Creating a beautiful, welcoming Airbnb doesn't have to cost a fortune. Some of my favorite pieces have come from unexpected places, and I've learned that a little patience, imagination, and willingness to hunt for treasures can go a long way. Here are a few of my favorite places to shop when I'm bringing a space to life.

AUCTIONS: One of my favorite places to find furniture, artwork, and unexpected treasures for my Airbnb spaces. I love the hunt, the bargains, and finding pieces with a little history and personality. And the best part? You can do it all from your couch. Browse, bid, and discover treasures without ever leaving home (until it's time to pick them up, of course).

Auction sites vary depending on where you live, so here's a little tip: ask your favorite AI assistant to help you find online auctions in your area. You might be surprised at what's available right in your own backyard..

HOMEGOODS:

HomeGoods is a great place to find affordable finishing touches that make a space feel warm and welcoming. Think pillows, throws, lamps, artwork, and those little unexpected finda that add personality. I especially love browsing the clearance sections. You never know what you'll discover.

WAYFAIR:

Wayfair is a great option when you're looking for something specific, from sofas and dining tables to rugs and lighting. There's a huge selection at different price points, and one of the biggest perks is having everything delivered right to your door. Sometimes convenience is worth its weight in gold, especially when you're furnishing an entire space.

MY SECRET WEAPON: FACEBOOK MARKETPLACE

I've had enormous luck with Facebook Marketplace. If you're planning a space a few months ahead, it's a fantastic place to find furniture, artwork, and unexpected treasures for a fraction of what you'd pay new. I've found couches, beds, tables, and kitchen supplies for less than $20 or even FREE.
I like to spend a little more on a few statement pieces and then fill in the rest with affordable finds. It's amazing what you can create when you're willing to look beyond the usual stores.

CREATE A BEAUTIFUL AESTHETIC:

Creating a beautiful space doesn't mean everything has to match or cost a fortune. Some of my favorite pieces are things I've stumbled upon and found a way to make my own.

Take this little corner (above pic) of one of my Airbnbs. I found that enormous, colorful painting at a thrift store for $30. The gold frame was another secondhand find I got for free. I added some cording, little clips, and cards from a deck I discovered, and suddenly I had a completely unique piece of wall art for about $10.

That's what I love about designing spaces. It's not about how much you spend. It's about what you see in something and what you imagine it could become.
Beyond auctions and Facebook Marketplace, don't forget about local thrift stores, garage sales, and flea markets. Some of my favorite pieces have come from unexpected places, and that's half the fun. You never know what you'll find.

Creating a beautiful, welcoming space doesn't have to cost a fortune. A little imagination, a willingness to hunt for treasures, and a few thoughtful touches can turn an ordinary room into something memorable.

Happy Hosting,
Lisa