Easy Ways to Upgrade Your Rental

We all want to live in a home that reflects who we are, and this can sometimes be difficult if you’re living in a rental. However, there are many easy and reversible ways to upgrade your rental without putting your security deposit in jeopardy. We’ve compiled a list of our favorite ideas to enhance your rental home’s decor. Additionally, none of these require power tools, just a screwdriver and a little effort. Before getting started, make sure to consult your rental agreement and ask your landlord or property manager if you're unsure about anything.

Get Rental Friendly Contact Paper

Adhesive contact paper was specifically made for people living in rental homes. The concept is simple. Choose a pattern of your liking and simply peel and stick. It can really enhance kitchen counters, tiles, and even floors sometimes. Applying contact paper can be a little tricky at first, so watch this tutorial video.

Swap Out Handles and Door Knobs

If your kitchen or bathroom has outdated cabinet hardware, consider updating them. New handles and door knobs can really add a touch of modern to an outdated space.  And, this project doesn't require any drilling. Check out local hardware stores or shop for these items online. Once they arrive, you'll have an updated look in minutes.

Purchase New Curtains

Curtains are perfect for personalizing a living room. Not only can curtains add ambiance, but they can also control how much light enters into a space and provide a soft glow. Afraid of drilling holes? No worries, tension rods are a lifesaver and extremely rental friendly. And, the way you hang your curtains can dramatically change the look of a room. Make sure to avoid these mistakes.

Replace the Shower Head

Not thrilled with your shower? Well, you can greatly improve it by getting a new shower head. You can find new shower heads at your local hardware store or online and re-install it easily. This quick-fix combines both functionality and aesthetics to enhance your bathroom. Just remember to keep the old shower head for when you move out. 

Add Temporary Decorative Tiles

If your rental home has a bland balcony or patio, that's an easy problem to solve.  Simply add temporary decorative tiles to give it a more rustic appearance. There are tons of patterns to choose from to match your style. Additionally, decorative tiles can be quite affordable, easy to install, and extremely renter-friendly. 

Use Hooks Creatively

Take advantage of the vertical space in your rental home with decorative yet functional peel and stick hooks. You can use them to help declutter a space and as part of your decor to hang wall art, kids' art projects, a hat or scarf collection, etc.  Just make sure you remove them correctly when you move.