How To... Create A Cozy Space With Ease
Because of the tough economy, many long-time homeowners are now
finding themselves returning to the days of renting. When you are living
in “someone else’s” house, it can be hard to make it feel like your
own. Follow these easy steps to make your rental house feel as
comfortable as your favorite reading chair.
Many former homeowners are deciding to rent instead, free of
mortgage constraints. Even though it is nice to avoid the property
taxes, interest rates and falling home values, it can be difficult to
transition from owning a home you can do anything with to living in
someone else's home with rules to follow. These steps will help you go
from feeling like a guest to being ready to host your first
get-together.
Step 1: Read the rules
Read through your entire rental agreement for guidance on what you
can and cannot do to the interior and exterior of your home. If you do
not see information on things like painting walls, hanging pictures or
moving items that are not your own, ask for clarification. Get any and
all clarification in writing.
Step 2: Work with what you have
If you are unable to paint, put holes in the walls or change the
landscaping outside, start looking for creative alternatives to make the
home feel more like your own. When you are unsure of whether a change
will be within the guidelines of your rental agreement, check with your
landlord. It never hurts to check and doublecheck -- and check again.
Step 3: Find alternatives to paint and wallpaper
There are many attractive options for decorating walls that can be easily removed. For kids' rooms, there are wall decals that will make you forget you ever pined for
paint. If you want to spruce up your room or add some spice to your
kitchen, try sites like
Etsy or
Allposters.com for unique wall decor ideas.
Step 4: Hang pictures without holes
If you can't stand an empty wall or a hallway that isn't lined with
photos of your family, don't despair. Many manufacturers now make
products that will hang your pictures or artwork without a single nail.
Try products from the 3M Command line that allow you to hang pretty much anything without ever picking up a hammer.
Step 5: Scope out stand-alone decor
Wander through the aisles of your favorite store for home supplies
and you can find stand-alone options for anything, from holding your
toilet paper to displaying your wine collection. There are countless
ways to work with a "no hammer and nail rule" in your rental find. Even a
potted plant in the corner or a lamp you love can make you feel at home
again.
Step 6: Liven up your landscape
Maybe you had a gorgeous garden at your last home or loved planting
flowers every spring but now you don't have the space or the privilege
to rearrange the landscaping outside your house. Spend some time at your
local nursery and find a hanging plant or two. If you have some
must-haves when it comes to growing your own fruits and vegetables, you
can always plant them in clay pots or even grow herbs on your windowsill
or balcony.
Step 7: Enjoy!
Whether renting was your first choice or your only option, there are
countless ways to bring your own sense of style and make it work for
you. Spend a little time channeling your creative side and your rental
house will be a home in no time!
Reference:
Jessica Watson
She Know How To
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