3 ways to make your rental feel more like a home

Although owning a home has long been hailed an ‘Australian Dream’, for many people at different stages of their lives, renting is the most viable option for freedom, flexibility and funds.

In this article, we show you how with styling flair and clever interventions, you can make your rental property feel just like home.

Know your rights and responsibilities

Renting a property involves a number of legalities and your rights and responsibilities as a renter have recently changed. It is worthwhile getting up to speed on the 2021 changes so you know what you can and can’t do as a renter. See more. Contact your property manager if you have any questions about the rights and responsibilities of both the renter and renter provider.

Get insurance

For peace of mind, it can be helpful for renters to secure insurance. Generally, most rental providers get insurance to cover the property however this does not cover any damage to a renter’s belongings, regardless of how the damage occurred.

Aesthetics!

The fun one. One of the great joys of renting is that you can have all the fun of practicing and trying different aesthetics until you find something you like, without incurring any major costs.

Art

The RTA amendments allow renters to fit hooks to hang art without seeking approval from the rental provider – a significant alteration to the Act which benefits renters trying to put their stamp on a rental property. Another way to arrange art is by leaning them against fireplaces, bookshelves and walls. For affordable options, try the Darwin Art Fair, Sunday Salon, Blue Thumb and Cream Town.

Coat stand

Coat stands will imbue personality as soon as you enter a house and are also a great option for rooms short on storage.

Bookcases

Displaying books throughout your rental home is a great way to create a cosy, inviting and eclectic environment. Outside of just bookcases, you can also stack books on a bedside or coffee table.

Mirrors

Mirrors are a great way to make a space feel bigger and they’re another alternative to art. Try a large vintage floor mirror leant against wall to make a space feel special.

Lighting

Dim overhead lighting and floor lamps can completely change a room for the better. They will soften a space and add mood and personality to the home. Some fun options are from MCM House, Cult Design and Nicholas and Alistair.

Greenery

Oversized floor plants and hanging plants make a space feel warm, tranquil and inviting. Some helpful advice for nurturing your greenery through the cold winter months is to cut your watering regime in half and shuffle your plants close to windows to maximise light during the shorter days.

Particularly after last year’s Residential Tenancy Act Amendments came into effect, renters now have more opportunities to make a rental home distinctly their own through creating creative and vibrant spaces – without making any major structural changes.

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