Furnishing Your Rental Property: 8 Tips to Keep in Mind

There are over 40 million rental units within the United States.

The need for rental homes is increasing, but so is the competition.

If you are looking to rent your home or space, you must prepare the space so that people choose you over your competitors.

Continue reading to discover some of the best furnishing tips for your rental home. Along with tips for decorating your home as well!

1. Supply the Basics

It is more common than not that rental homes and spaces come already furnished with appliances like refrigerators, ovens, stoves, and microwaves.

A lot of rentals also come with laundry machines and sometimes dishwashers. It is important to supply your tenants with these items because most of your competitors will already be including them.

This is also helpful for tenants because they may not own these appliances or have the extra money to buy them.

2. Add Extra for Short-Term Stays

Not all rental spaces are used for a long time. Some, like on Airbnb, can last a week or week.

If you are intending to rent your space out on Airbnb, you should furnish the home with seating, beds, tables, and dressers. Some people rent when they are working on a work project away from home.

Supplying people with extra furniture can help them feel at home while working without having to spend costly hotel fees.  If you don’t want to spend much on these items, you can use old pieces or get them from garage sales.

3. the More You Give the More You Get

The more energy, time, and care that you put into furnishing your rental space, the more you can charge.

A fully furnished rental home can be charged for more than a rental space without extra furniture. This is because it makes moving easier for the tenant and saves them both time and money.

Don’t forget to save the details when furnishing, there are some things that you may be able to claim on your taxes!

4. Minimize Damage

When someone moves into your rental space, there is always a chance that they may destroy items or cause damage to the home.

Supply tenants with all furnishings can prevent wear and tear on the floors and carpets. Every time that furniture is moved in or out, it runs a risk of damaged the floor and walls.

When tenants bring their furniture, there is a chance that they could get dings in the walls while moving it in. Try supplying your new tenants with tarps to cover the floors when moving in or out to keep your place protected.

5. Think Before You Furnish

It is always important to thoroughly plan for scenarios when furnishing a home or rental space.

If you decide to fully furnish your space, but your tenant doesn’t want the furniture, you will need to have a plan. In this situation, you will either have to decline the tenant and keep the furniture inside or move the furniture out.

Some people move furniture but have no space and need a storage unit. Unfortunately, storage units cost you extra money. You can check local competitors to see what types of rentals sell the best.

Also, short term rental furniture can be helpful if you own an Airbnb or have a special request.

6. Remember the Outside

Many renters tend to neglect the outside furnishing because they are so focused on the inside.

It is important to think about the yard and what you want to offer your tenants. A BBQ grill is recommended to have for your tenants, along with plants and flowers. Depending on where your rental is located, the furnishings may change.

7. Get Easy to Clean Materials

Furnishing your rental can become costly if you are constantly replacing dirty and broken furniture.

You should be purchasing curtains and furniture with an easy to clean material like canvas and cotton. Patterns can help cover up stains, that were hopefully cleaned up and make it look less dirty.

White is always a good option to go with when renting because you can quickly wash it with bleach.

8. Include Storage Space

Renting your home requires a lot of things, but don’t forget to leave some storage space free for tenants.

If you plan to store items in the home, locked up, you need to take up as little space as possible. Tenants will require extra space, especially if they are staying long-term.

Airbnb rentals should also have adequate storage space for people to unpack and put away luggage.

Furnishing Your Home

Furnishing doesn’t stop at your rental home, it should also be something that you consider for your place.

The first thing that you should do is identify a preferred style. Modern homes will require different decor and types of furniture than a rustic home would have. Combining styles can give a unique look, but be sure that it isn’t too distracting.

You should be considering your lifestyle when furnishing at home. If you sleep late or take naps in the day, it may be a good idea to find light-shielding curtains.

A great way to furnish your home, especially if you are limited on space, is by getting dual-purpose items. Ottomans that have storage can clean the place up and even work as extra seating!

Home Sweet Home

If you want your rental property vacated, one of the best ways to do so is by furnishing it with items, making it feel like home.

Whether you are doing long-term rental agreements or Airbnb style, a furnished home will surely impress tenants. You can also identify designs and styles in your home by looking at your lifestyle.

Depending on where your rental is located and the needs of your tenants, you should furnish both the inside and outside of the home. Storage space and laundry machines access are also a plus for those looking to rent!

Be sure to check out our blog for more articles on interior design tips and inspiration for your home!