniture Store by the Union Tribune in 2010 and 2011 as well as Best Mattress Store in 2010, Mor Furniture offers same-day delivery, a top notch selection and great customer service. But it’s the perks that really set this shopping experience apart from any others. The store is set up with free popcorn, music videos, drinks, video games and movies to improve the shopping experience.

Where: 6965 Consolidated Way, San Diego, CA 92121

Stuff Furniture & Consignment Shop

If you’re looking for an upscale consignment shop where you can find new and gently used furniture as well as unique pieces, Stuff Furniture & Consignment Shop is the place for you. This award winning retail gallery opened its doors in 2010, and since then has made it a goal to offer the most unusual items and fantastic finds to its customers. In addition to indoor furniture in styles like modern, country French and antique, the store also has a great selection of patio and garden furniture.

Where: 3514 Adams Ave., San Diego, CA 92116

Pat’s Corner

While Pat’s Corner might have some of the best deals in town, it is definitely not for the faint of heart. The store is a little disorganized and some of the pieces are a bit dusty, but if you get a thrill out of digging through several seemingly worthless pieces before finding that perfect one, Pat’s is the place. This quirky thrift store is particularly favored among the DIY set, which uses it as a jumping off point for many an Etsy project involving refinishing, refurbishing or revamping.

Where: 3409 30th St., San Diego, CA 92104

Photo credit: iStockphoto/rudisill

Where to Find Nice, Cheap Furniture in Baltimore

Whether you’re moving to or are currently living in the largest city in Maryland, Baltimore is home to gorgeous weather, breathtaking scenery and beautiful architecture. And if you’re lucky enough to call this place home, you’ll be glad to know that there are lots of stores around to find nice, cheap furniture for your space. If you’re moving out on your own for the first time or looking to update the look in your space, read on for our tips on finding great places to furniture shop on a budget.

Overstock Outlet
Ever stayed in a hotel and thought, “That’s a really nice TV stand”? Or that the bed was so comfortable? Overstock Outlet in the Jones Falls area is the place to go to find that nice TV stand or comfortable bed. This store purchases furniture from hotels and offices that are remodeling, as well as overstock furniture from big brands. Other items that can be found here include lamps, mirrors and TVs.
Where: 2811 Sisson St., Baltimore, MD 21211

Su Casa
This Fells Point neighborhood furniture store is affordable and the staff is there to accommodate you. If your stairwell is an awkward shape or if your doorway is too narrow, Su Casa’s staff is there to help you get your furniture into its new home. This store has your traditional furniture pieces, but it also includes lots of quirky finds, from one-of-a-kind blankets to wall clocks. And if you can’t move the furniture yourself, there are several delivery options, which are reasonably priced.
Where: 901 S. Bond St., Baltimore, MD 21231

In Watermelon Sugar
Offering a little bit of what seems like everything, In Watermelon Sugar is a home and bath boutique. This small business is essentially a one-stop shop for furniture, accessories, bath and paper products, as well as hand-selected jewelry and bags. With a little inspiration from Chesapeake Bay, this store has unique items to help furnish and decorate your place.
Where: 3555 Chestnut Ave., Baltimore, MD 21211

David’s on the Avenue
Located in Hampden on the Avenue, David’s is a furniture consignment shop that has a reputation for offering high quality used furniture at fair prices. The inventory changes often, but you can always find something that fits in with your style, as well as your price range.  The 2,000-square-foot showroom has a large quantity of furniture and decorative items, and if at first you can’t find that perfect couch, stop by on another day and you may get lucky!
Where: 914 W. 36th St., Baltimore, MD 21211

A People United
At first glance, this boutique may look like an ordinary clothing shop, but once you go downstairs, you’ll see the bright light pointing toward the furniture. The Tibetan furniture with intricate painted wood carvings is incredible and will have you wanting more. Whether you’re looking for end tables, coffee tables, cabinets or armoires, People United will provide you with unique pieces and décor items that will go great in your space.
Where: 516 N. Charles St., Baltimore, MD 21201

Photo Credit: iStockphoto/ChuckSchugPhotography

How to Maximize Space in Your Apartment

Space is limited in an apartment, but with a few simple additions, you can maximize what you have. Keep in mind that these additions can also act as décor pieces in your space. Find shelves, racks and hooks that are not only functional and space saving but also have character and serve a decorative purpose.

