For some people, renting is a far better option than buying, but when your house isn’t actually your own it doesn’t always feel like home. Without the freedom of being able to do whatever you want with the property, it can be hard to find ways to put your own stamp on it while sticking to any rules or regulations your landlord has.
While you may not be able to make large changes in the same way you would as a homeowner, here are some cheap and simple way to make sure your rented house still feels like home.
Make use of Command Hooks
While most landlords probably won’t want you to be putting nails into the walls or using blue tack that could leave greasy marks, ask your landlord if they would be happy for you to use Command Hooks. These hooks can be stuck onto walls and doors and then easily removed when your tenancy ends, without leaving any marks or holes.
Depending on the type of hook you use, these can be used to hang up picture frames, canvases, and notice boards, or even as a coat or towel hook on the back of a door, helping to add a bit of your own personality to the property.
Purchase some plants
Whether small or large, indoor plants can breathe life into a space and make it feel more cosy and homely. Large, leafy plants and vibrant flowers also add a pop of colour to a room and are ideal for apartments or houses with little to no garden space. Indoor plants have even been proven to boost productivity and reduce stress, so the more the merrier… literally!
Show your personality through soft furnishings
Many rental properties have a neutral colour scheme to make sure it appeals to a wide range of potential tenants. While you likely won’t be able to paint the walls your preferred colour after moving in, soft furnishings such as throws, cushions, rugs, and lamps can not only bring colour and interest to a room but also help to make it feel much cosier and more inviting.
Talk to your landlord
Every landlord will want to make sure they have happy tenants, and building a good relationship with your landlord can be invaluable. Different landlords will have different restrictions about what you can and can’t change or add to the property, and some may even be happy for you to make more permanent changes. It is always important to check with your landlord before making any changes anyway, but by having an open conversation with them about what you want, you might be able to do more than you originally thought.
At Simpson and Partners, we offer support for both tenants and landlords, so get in touch on 01536 518200 or pop into your nearest branch to find out more.