10 things worth saving for in your new home

Moving is expensive, and most people are broke after paying a deposit (whether you are renting or buying), but these ten things are really worth saving for.

If you have just moved, you are not rolling in the cash. Just paying the movers and the connection fees can wipe out your finances.

That’s no reason why you can’t put together a long-term plan of the things worth spending money on (and saving for) in the next five years. Here’s more about these ten things:

1. Decent pots and pans

The off-the-shelf variety from the supermarket will buckle and scuff after a few months. A decent pot and pan will last you for life. It’s worth spending the extra money.

2. A good blanket

An extra couple of hundred rand will have you sleeping in comfort (and warmly huddled in front of the TV) for years to come. A good blanket won’t lose its fluff, and it won’t start shedding bits all over the house. (And while you’re about it, real cotton duvet covers are also a winner).

3. High-quality crockery

This does not have to be expensive, but something that is classy, durable and neutral could last you for a long time. White is good as it fits in with any colour scheme. Brightly patterned plates could clash with décor if you should move to a new place.

4. A sofa for life

Look around and find what you would like to buy, whatever the price. Once you have a picture in your head, look out for sales, and scour Gumtree and OLX for bargains. Slip-covers might cost extra, but they can be washed or replaced. A good sofa forms the centre of your living room.

Read more: 5 tips for first-time couch buyers

5. A decent bed and mattress

You spend a third of your life in bed. Money invested in these two things is never wasted. It’s not just about comfort – a sagging mattress can give you back problems.

6. Properly framed pictures

One or two of these just lift a room. It’s worth the money and you can take them with you wherever you go. And yes, one can see the difference between the one you framed yourself, and the one that was professionally done.

7. Good-quality appliances

A washing machine, a dryer, a fridge. You could use these for 20 years. Can you really put a price on something you use every single day?

8. Proper curtains

Fortunately, these days, unless you have unusually shaped windows, you can buy ready-made properly lined linen curtains for a fraction of the price it would cost to have them custom-made. Few things detract as much from a room as shabby hand-me-down curtains that don’t fit the colour scheme and end 30cm from the floor.

9. Elegant glasses

Nothing says ‘student house’ quite as loudly as mismatched and chipped glasses from the supermarket or hand-me- downs from three different family members. Nobody says you have to haul out the fancy glasses every day, but they’re nice to have when you invite some special guests.

10. Nice luggage

Technically this isn’t part of the décor, but it’s nevertheless worth mentioning. Scuffed and old suitcases and carry bags create a grotty first impression. High-quality matching luggage could last you for decades.