Attention Future Thrifters

We just got back from Utah with a truck load of stuff, including this room of furniture. Almost all of my furniture is second hand or from IKEA...Here is a picture of our old place in Provo. We created this room for less than $300. You can't even get a new couch for much less than that, let alone an entire family room. I bet you could do it too...
If you plan on finding anything second hand, I have a few suggestions...
1. Be patient. It takes a number of trips to each store over a period of time to find just the right pieces.

2. Define your style. Chances are you won't find the exact piece you are looking for but if you understand your overall style, the combination of pieces will add up to an awesome room.

3. Keep an open mind. There are a lot of pieces that look really junky at first but all they need is a little love and they'll be good as new. Most pieces just need some cleaning or a little paint.

Not bad for starving students, I'd say!