For many, renting a property is the only option for having a place that they can call home. With property prices continuing to rise and a deposit becoming increasingly harder to save for, renting has become a more popular option for those looking to have their own space.
One of the best things about owning a house is making it into a home through your own style and personalisation. As such, this is something which renters can often feel like they have missed out on due to them not being able to make any huge changes to the property. However, everyone should have the chance to put their own personal twist on the space they will be living in, and there are many ways renters can make their houses into a home without making your landlord angry or by not abiding by the tenancy agreement. Below, you will find some easy yet useful tips on how you turn your rented house into the home you have always dreamed of.
When living in a rented property, you probably aren’t allowed to paint the walls without your landlord’s permission. As such, there are many other ways you can add a little bit of colour into each room. Expressing your own taste through your favourite colours can really bring your home to life, and by showing this through soft furnishings, it can be done very easily. From cushions, curtains, rugs, sofas and even through your kitchen appliances; colour can make a huge difference to a room.
One of the easiest ways to bring a room or your home to life is by adding flowers or plants throughout each space. Not only will these bring a room to life but can also help with refreshing the air. Of course, if you don’t want the commitment of looking after a real plant, there are plenty of artificial alternatives. If your home is on the smaller side, hanging plants can look great when placed on a windowsill, shelf or even hanging them from the wall or the end of a curtain pole.
Just because you don't technically own your property, this doesn’t mean that you can’t personalise it. By adding personal photos of your family and friends which sit on shelves or other surfaces can add a touch of warmth, as will adding any of your favourite artwork or knick-knacks you have.
Another option to personalise your space is by using wall stickers. One of the best aspects of using wall stickers is that they tend not to leave any residue after they have been removed. They are easy to place on walls, and with many options available, you can turn bare walls into attractive looking feature pieces.
V from Dancing in My Wellies has given some suggestions for decorating while renting:
"Always check your tenancy agreement to see what you ARE allowed to do. Many landlords are strict on decorating, which can feel limiting but you can still make your mark on your home! Look out for art work to adorn your walls, check out charity shops, dump shops (yes they are a thing!) and local auctions for works of art which make your heart sing! Use your wall art to build your room decor around. For example, if you've chosen a seascape painting, choose the colours from the painting and buy throws and cushions in those colours. It helps draw the painting into the room, and helps your lounge feel more homely. I always suggest investing in a good quality rug too, whether you opt for a neutral tone or bright pattern choose something you love. Just remember, no matter how many times you move, a good quality rug will move with you and instantly make a room feel like home."
If your rented abode is on the smaller side, multi-functional furniture can be a blessing. Folding dining tables and sofa beds can be a great addition if you lack space. It is also worth considering using items for something other than their intended purpose. For example, a chair or stool can make a quirky nightstand, and can easily be used as its intended purpose when guests come around. With a little consideration and some clever shopping, you can really make the most of the space you have.
Some rooms will be easier to makeover than others; for example, a living room will be much easier than the bathroom. However, by adding soft furnishings such as bathmats, hand towels and even switching out the shower curtain can make a difference; as well as adding plants as we mentioned above. Making a house into a home is all about creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere which you are excited to spend time in after a long day of work. Candles, soft lighting from lamps can create a relaxing ambience which you will want to unwind in and where you can happily entertain your friends and family; sometimes the little touches go a long way.
Jen from the English Rose in Manchester has rented her home for over 10 years and here is her advice on how to make your rented house a home:
"To turn your rented house into a home, focus on putting your mark on the two main living areas - your bedroom and living room. Even if your rental is furnished you can still add your own finishing touches to your living room, such as cushions, books, candles and art. If you’re not allowed to hang things, large framed prints still look great leaning against the walls, and lots of greenery and living plants really make a living room feel homely. Make your bedroom a haven with lots of your own pillows, cushions and bedding in your favourite colour scheme. Try having a duvet that is a size (or two) bigger size than your bed for extra cosiness! And sometimes a rental property can lack storage space, so invest in some under-bed storage boxes, and some pretty boxes or baskets that will look great in your room. Then finally, invite your friends and family round to really make your house feel like home!"
Just because you rent a property, it doesn’t mean that you should not try and make it into an enjoyable space where you have added your own personal touch. It is also important to remember that renting can be the perfect alternative to buying a house and can be a well-suited lifestyle for those who don’t want to stay in the same place or just are not in a position to make that huge investment.
Here at Godfrey Short & Squire, we have a range of houses to rent in Okehampton, Dartmoor and the rest of West Devon. If you require any advice or have any questions about the listings on our website, then please do not hesitate to get in touch on 01837 54504.