That doesn't mean you can't buy anything new of course or have help with painting, but if you think about how much you can save rather than how much you can spend you will get the house you want faster. So, keep an eye out for bargains and decorate as much as possible and you will soon see how far your money will go.Once you have your ideas and have found inspiration, where to shop for materials becomes key to working within the budget. It's good to watch the television and not focus on the story line of programme but the flats they are set in and of course books and magazines are also a good source of inspiration. you'd be very surprised if you saw what people no longer have a need for. Many stores have end of line stock which can be useful. Of course, choosing to decorate yourself will save you a great deal of money that you can spend on more furniture or badly needed repairs that may need attention.But don't get too too down about it, most have us have been in the same position when we've bought or rented our first place. Check out your local media for outlets that have a sale on and look around for bargains while out and about shopping.You have paid out thousands on your first flat for a deposit, valuations and solicitor fees and now there's little left to actually decorate your little palace.I would tackle one room at a time. It takes time to stamp your personality on a place and sort out each room. Set yourself an affordable budget for each room and take inspiration from every different source you can. Chairs can be covered in throws or re-covered. It certainly doesn't help that we are inundated with images of trendy and perfect homes every day from tv and magazines. Check out local newspapers and shops for second-hand items and head for recycling websites like Freecycle where furniture and other bits for the house and garden can be found for China Hydraulic Standard Fittings Wholesale Manufacturers free.. Don't be proud, most people when they start out receive help from friends or family so if someone offers you something which is fitting in with your style then there are ways to personalize these things