Ignore the popcorn ceiling. My best cheap tips are to think about how long you'll be in this place and buy accordingly, and don't be cheap on the mattress. Buy a loveseat rather than a sofa (smaller) on sale at Macy's, or Ikea. Do not buy any kitchen things that only have one use. Buy a lot of your kitchen things at Ikea or Target or Marshalls or TJ Maxx. I live alone and only have four forks, four spoons, four knives, and one sharp knife, one frying pan, and one pasta pot. Toaster oven is a great idea.