Creating Storage Where None Exists

One of the most exciting days is when you move into your new home. After all the saving and work to your credit score, you're finally able to call your new place home. However, it takes a little while of living inside of a new place to realize what you need to improve — and one of those improvements is storage space. It can be easy to fall in love with a house when it's empty and ready for sale, but once you move in you might realize that you are lacking in nooks and crannies to put your stuff. When you live in a home where storage space is at a premium, take advantage of some easy ways to "fake" storage.

Build a Garage or Shed

Adding outdoor storage can be one of the best investments that you make to your new home. Not only is it convenient for you to put your less-needed items like holiday decor out of sight, but adding onto your home also adds value down the road when you decide to sell. 

Garage

Attached or detached, a garage is the perfect place for parking cars, housing extra items and creating a workshop for the tinkerer in your life. Since garages are typically larger than a simple storage shed, it can also be an ideal spot for creating a loft area. When it's finished with drywall, insulation and a forced air heater, you're ready to tackle any project in any weather. Remember, though, to check with your state and county before getting heavily invested in your plans; permits and paperwork are an unfortunate reality before you even pick up a hammer.

Shed

The beauty of a storage shed is its diversity. You can go to Lowe's and pick up a premade kit all ready to go, or you can even check on sites like Craigslist to see if there's anything gently used nearby. You can also check online to build plans to create something perfect for you and your living situation.

Shipping Containers

Although hipsters are using these for everything from homes to commercial buildings, shipping containers are a surprisingly affordable option when you're looking for a quick way to store your stuff. They range in price, and of course, the more expensive options are the ones in the best condition, but once you have one you can do whatever you like with it: Cover it with siding and make it look like part of the home; move it all over your yard; or leave it exactly as it is and upgrade when you have the money to do so.

Think Vertically

Indoor storage can be tricky if you're short on closets since you don't want the space to look cluttered. When in doubt, try building upwards to take advantage of unused wall space.

Shelves

Open shelving isn't for everyone, but for some people it's a great option because it forces you to think tidy. Do you want your shelves to look disorganized and dusty? Of course not! Look at your empty walls and imagine what it would look like with some fresh shelving units.

Cabinets and Cupboards

Check out places like the Salvation Army or Goodwill for these kinds of things; you can often find like-new cabinetry from construction zones to put in your home. This doesn't only mean in the kitchen; wall cabinets can be ideal in places like offices and bedrooms too.

Hooks, Pegboards and Hanging Storage

You can go to any hardware store and find a hefty piece of pegboard for very little money. Spray paint it the color of your choice and mount it to the wall — before long, it will become your favorite piece of storage. S-hooks and other hanging mechanisms offer variety, plus you can use this method in any room of the house. You can hang anything from baskets to rods to make a little added storage where none previously existed.

Make Furniture Serve Double Duty

If you've got some furniture that could be used for something other than its intended purpose, think of ways to upcycle the pieces you already own. A little creativity is all it takes to make something work double time.

• Armoires can be great for more than clothing, they can also serve as a storage station for things like art supplies, wrapping paper and ribbon and anything else you can think of. Simply attach baskets and hooks to the inside walls and doors to customize it how you want.
• An extra dresser makes a great buffet or sideboard for things like tablecloths and napkins, the "good" silverware and other kitchen things.
• Bookcases and shelving units can be used to break up a space and help it feel like two rooms. 

As you navigate your new home and start to live in it for a little while, it's easier to see what you need to change. If storage is a problem right off the bat, think of ways to create new storage solutions.