10 tips to turn your rental into a home

It is definitely possible to have the style and feel of home ownership, whilst having the flexibility of renting. There are a number of ways that you can make your rental feel more like home. We have put together the 10 top tips for you to ensure that you are comfortable in your rental home.

1. Talk to your landlord/property manager

Build a transparent and trusting relationship with your property manager. When you’ve upheld your lease obligations in a timely and friendly way, then ask for additional permission to style your home. In many instances, property managers will be happy for tenants to undertake minor cosmetic changes if they improve the current condition of the property. However, it is important to discuss this with your landlord or property manager and seek written permission.

Rental reforms are enabling tenants to update their home so check your local tenant union or consumer affairs for details. If you are able to hang art, do so! Add your own flare with art that makes you feel at home.

2. Indoor plants

Bring life to your rental by adding plants. Greenery brings warmth to a room and will help purify the air. You don’t need a green thumb to have indoor plants, here’s a list of a number of plants that don’t require much attention - bhg.com.au/indoor-plants-best-house-plants

3. Experiment with lighting

Floor lamps or additional lighting fixtures that emit warm temperature shades of light can add a homey feel to your space. The lighting needed will depend on your rental and the positioning of any windows so play around to work out what is best for you.

4. Rugs

Add your own flare with a rug. If you want to cover an outdated carpet or add warmth to a tile floor, rugs can bring life to your home. Be careful of creating trip hazards, especially for older people.

5. Bring your bed to life

Choose bedding that matches the colour scheme of the space and your furniture. Use contrasting colours to add life and style to any bedroom.

6. Accessorize

Adding accessories such as clocks, candles, vases or books can bring vibrance to your space and add a personal touch to make you feel at home in your rental.

7. Invest in freestanding furniture

In a rental, freestanding furniture (such as a bedhead or armchair) can be your best friend. There is no fuss with getting approval from your landlord or property manager, and it can add an extra element of style to your space.

8. Get creative with storage

When renting, sometimes finding storage space can be a challenge. To overcome this, utilise unused space (i.e. underneath a bed), and use smart storage such as bookshelves that add a stylish aesthetic to your home.

9. Mirrors

Large mirrors can be propped against a wall, and create an illusion of space. Positioning a mirror opposite a window enhances the natural light in a room and can help brighten your space. Be careful to secure mirrors especially if there are small children in the home.

10. Feel pride in your home

Lastly, feel comfortable and proud of your rental! It is your home - you should enjoy spending time in your space and continue to add elements to make your rental more homely. Regular cleaning and keeping your home decluttered will provide a healthy and happy home for you and your family and friends to visit,

Happy Renting!