One of the difficulties of renting is not being able to do whatever you want in terms of design… if you’re an interior design fanatic, it can be a bit frustrating watching those home makeover reality shows and DIY renovation programmes… but that doesn’t mean you can’t do anything to spruce up your space! We’ve compiled a list of tips for renters that want to feel fashionable in their own new home without falling foul of the rental agreement.
Splurge on Furniture
Yes, you’ll have to move it (or resell it), but nice furniture is one of the best investments you can make if you want to feel at home in your space. Why? Because when you do buy, you’re not going to want to fill it with substandard flea market stuff—and you will probably have a lot of other expenses to worry about at first. Now is the time to invest in the living room set you’ve always wanted!
Be Friendly With Your Landlord
You’ll have a lot more design options if the two of you get on, versus always butting heads over trivial things. If you’re interested in a new backsplash and willing to foot the bill, for example, an amenable landlord is priceless.
Forget Wallpaper
Don’t let anyone convince you that wallpaper in a rental space is a good idea. For one thing, great wallpaper is pricier than paint, and for another, you’ll almost certainly have to cover or remove it when you leave… both prospects being more difficult than covering paint.
Paint? Go For It!
As long as you’re willing to cover it, most landlords don’t mind if you paint the place, and it’s a financially sound investment for all the joy that coordinating your walls and décor can bring. Just keep in mind that you will need to return the walls to their original condition when your tenancy ends, so factor in a second round of paint if budget is a concern.
Don’t Change Serious Structural Features
Crown moulding, counters, hardwood floors—these are investments that should be saved for your own home. That’s because the more you spend on these things (generally speaking) the more they’re worth in years to come, if beautifully maintained—they’re actually investments. You’ll be abandoning them when you get the chance to finally buy your own home.
Don’t forget that options like wall-hangings and of course paintings can also transform a space as well as soft furnishings such as rugs and cushions, curtains and bed sets.
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