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Grown-Up Furniture: 3 Pieces You Should Never Inherit From Your Parents

Don’t hold onto that saggy plaid couch you inherited from your parents. You can find cool, cheap furniture many stores.

We’ve all been there. You’ve just found the perfect apartment or new home, and can’t wait to move in. Maybe it’s your first place and you have an avalanche of student loans ahead, or you dropped a few more dollars on your deposit than planned because the location’s just perfect!

Now the easiest thing to do is borrow a few key pieces from Mom and Dad to get the basic furnishings covered—just for now. You have precious knick-knacks to unwrap and can fill in the blanks later.

Only problem? That saggy plaid arm chair never leaves. It outstays its welcome like a roommate who majored in Comparative Lit. You can coat it with a new slipcover each season until it swells to twice its size…but there’s an easier way.

Just say no to inherited family furniture! Here are three items that should always be new and you.

Couch/Sofa

This is often the focus of your main room and should really set the stage for your style. Unfortunately, it’s also the most common hand-me-down from parents. And their “stage” may look more like a living room from the set of The Cosby Show or Friends. These shows won awards for acting, not upholstery.

You can find cool, contemporary furniture that won’t break your bank account at IKEA or Target. Wait for seasonal sales or search for items on clearance at upscale boutiques. With a little patience and planning, you can find a couch or sofa that’s all you. Trust us – it will be worth the wait!

Bed

Once you are out on your own, the last thing you need is to be sleeping in your old bed from the house you grew up in. You’ve moved on and up in the world. And somehow painting over the unicorns on your old headboard won’t cut it. (Sure they’ll be covered up, but you’ll always know what’s underneath!)

Experts say that you should buy a new mattress every five to 10 years. Old mattresses hold dust, skin particles, and micro bugs that are unhealthy and just gross. When you buy a new mattress and box spring, many stores will include a basic bed frame. Hire a handy friend or check out DIY sites online to design and create a new headboard.

Art

One of the easiest (and least expensive) ways to personalize your décor is with art or photos that reflect your style, not your parents’. Purchase one-of-a-kind pieces from creative friends or support local artists in your community. Print and frame your favorite Instagram photos.

Scout out art school gift shops or small galleries to discover young talent on the rise. Don’t just pick a print that matches your curtains; buy a painting or photograph that truly resonates with you. Visitors to your home will learn more about you by seeing and asking about your art.

You’ll be surprised at the impact a few anchor pieces of furniture and some personalized art can make in your new home. And there will be plenty of room left over for even better gifts from your parents—home cooked meals and lots of visits!

Photo credit: iStockphoto/cglade

Where to Find Nice, Cheap Furniture in Delaware

You can find nice, cheap furniture in Delaware without looking too hard.

While Delaware may not immediately come to mind when you’re thinking of cities with booming retail and commerce, some of the best furniture and décor pieces at the lowest prices can be found at the family-run independent furniture retailers and flea markets in the Diamond State. Check out the following places, located all around the state, for a varied and inexpensive selection of furniture and décor items that is sure to make your apartment feel more like a home.

Furniture Barn

One of the most beloved family-owned furniture stores in Delaware, Furniture Barn offers customers 20,000 square feet spread out over five floors and 10 warehouses. Operating for over 35 years, Furniture Barn has grown from a small mom and pop furniture store to a giant showroom filled with the best home furnishings at the best value, ranging from lamps, rugs, accessories and furniture. Not only serving the Delaware area, Furniture Barn delivers to Maryland, New Jersey and Pennsylvania, making it one of the largest value furniture stores in the area.

Where: 791 S. Dupont Highway, New Castle, DE 19720

The Zeppelin and the Unicorn

If you’re searching for one-of-a-kind furniture pieces that won’t break the bank, head to The Zeppelin and the Unicorn, a small yet surprisingly packed antique store where you’ll find a number of treasures that will fit nicely into your home décor. This store is cash or check only, so make sure to come prepared. More like an upscale thrift store than a stuffy antiques shop, The Zeppelin and the Unicorn features a great selection of used furniture at reasonable prices.

