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Category: Design & Furnishing
By: Prayas Choudhary
Reply by Prayas Choudhary:
Here's my go-to list after furnishing 7 properties: 1. **Facebook Marketplace** — seriously, this is my #1 source. You can find barely-used solid wood furniture for 70% off retail. Real wood > particle board every single time for durability. I got a $2,000 West Elm dresser for $400. 2. **Wayfair** — great for beds, sofas, and dining tables. Look for their "commercial grade" or "contract grade" options. They're designed for heavier use. Wait for sales (Memorial Day, Black Friday) and you can get 40-50% off. 3. **IKEA, but only specific lines:** The HEMNES, BRIMNES, and MALM bedroom lines are actually solid. Avoid anything with legs that screw in — they always wobble after a few months. The FRIHETEN sleeper sofa is legendarily durable in STR circles. 4. **Amazon for accessories** — throw pillows, curtains, wall art, kitchen supplies. Not for core furniture. 5. **HomeGoods/TJMaxx** — great for decor, lamps, and accent pieces that make photos pop. For $4K on a 2BR, that's tight but doable. Priority: mattresses (don't cheap out), sofa, dining table. Everything else can be sourced used.
Reply by Prayas Choudhary:
One tip on durability: **avoid white or light-colored upholstery.** I know it looks great in photos (that "bright airy" aesthetic) but it stains within the first month. Go with darker sofas (charcoal, navy) and use lighter accents via throw pillows that are cheap to replace. Also, get performance fabric on anything guests sit on. Crypton or Revolution fabrics are virtually stain-proof. Cost more upfront but the lifespan is 3x longer in a rental.