Moving into a new space can be both overwhelming and exciting and despite the whirlwind of chaos that comes with the actual move, the invigorating feeling of a new environment makes it all worthwhile. If you’re renting, that feeling can come with hesitation, especially with the knowledge that you might be limited to what you can do with your new nook.
Irrespective of the previous occupants or the possibly sterile nature of your new rental, there are sure-fire ways of making it your own under realistic circumstances. Read on to learn about some of the do’s and don’ts of decorating a rental property:
DO…get written permission
The tricky part with decorating a rental property is usually associated with the amount of leeway you have to do as you wish. In order to establish some basic ground rules for your decorating plans, sign an agreement with your landlord that gives you the go-ahead to move forward with your plans for change. In doing so, you’ll have an idea of what you can work with and, most importantly, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. For more info, reach out to estate agents in wakefield or your local area who can fill you in on renter’s rights even before contacting your landlord.
DON’T…use wallpaper
Despite its trend-setting appeal, wallpaper tends to be a mess when it comes to removing it. Needless to say, your landlord won’t be too pleased in having to handle that task so we suggest avoiding it altogether. Look into decals or stencils instead as these can be just as decorative but much less of a nuisance.
DO…accessorise
Accessorising with curtains, lamps, plants, rugs and other accents is an excellent way of adding your own unique style and flair to your new rental space. The lack of permanency of accessories is an additional bonus, as you can add and remove pieces as you go along.
DON’T…invest too much
Investing in pieces that you will eventually take along with you wherever you go is certainly worth every penny. However, spending your hard earned cash on structural features in an apartment that you know is a temporary home is not. Mouldings, cabinets, counters and other such features are quite costly and you’ll never own them so what’s the point in investing in them in the first place? Don’t invest in what you know is ultimately not yours to keep.
DO…paint
Perhaps you don’t like the hardwood floors or the kitchen cabinets aren’t to your liking? Knowing that the structural elements of your new space would be very different if you were in charge is a tough realisation to deal with. Even though it’s a sticky situation to be in (given that you’re not prepared to invest the large sum of money that might be needed to renovate), there is one clear-cut way of completely changing the mood of a place without taking a huge chunk of your budget away. That’s painting of course. Painting is the most cost effective way of transforming an old and tired looking space into one that matches your style while bringing a whole new look and feel to the area.
Rental properties can be tricky to customise but by keeping these do’s and don’ts of decorating in mind, you’ll soon realise that putting your own stamp on your new home is totally achievable.
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