Searching for an apartment to rent can be a time-consuming and sometimes overwhelming task, especially if you’re not prepared. Initially, it’s important to conduct thorough research, select the location, check your credit score, get renters insurance, undergo a tenant background check, sign the lease agreement, and add your personal touch to your space. However, with a little bit of effort, you can turn your rental apartment into a place that feels like home.
When you’re renting an apartment, there are often restrictions on what you can and cannot do. You might be anxious to make it feel like your own space, but you don’t want to damage anything in the process.
While it is primarily the responsibility of the landlord or property manager to refresh their apartments for rent, it is also important for renters to take steps to refresh the space they are renting for a number of reasons:
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Reasons to refresh the space
Improving the living experience
A refreshed rental property can improve the overall living experience for renters. By making updates and improvements to the space, renters can make it more comfortable and livable.
Building a good reputation
Renters who take steps to refresh their rental property can also build a good reputation with the landlord or property owner. This can make them more likely to be offered renewals or even a first choice for future rental properties.
Creating a sense of ownership
Renters who take steps to refresh their rental property can create a sense of ownership and pride in the space. This can lead to better care of the property and a more positive attitude toward the rental experience.
Saving money
Renters who take steps to refresh their rental property can also save money in the long run. By making small updates and improvements, renters can reduce their utility bills and save money on repairs.
Enhancing the community
Renters who take steps to refresh their rental property can also enhance the community they live in. By keeping the property well-maintained and updated, renters can contribute to the overall aesthetic and livability of the neighborhood.
One of the most important things to remember when updating your rented home is that any changes made must be reversible. That means no painting walls or drilling holes in the walls or floors. However, there are still plenty of ways to make your space look and feel more like your own.
Here are a few ways you can refresh your apartment for rent without breaking any rules or damaging the place:
Change Up Your Furniture Arrangement
One of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to update your rented property is by rearranging existing furniture. Moving pieces around can give your place a totally new look and, best of all, it won’t damage any walls or floors. If you have bigger items that require more effort, ask your landlord for help before attempting to move them yourself.
Add Color With Accessories
Brighten up your space with colorful accessories, such as pillows and throws. These items are relatively inexpensive and easy to move when it’s time to pack up and leave. If you want something with more staying power, try removable wallpaper or decals that can be easily peeled off once you vacate the premises.
Update Your Light Fixtures
Light fixtures can instantly add style and elegance to any room in your home. However, if they’re hardwired into the wall, that could be a cause for concern with some landlords. Luckily, there are plenty of stylish plug-in lamps available at reasonable prices so you don’t have to worry about hardwiring anything into your rental property walls.
Decorate With Wallpaper
Wallpaper is an easy way to add color and pattern, while also making a statement in any room. There are many types of removable wallpaper available on the market today that make it easy to update a room without leaving any permanent damage behind. Plus, since the wallpaper is easy to remove when it’s time to move out, it’s one of the best options for renters looking for an inexpensive and reversible way to spruce up their space.
Add Plants and Flowers
Adding plants and flowers to the property can be a simple and cost-effective way to refresh the property. This can include things like flowers, succulents, or small trees. By adding plants and flowers, you can give the property a more inviting and welcoming feel.
Get Creative With Storage Solutions
When it is time to move out of a rental property, many tenants struggle with finding storage solutions for their belongings during their transition period from one place to another. Instead of spending money on bulky storage containers or packing supplies, get creative with storage solutions, like bookshelves and baskets, which can easily fit in a car or truck for transport when necessary. These items also come in handy for organizing smaller objects around the house while adding some extra style points as well.
Conclusion
Making small changes, like rearranging furniture or adding decorative accessories, is an easy way to refresh your rental property without damaging anything in the process or running afoul of any potential rules laid down by your landlord.
It is important for renters to take an active role in maintaining and refreshing the rental property, and to communicate with the landlord or property owner about any updates or improvements that are needed. This can help create a positive rental experience and become an ideal tenant for your landlord.
