Moving into a new apartment is exciting. Trying to figure out how to set up and decorate the apartment, however, can be daunting. It is especially difficult for college students who can only afford the bare necessities. Here’s how to find cheap, decent furniture and make the most of your new home.

To save money on furniture, hit up your family and friends. Chances are they have plenty of miscellaneous items that they no longer need.

Comb your neighborhood and see if anyone is having a yard sale.

Finally, check Craigslist for great deals on decent furniture. If you have roommates, chipping in and splitting costs is an easy way for everyone to save a significant amount of money.

When you finally have furniture, here’s how to maximize your space and liven up the place.

• Stack things up. Those stacking cubes seem great for storage and to conserve precious floor space.

• If you have roommates, consult with them to make sure no two people are bringing the same things. Too much stuff can lead to a cluttered and cramped apartment.

• Try to keep the center of the room clear. Doing so gives the appearance of a more spacious area.

• Use furniture that serves multiple purposes. Anything with drawers or shelves built in helps save space.

• Look for furniture that can be folded, stacked, easily stored or retractable.

• Posters, wall stickers and mirrors help brighten and add color to a room.

Settling into your apartment shouldn’t be a burden. Use these tips to help make your apartment a place you can call home.