Renter-Friendly Home Improvements
If you’re anything like me, you’re probably very inspired in your day-to-day life by your surroundings. Because of this, I find myself needing to work in a space that not only brings me inspiration, but also joy. A space that is my style, aesthetically pleasing and well decorated are key to keeping me a happy girl in whatever space I’m in — but, what if you’re renting? How can you update a space without getting in trouble with your landlord? Well, since I’m also a renter, I’m here to tell you some little tips and tricks I’ve learned while updating my space!
Image Credit: myhackedapartment
COUNTERTOP CONTACT PAPER
A key factor in updating a rental space is making sure that it can easily be reverted back to the way it was when you first moved into your rental space. We all know that a coat of paint is a quick fix, but what about things like your extremely dated kitchen and bathroom countertops? Have you ever heard of countertop contact paper? If not, you may want to order some! It’s essentially a giant sticker that you can stick to your countertops to cover up the ones you have — all you do is stick, cut around anything like sinks or taps, and there you have it! When it’s time for you to move on from this rental, just peel it off, and throw it away.
FRAMED ART & SHELVING
Though this may seem a bit obvious, some people are worried about leaving holes in the walls of their rentals & if they’ll be penalized for it. Check your provincial/state laws around this, but if it’s allowed, go for it! If you’re not allowed to put holes in the walls, 3M Picture Hanging Strips are your new go-to, since they won’t leave any residue or holes in your wall.
Top Image Credit: persnicketyprints.com | Bottom Image Credit: greigedesign.com
FRESH PAINT
Did you know that paint is the cheapest way to update a space & bring more value to a property? It’s true! Ask just about anyone. Now, when it comes to painting, you always want to contact your landlord first to make sure they don’t mind you painting — some will ask that you paint it back the original colour, some may say to leave it as is depending on the colour you use, or in some cases, maybe your provincial/state laws mean you can’t paint. Always make sure you can first!
SWAP OUT DRAWER PULLS & CABINET KNOBS
If you’re in an older rental, there’s a good chance that you might see some relatively dated drawer pulls & cabinet knobs. If you’re wanting to give your kitchen or bathroom a little more of an updated feel, pick out some black or brass knobs & pulls to replace them with, and hold onto the original ones in a space place so that when you move out, you can easily swap them back.
SWITCH OUT THE LIGHTING
Lastly, one that I personally feel makes one of the biggest differences — swapping out your lighting! When we moved into our place, the light in the dining room was very dated, so we decided to swap it out with a more modern rattan one, and we did this all ourselves (just make sure your breaker is off and you know what you’re doing with electrical!). However, this tip does require you to have a storage space for the old light so that when you move, you can hang it back up, but as long as you have that space, it’s a great & easy fix!
Those are my tips & tricks for renter-friendly home improvements! Who doesn’t love to have a space that’s not only updated, but reflects their personality a bit more too, even if you are in a rental space?!
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