So, I'm no expert at decorating. I don't have my own house. I've haven't even had my own apartment (yet). But I love interior design. And over the past few months, my roommate has spruced up our apartment in just the slightest ways that have made all the difference. So no, I'm not an expert, but I'm ready for the day when I'm able to decorate my own place. And you can be, too.

1) Ask around

The chances are, family or friends have pieces of their own that they're dying to get rid of, but just don't know what to do with or who to give it to. This past month one of my cousins was trying to give away an entire dining room set to someone in the family (the only problem being she's states and states away). Ask your mom or your grandma; they're likely to know the most.

2) Don't rule out places like Goodwill or Salvation Army

Especially for smaller decorative pieces, thrift stores often have an entire section full of things like mirrors, picture frames, etc. It's worth giving a look, and it'll be extremely discounted.

3) Utilize apps

Poshmark, eBay, Craigslist, and even Facebook now has a feature to see what people in your area are selling. You may end up finding something that would normally cost hundreds for under $100. After all, one (wo)man's trash is another's treasure, right?

4) Splurge on a couple things

Those being said, you're obviously going to end up finding some items you really, really love. I know for me, looking through Anthropologie's home section is like dying and going to heaven. If you find a carpet or larger piece that's one of a kind and you know you can't get it anywhere else, save up and splurge. You'll have it for years to come and you'll get to see it everyday. You'll be happy you took the plunge.

5) Get creative

My roommate had the brilliant idea to paint our own canvases to hang up in the apartment, and I'm forever grateful she did. You get to display something you made, and it serves its purpose in adding some life to the place. Check out places like Pinterest or Etsy for inspiration.

While your place may not resemble the likes of a New York loft or an upscale London flat, you're on the way to making it your own. You still have plenty of time to build up your collection to have the apartment/house/cabin/etc. of your dreams.