Where: 400 Silverside Road, Wilmington, DE 19809

Johnny Janosik

What differentiates Johnny Janosik from other furniture retailers in the Delaware area is their commitment to customer service. Founded in 1953 by a former television technician, Johnny Janosik has grown into one of the top 100 furniture stores in the United States according to Furniture Today Magazine. The Laurel location is the largest furniture store on the Eastern shore, carrying prestigious brands like Thomasville, Broyhill, Legacy Classic and more, while the two Dover locations include a full service store with furniture for the entire home as well as a small showroom that features only reclining furniture.

Where: 11151 Trussam Pond Road, Laurel, DE 19956

Cohen’s Furniture

Established in 1942, Cohen’s Furniture is one of the oldest independent furniture retailers in the Delaware area. The store often runs great specials, so it pays to pop by occasionally or check online for details. Cohen’s also offers a custom order option where you can select dining room, bedroom or living room furniture in the styles, sizes, colors and finishes you really want. Customers can also take advantage of advice from the staff’s talented designers, who are there to help with color and style selection as well as how to best arrange your furniture in your apartment.

Where: 4014 North Dupont Highway, New Castle, DE 19720

Spence’s Auction

Spence’s Auction is one of the most unique places to find furniture in Delaware. While not technically a furniture retailer, Spence’s Auction is an Amish-run indoor/outdoor auction and flea market that operates year round. With over 100 dealers to browse through, Spence’s offers some of the best deals on furniture and other home furnishings in the area. The market opens at 8 a.m., so make sure to arrive early to snatch up the best items.

Where: 550 S. New St., Dover, DE 19904

Photo credit: iStockphoto/Oralleff

Where to Find Nice, Cheap Decor in Fort Lauderdale

Check out a thrift store in Fort Lauderdale to find great new and used furniture.

From antique shopping in Middle River Terrace to the quirky design studios of Flamingo Park, Fort Lauderdale is an eclectic mix of sophisticated and chic décor style. Whether you’ve just moved to the Fort Lauderdale area or are a longtime resident, look for the must-have items to make your apartment space a home at the following budget-friendly décor shops.

Encore Interiors

Encore Interiors is a consignment store specializing in home furnishings and accessories including area rugs, lighting, artwork, china and crystal. All merchandise is well priced and in top notch condition. Truckloads of used items arrive every day, and new items arrive from builders, model homes, rep’s showrooms and factory closeouts. Even if an item is new, Encore Interiors prices it as used, meaning you’ll get the best deals on great items.

Where: 2384 N. Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33305

Wilton Theatre Auction Gallery

Just a few minutes from downtown Fort Lauderdale in the neighboring suburb of Wilton Manors, the Wilton Theatre Auction Gallery offers a unique way for Fort Lauderdale residents to find nice, cheap home décor items. This place used to be a theatre, but it has been transformed into an auction house that focuses on antiques, furniture, art and décor. Auctions are held every Tuesday at 6:30 p.m., and it is the longest running weekly auction house in South Florida.

Where: 1444 NE 26th St., Wilton Manors, FL 33305

Funky Flamingo 2nds

Not your average thrift store, Funky Flamingo 2nds is an upscale thrift store for people who are looking for interesting and unique furniture and home furnishings.  Check the website regularly for the deals of the day, and make sure to stop by at the monthly Cocktail Party on the second Friday of each month from 5 to 7 p.m., where you’ll receive 10 percent off on any purchase.

Where: 1234 NE 6th Ave., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304

Habitat Re-Store

Tucked away on a busy stretch of Broward Boulevard, this great thrift store run by Habitat for Humanity is chock full of all kinds of home décor items, both old and new. The selection changes daily, but the store specializes in new and gently used furniture and home repair items.

Where: 505 W. Broward Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312

Faith Farm Thrift Store

This store is broken out into three sections: new furniture, used furniture and general thrift items. New furniture is supplied by national retailers and features nearly a 20 percent reduction in the list price. The used furniture is usually in great condition and well organized, and you’ll be amazed at the gems you’ll find if you take the time to look through it. If you want first dibs, wait for the trucks to come in every couple of hours and stake your claim on the pieces you want right as they’re being carried off the truck.

Where: 1980 NW 9th Ave., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311

Photo credit: iStockphoto/Lisa-Blue