Are you a renter looking for ways to make your rental property feel more like home? If so, you’re in luck. There are a number affordable ways to upgrade your rental without making any permanent changes to the space. So whether you’re looking to add a little personality or make things a bit more comfortable, read on for some great ideas.
Temporary Upgrades
If you live in a rental home or an apartment, you may feel like you can’t make cosmetic changes to your home. But there are several ways to personalize your space without making any permanent changes. Temporary upgrades can add personality and warmth to your home without breaking the terms of your lease agreement.
Some of the most common temporary upgrades renters use to upgrade their space include:
- Stick-on backsplash
- Peel and stick wallpaper
- Upgrade cabinet hardware
- Replace builder-grade doorknobs
- Switch out light fixtures
Stick-on backsplash
One of the easiest ways to upgrade your kitchen is by installing a new backsplash. There’s no need to call in the professionals or spend hours tiling. Plenty of peel-and-stick backsplashes on the market look just like the real thing but are much easier to install. Clean the surface, apply the adhesive strips, and voilà—you’ve got a new backsplash in no time.
Peel and Stick Wallpaper
Don’t like the paint color in your rental but don’t want to go through the hassle (and expense) of painting? Consider using peel-and-stick wallpaper instead. This temporary wall covering comes in various colors and patterns, so you can easily find something to suit your taste. And best of all, it’s a breeze to apply—no professional installer is needed.
Upgrade Hardware
One of the quickest and easiest ways to upgrade any room in your rental is by simply swapping out the hardware. Don’t like the look of your kitchen cabinets? Update the pulls and knobs for something more modern. Want to add a touch of glamour to your bathroom? Get rid of those boring old towel bars and opt for something more luxurious, like bronze hooks or crystal knobs. Make sure you save all the old hardware if you don’t want it deducted from your security deposit.
Replace Builder-Grade Doorknobs
If you’re looking for an easy way to add a touch of personality to your rental, consider replacing the builder-grade doorknobs with something more unique. Replacing doorknobs is an easy D.I.Y. project that anyone can do, and it’s one of the easiest upgrades you can make to your rental home.
Switch Out Light Fixtures
Outdated light fixtures can date a space. If your rental has old brass light fixtures, consider replacing them with something more modern. This is a relatively easy project that even novice do-it-yourselfers can handle, and it’s a great way to add extra personality to your space.
Other Upgrades
In addition to temporary upgrades, there are many other ways to upgrade your rental property. If you’re looking to add a bit more flare to your apartment or rental home, consider:
- Painting the walls
- Changing switch plates
- Peel and stick tile
While not every lease allows painting, some landlords will allow you to paint as long as you repaint before the end of your lease. Painting may cost a bit more than other upgrades, but it can change the entire aesthetic of your space. Changing switch plates and outlet covers is another easy and inexpensive way to add a bit of style to your rental. And if you’re feeling ambitious, consider installing peel-and-stick tile in the kitchen or bathroom. This temporary upgrade can make a big impact and is much easier (and less messy) to install than traditional tile.
These are just a few easy ways to upgrade your rental property without making any permanent changes (or violating your lease agreement). While you may not be able to make major changes to your rental property, there are still plenty of ways to upgrade your space and make it your own. So go ahead and give your place a little makeover. Make sure you put everything back as it was when it’s time to move out. Or include these upgrades as part of your negotiating power when renewing your lease agreement.
