My dad was the coolest dad ever and built my very own playhouse when I was little. This was definitely my first designed space. I definitely agonized over the curtains and constantly re-arranged the 8′x8′ space. I was also a LEGO-maniac for most of my young years and I spent an inordinate amount of time creating cities where all of the houses had the appropriate landscaping and fully designed interiors. Of course, I also had a dollhouse way beyond the age of playing with dolls and all I cared about was decorating it.These instances are repeated again and again throughout my long life.

When I look back at my childhood, it is hardly shocking that I spent every summer in college watching design shows in order to design the new space I was moving into–floor plans and all. While I may have been surprised by this development I seriously doubt that anyone who really knew me was at all.

1. Set a price limit. There is a ton of stuff on the c-list and you can definitely spend a lot of time sifting through items that you really don’t want or need. I would bet that if you are shopping on Craigslist, you probably have a budget in mind..otherwise you would just head to a fancy designer store. This is the reason that CL made price limits people so use them. It will narrow your scope and help you find the real diamond in the ruff.

2. Pictures only please! This is a must. Are you really going to trust someone’s description? Pictures are worth a thousand words and I wouldn’t waste my precious gas money to trek out to see that the people who listed it exaggerated a little. If you think it might be the deal of the century, respond and ask them if they have any pictures.

3. Look for REAL wood. If a piece of furniture is cheap but made of real wood, you are just some elbow grease and a little paint or carnish away from a unique and revitalized piece. People on CL tend to over-value their newer looking veneer pieces because they look a little nicer or they seem more modern. On the other hand, a wood piece that has a little more wear and tear goes for cheap because it looks old and te owner no longer values it. Jump on these deals because these are the true value buys.

4. Shop for shapes and lines. This is not always obvious. When shopping on CL, I try to look at the shape and the form of the piece itself. If you are DIY-er you really need to look at what the architecture of the piece because this is what you are buying not the fabric.

5. Look for chances to negotiate. People often give themselves away with such tag-lines as: “I am moving and I really need of get rid of this couch” or “This piece has to go this weekend”. This is a golden opportunity, especially if you think that the piece is over-priced. Now, this is always risky because they can definitely say no. Always make an offer if you really like the piece but think you can wiggle down the price. Bargaining is much easier over email and you can be super-polite…”I know that you are looking to off-load this piece by the end of the weekend. If you can’t get $25 by Sunday, I would be happy to take it off your hands for $10″. You may lose a few pieces but every once in a while, this trick will pay off.

Want some examples? Here are some incredible bargains that I found in less than 15 minutes following the above rules. These are from the Seattle Area so if you think they are winners and are in the Sound area, go for it!

This great hamper for only $35…this piece could be used for a ton of stuff and I bet a friendly negotiation would be welcome.

I also love this bamboo coffee table. You could leave it plain or use white paint or a different color to give it a one-of a kind look.

These chairs are a super deal! What I love about these chairs are the great lines and  impeccable form. The have infinite uses and can be used in a variety of decors and spaces.

Here is another coffee table that could use a little TLC but otherwise is a great deal.

There is one more tip and it is very important. While most of the people on CL are lovely people, there are some crazies out there who are ready to take advantage of your trusting nature. Always use caution and try to get as much info from them as possible, name, phone number, email, etc. Bring someone with you or at least tell people where you are going. It is way better to be safe than sorry. Happy hunting!

So what is my “design” style? I love all things do-it-yourself and out of the box design. My style is a combination of modern and funky. Spaces I love: Modern but not sterile, funky but not wacky, and elegant without being stuffy. You will find all sorts of spaces in my home because I love to mix it up and try new things. I am constantly changing my mind and a house is never done…there is always one more touch to realy make a place shine in a new and different way.

Right now, I am in the process of turning my drab bathroom into a spa paradise–for $100. What??!! Oh yes, it is and the best part is that this re-design is apartment friendly. You can literally accomplish this in any space.

Get your imagination and join me!