Renting: How To Make The House A Home (On The Cheap)
As I’m currently looking for a new rental property, Angela Self’s article in the Globe and Mail very much resonated. Sometimes it’s necessary, in order to make your rental property liveable, to spend some time on some House R&R. But what are some ways to renovate your rental property without breaking the bank?
Declutter
My ex-flatemate used to say I was like water. if you open up any space, I was sure to fill it. I don’t mean to clutter things- it just seems to happen without me noticing.If you’re crawling over piles of books, can’t get to your bed because of all the picture frames on the floor and can’t find a seat because all the chairs are holding your clothes, you need to declutter. It’s very hard (Angela Self suggests nigh on impossible) to revamp your look if you’re surrounded by piles of junk. Go through everything you own. Sell or pass on anything you don’t use. Toss anything that’s broken or unusable. Buy some proper storage for the things you want to keep. It’ll make your house look 100% more liveable, and will allow you to have a better idea about how else you might want to change the look of the rooms.
Look Closer
If you’re bored with everything you own, don’t call for a skip and start afresh. If you’re furniture is looking tired, think about painting it or restaining it. Maybe you need some brighter colours, or could sow new covers for the couch? There are a million ideas on the internet about ways to spruce up your home. Think about different uses you can put items to. Can something be adapted to become outdoor furniture? Could the odd little nooks and crannies inherent in rental properties be put to use as storage spaces? Get creative about your home and it’ll look all the better for it.
DIY
DIY needs to be used in selective situations. Do not DIY major plumbing problems or a leaky roof. But if you think you can tackle it, get armed with Google and maybe a handy friend and go for it. Small jobs can be done much more easily (sometimes) than anticipated, and you’ll have the glow of being handy round the house to boot.
Colour
Colour is an essential for anywhere I am living. Especially if the room is dark, then splashes of colour can make all the difference to a house. Paint a feature wall, or change the colour of a room to a lighter shade to make use of the light. Have bright cushions, cupboard doors, throws. Don’t spend a huge amount, especially if you’re painting. Have a budget and stick to it.
The Hunt
You don’t necessarily need everything now. Once you’ve decluttered and freshened everything up, resolve to slowly look for great statement pieces of furniture, without any hurry. Keep your ear out for any family members who are downsizing and might be getting rid of furniture. Mosy through flea markets, auctions or second-hand stores in case something catches your eye. Limit yourself to really great pieces, and you house will slowly become your own little renter’s paradise.
Related Posts
