When you're running your own business, whether from home or from an actual office space, you dream about getting the most modern equipment, the most professional interior design and the best office furniture you can get your hands on.

Well, ideally that should be the case but in reality you may be constrained from going full throttle on your purchases since you need to prioritize your expenditures and save a bit of cash for the actual running of the business. This is especially the case when you're only starting out and you have to find alternative ways of cutting costs.

When you're purchasing office furniture, you need to find the right balance between function, comfort, style and budget. Before you can actually do any buying, you need to determine what office furniture you need in terms of what your employees and clients require. Some of your employees many need desks with drawers or filing cabinets for those who are pushing paper on a regular basis. Others may simply need a desk tailored for a desktop computer. Turning your attention to your clients, do you need to find a conference table or will a simple and cozy setting do?

You may also want to look into modular designs and easy-to-assemble furniture in case you want the flexibility of rearranging your office interior, either to make room for more people or for more furniture. It's also nice to think about ergonomics because if you choose office furniture that do not feel comfortable to your staff, then they'll be bothered with a lot of minor irritants and inconveniences, like back pains, eye pains and headaches, that may take their minds off their jobs.

You also need to take into consideration just how much space you have in your office. You cannot buy too large office furniture if you have only a small office to furnish. It will also make your office feel too cramped and stuffy and this will not help in getting your clients settled in and at ease.

Once you have identified what these requirements are, you simply need to find matching or coordinated pieces to make them look attractive.

Now, the hunt for the inexpensive office furniture is on. Make sure that you check you budget first to know your limits. You may want to browse through brand name office furniture manufacturer's websites to get a gauge for how much brand new office furniture really cost. If your budget can't take the strain, then it's time to find cheap but still appealing-looking office furniture.

One option is to browse your newspaper for regular bankruptcy auctions. These usually offer almost-new equipment and office furniture at very affordable prices.
Another alternative is to buy your office furniture from liquidators. Liquidators specialize in brand-name, closeout merchandise from a wide variety of corporate sources including office furniture. You can find liquidators on the Internet and in your newspapers and phone directories.

Second hand stores are also a good place to visit when looking for office furniture. Though you have to keep in mind that they may charge slightly higher fees than auctions and liquidators. You also have to have a good knowledge of the pieces that you're going to buy. Also, most of the time, you won't find a complete set of matching furniture and may have to settle for a piece at a time. They are good for getting unique pieces that will be the perfect, eye-catching decorative accent in your reception area or main office.

Surprising as it may sound, you may also find good bargains at local colleges. Graduating students often need to dispose of their used desks, chairs and bookcases and if you post an ad in the local college paper, you're bound to find someone willing to let go of their stuff for a handsome price.

Local retailers of office supplies and furniture also sell refurbished pieces at prices less than what brand new ones go for. Sometimes, you may have to make a few adjustments such as new paint or minor repairs but it will save you in the long run.