Further Reading

You are generally not allowed to do much major interior redecorating when you rent an apartment. If you are renting a home, there may still be restrictions but you will probably have a bit more leniency in what you want to do, depending on the personality and preferences of the homeowner. There may still be restrictions on what you can do with the home's interior if the landlord does not want to see major modifications of the home. On the other hand, some homeowners would like to see the property improved and that is why they are renting it in the first place. The latter type of owner may allow the renter a great deal of freedom in their decorating options.

When Renting a Home, What Is the Extent of Change Allowed?

Your budget should be the first consideration before you spend anything on improving the rental home. They say that renting is flushing your money down the toilet ... spending a lot of money on improvements is like flushing your money down several toilets. You get nothing back other than improved living conditions or perhaps a grateful landlord who benefits from your money and work.

Some homeowners may allow the renter to make minor decorating changes such as changing the drapes or blinds, hanging pictures or painting the walls. Extensive decorating work like putting in new carpet, installing more windows or taking down walls might not be considered acceptable by some landlords. The homeowner might approve of this type of extensive work so long as the work is to be done by a a licensed contractor. Think about it ... why on earth should you spend a lot of money and time in making major improvements to a home that you do not own when you receive no tax or other benefit? You are better off compromising your tastes with minor interior decorations and improvements and saving the money you would spend on interior renovations for a down payment on your own home.

Before Redecorating, Check with the Homeowner

The first thing to do is to read your lease. The lease contract might clearly prohibit certain improvements. It is unlikely that the lease will spell out each and every possible type of interior decor activity, so check with the homeowner before making modifications to the rental house. It is a good idea to get a written approval by the homeowner of your interior design plans.

Not Sure What Is Allowed? Then Do Nothing

As a renter, if you're not sure whether you can perform a specific decorating activity and you are unable to reach the landlord, it's best to not make any changes. Being cautious will save you time and money in the long run, especially if the homeowner demands that you to undo the changes.

Some Inexpensive Decorating Tips

Regardless of whether you are renting a home from a person who permits a lot of changes or is very restrictive, there are some easy things that you can do to upgrade the home decor. Best yet, you can keep these improvements and make a bit of money from them at a yard sale before moving to your next home (preferably, the one you buy) instead of investing in someone else's home that will not benefit you in the long haul.

RUGS - If the flooring in the rental home is stained or just plain ugly, cover it up with throw rugs or area rugs.

ART AND PLANTS - If the wallpaper is hideous and you're not allowed to repaint or change the wallpaper, hide it with some nice artwork. Large, leafy houseplants like Ficus trees add a touch of class to a home and can cover otherwise ugly spaces.

DECORATIVE FURNITURE - Attractive furnishings can change the look of a rental home. Futons offer an affordable decorating option. Mix and match your furnishings with futon covers, available in a variety of colors and patterns that can change the look of a room. Spice your futons up with some colorful throw pillows and the room will take on a whole new appearance. If your rental home has tiny little rooms and you are not allowed to knock out walls, futons are practical and decorative furniture options. Use them as a couch or chair by day and a bed at night.

LIGHTING - The right lamps can create a sense of ambiance and draw the eye toward art or other features in the room instead of the defects. Traditional lamps, canister lamps or tree lamps can be used to direct light. Just plug them in and don't worry about having to change the light fixtures or having to install dimmer switches.

Urbain Beck loves to write ... and also loves the versatility and economy of futons. Begin your rental home redecoration by taking a look at the incredible futon designs that are available nowadays at http://www.futonheaven.com. Change the mood of any room by adding colorful or designer futon covers and throw pillows to your rental home furnishings.