While getting your first apartment can be exciting, the reality of it can be a little frightening, as well. With the freedom of having your own place comes the responsibility of paying bills. It’s easy to caught up in the excitement and forget about things like paying the bills. On top of that, you’re sure to continually find new things that you absolutely have to have for your apartment and each one of these requires money, as well. Here are a few useful tips to help you save money while in your first apartment.

Utilities:

Saving money on utilities is a practical way of reducing your cost of living. While some bills will remain at a set amount for the duration of your rent, like your garbage bill, others will increase and decrease based on your usage. Turning off the lights when not needed or when leaving a room will save you money on electricity. Don’t leave your computer or television on constantly and set your thermostat above 70 degrees in warm weather and slightly below that in winter.

Furniture:

Furnishing an apartment is often one of the greatest expenses you’ll encounter, other than rent. Buying furniture from flea markets, garage sales and consignment shops will go a long way towards getting your place furnished at a fraction of the cost of new furniture. You’ll find some amazing deals at these places, as well.

Groceries:

Buying food is expensive. Store brands are usually just as good as name brand items and cost considerably less. Buying in bulk if you have the storage space is also a good way to save some money. Eat your leftovers, rather than throwing them out.