How to Personalize Your Rented Home

Lots of people live in rented accommodation, either through choice or necessity, and while it can be a flexible and convenient way to live, one of the downsides is that usually, you are not able to redecorate or renovate the property to suit your personality. In most cases, unfortunately, a tenant is not allowed to make any significant changes to the interior décor. What’s more, if the property is furnished, they may also have to live with furniture that does not suit their lifestyle or taste.

This article outlines some ideas and tips to help you personalize your rented property, so it feels more like home. 

Speak to the landlord about potential changes 

First off, it may be worth asking your landlord if they would be comfortable with any changes that might improve the home. For example, if you want to cover up bright paint with a more stylish and neutral color or replace old, peeling wallpaper, they may be happy to give you permission. The expense would likely be your responsibility and they would need to approve the changes beforehand, but they may be more accommodating than you think. In fact, some landlords may be happy for you to make cosmetic changes that can be reversed if you agree to return the property to a more neutral state before you leave. 

Display your keepsakes, photos, and art

Displaying your personal keepsakes, photos, art, and crafts is a quick and easy way to make a space feel like your own. Drilling holes for pictures may not be wise, but there are plenty of ways to hang pieces on the wall without using tools nowadays. You could display arts that you have bought or create unique pieces that express your personality. In fact, this could be the ideal opportunity to try your hand at a new craft or hobby, especially if you manage to save money on craft supplies with a Hobby Lobby coupon.

Choose new soft furnishings

You can add color, texture, and patterns with soft furnishings such as rugs, cushions, throws, or curtains. These items are yours to keep if and when you eventually move on, but if you are replacing curtains and/or a rug that is already in place, remember to keep the originals somewhere safe so you can put them back up before you leave. 

Paint a few walls and/or add removable wallpaper

If you do get permission from your landlord to make some cosmetic changes, you do not need to spend a lot of money on redecorating the entire property. Painting just a few key walls can make all the difference and, assuming you do the painting yourself, will not cost much money at all. If you are not able to repaint, consider using removable wallpaper, which will not damage the wall underneath. 

Introduce a few items of furniture

Moving into a furnished property can be feel like moving into someone else’s home, but you can put your own stamp on the place by moving the furniture around or adding a couple of new items. Alternatively, placing an attractive throw over an ugly chair or a cloth over a table can make all the difference.