First-Time Family Home: Your 30-Day ReStore Setup Plan

Furnishing your first family home is exciting. But it takes time.

You might be asking yourself where to start. Breaking it down into manageable steps makes all the difference. Here's a realistic, ReStore-supported 30-day plan that won't break the bank or dampen your spirit.

Week 1: First Things First (Days 1-7)

Knowing what to buy is the first step. Create a shopping plan that clearly identifies “must-haves” and “nice-to-haves.” 

“Must-haves” are pieces used every day. They impact daily routines and basic comfort. These are the items that make a house function properly for a family:

• Sturdy beds for good sleep

• Comfortable seating

• A table for the whole family 

• Basic storage 

• Essential lighting for each room

“Nice-to-haves” enhance a home's comfort and style but aren't crucial for daily living. These can be added gradually as the budget allows:

• Additional accent seating

• Decorative tables and items 

• Matching furniture sets

Week 2: The Core Living Spaces (Days 8-14)

Now it's time to focus on the areas where families spend most of their time. The living room and dining area work together to create a functional family hub.

Living Room:

• Start with one comfortable, sturdy sofa that works for the whole family

• Choose a coffee table or end table for drinks, books, or remote controls

• Look for at least one good lamp

Dining Area:

• Find a table that fits your space and family size (plus one or two extra seats for guests)

• Mix-and-match dining chairs

• Look for one storage piece for dishes or pantry items

• Acquire necessary kitchen appliances

Tips:

• Don't pass up good-quality pieces just because they need minor repairs

• Use small updates, like new hardware, to transform dated pieces

• Make sure to measure doorways and halls before bringing furniture home

• Shop early in the week for the best selection

This week focuses on function over perfection. These spaces will evolve, but for now, they just need to work.

Week 3: Growing with your Family (Days 15-21)

• Foundational Pieces: Every kid's room starts with the basics: a solid twin bed, sturdy dresser, and dependable bookshelf. Choose neutral, well-built items that can be used throughout the years. Skip the themed furniture and trendy pieces that they'll outgrow quicker than you’d think. A simple desk might seem unnecessary for a young child, but it can serve as a craft table now and a homework station later.

• Multi-Purpose Pieces: The same goes for furniture that adapts as they grow. A dresser with a flat top works as a changing table for babies and a display area as they get older. Storage benches hold toys now and provide seating later. Look for pieces that can serve different stages of their childhood–this can save you money on replacing items year after year.

• Vertical Storage Solutions: Kids accumulate stuff–lots of it. When floor space is limited, think up. Tall bookcases and wardrobes maximize storage while maintaining play space. Cube organizers with bins keep toys organized now and can store books and supplies later.

Week 4: The Long Game (Days 21-30)

While the goal is setting up your home in 30 days, smart planning will help you in the long game.

• Quality Investments: Know which pieces deserve investment and which can be temporary solutions. Look for signs of quality like solid wood construction and sturdy frames at Twin Cities ReStore. hese are worth grabbing when you spot them. These pieces can easily be refreshed over time with new paint or hardware.

• Strategic Shopping: Keep a running list of future needs and visit ReStore during peak donation periods like spring cleaning and end-of-semester moves. Until you find the perfect pieces, create cohesion through simple updates like coordinated hardware or paint colors. 

The first 30 days of homeownership can create a solid foundation for a home, but the best part is letting it grow alongside your family. Start your home's story today with help from ReStore. Visit our locations in New Brighton and south Minneapolis to get started on your 30-day plan! Be sure to sign up for Hot Deals emails or VIP texts to save even more on amazing deals.