3 ways to make your rental feel more like a home
Teleisha Thomas
April 2026
Although owning a home has long been hailed as the ‘Australian Dream’, for many people at different stages of their lives, renting is the most viable option for freedom, flexibility, and financial choice.
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 it’s important to understand your rights and responsibilities as a renter under current Victorian legislation.
Victoria’s current rental legislation provides renters with greater clarity and protections, particularly around minimum standards, repairs, and personalising a home. These requirements help ensure rental properties meet baseline safety and liveability expectations. If you are unsure about what you can and can’t do in your rental home, we recommend speaking with your property manager or referring to Consumer Affairs Victoria for further guidance.
Get insurance
For peace of mind, it can be helpful for renters to secure insurance. Generally, most rental providers hold insurance for the property itself, however this does not cover any damage or loss to a renter’s belongings, regardless of how the damage occurs.
Aesthetics!
The fun one. One of the great joys of renting is that you can have all the fun of practising and trying different aesthetics until you find something you like, without incurring any major costs.
Art
The RTA amendments allow renters to make certain minor modifications to a property, such as installing picture hooks, to personalise their space. In some cases, consent from the rental provider may still be required; however, this consent must not be unreasonably refused.
Another way to arrange art is by leaning them against fireplaces, bookshelves and walls.
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 larger and brighter, and they’re also an excellent alternative to wall art. Try a large vintage floor mirror leaned against a 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.
Renters now have more opportunities than ever to make a rental home feel distinctly their own, all while respecting the property and avoiding major structural changes.
