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One of the most commonly heard cons to renting is that you can't alter the state of the home. What you see is what you get. If a tenant isn't particularly fond of the kitchen flooring or wall paint, well, tough luck to them. Most landlords don't allow renovations or remodeling in their rental units.
If you're looking to spruce up your rental home, you're in luck! We're telling you 6 renter-friendly hacks that you can totally do without breaking the bank (or making your landlord mad).
Hack #1: Install temporary wallpaper
Removable wallpaper has become one of the greatest hacks for renters. It can add a lot of charm and character to your rental apartment.
Temporary wallpaper and murals in nooks or for small spaces will allow space to pop. Additionally, peel-and-stick wallpaper leaves no mess behind. That means getting your full security deposit back!
We aren’t going to lie, wallpaper can be labor-intensive, but nowadays there are some great options out there that are easy to install and remove.
You can also make your own wallpaper using pages from quirky books, pictures, or prints!
Hack #2: Get new window treatments
Good window treatments don’t feel necessary (especially if you have blinds that come with the space). However, adding a new curtain or shades in a barren room will make your rental unit feel like a home.
Most of the time, it’s very doable to find affordable options. Check out any big department store to find cheap curtain rods and shades.
If sleep is important to you, we also really recommend blackout shades.
Hack #3: Install temporary backsplash
Backsplashes are greatly overlooked in rentals. Most people don't generally replace their kitchen backsplash tile because of the time, energy, and money. That’s a job for homeowners, we say!
But, this is not to suggest that you are destined to be stuck with ugly backsplash tile or no backsplash at all. Tile is not the only option for backsplashes. Contact or peel-and-stick wallpaper will both act as great backsplash replacements!
Best of all, it'll cover up the wear-and-tear from the years of cooking and grease splashes the kitchen has experienced!
Hack #4: Use command strips to hang up wall art
Drilling 50 different holes into your wall to create the perfect gallery wall is not advised, but we know it happens.
Instead of doing that, we suggest an alternative: Use command strips or putty to hang things up on your wall.
It’ll save you money and the time replastering holes when your lease is up and happens to look really cool.
Hack #5: Install a countertop cover
We could argue that one of the most lackluster parts of most rental units is the bathroom or kitchen. If either one of those rooms has got you feeling less than excited, consider using a stick-on countertop cover.
You may need assistance on this type of project, but otherwise, the process is pretty straightforward. A new countertop will completely change the look and vibe of the room.
Additionally, it's a lot less expensive than replacing an entire countertop. You can also remove it at the end of your tenancy!
Hack #6: Replace old, leaky, or grimey faucets
This step might seem intimidating, but Youtube will walk you through the process, step-by-step. And the labor is worth it. A new matte or brass faucet makes all the difference in an otherwise run-down bathroom or kitchen.
This option is most definitely a more costly one. Nonetheless, if you plan to spend a few years in your rental unit, it could be worth it. Additionally, you could always replace the sink with its original faucet when moving out. Then all you'll have to do is put your new faucet in your next home!
Conclusion
That concludes our guide on some renter-friendly hacks you can implement to liven up your rental home!
If you're currently in the market for an apartment, head over to Lighthouse. We give our renters cash back on their leases and provide the ultimate guiding experience during your search. Our Lightkeepers (apartment search experts) help you find a home that's just right for you. Check us out here.
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