In one post, I talked about how we went about searching for our "dream" apartment.  Well, the next big expense was of course the renovations.  I very often hear people say that since one has already spent so much buying a property, it only makes sense to renovate it to its fullest.  Besides, it's a hassle add in new items later. I used to think like that. But not anymore. Much of the change in attitude has to do with our "nomadic" lifestyle.  You see, we have been moving house so much for the past few years as expats in China and staying in a range of apartments to houses that we have a very simple philosophy for renovations,"Keep it affordable, portable and sustainable."  In fact, we realize, much of the costs are saved even before you buy your unit. We spent a total of less than $50,000 ......