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Our blog.

Our blog

10 ways to make your rental feel more like home.

As a tenant you may not own the property you’re living in, but that doesn’t mean you can’t make it your own. In this blog, our agents outline 10 ways to help transform your rental property into somewhere that feels much more like home.

Decorate.

Lighting, paint colours, flooring, and fittings can make a world of difference in creating an environment that showcases your taste. But before you make any changes to the property, make sure you check in first with your property manager. Permission is typically needed to make these kinds of updates and, where possible, removable or reversible options should be used.

Personalise.

Nothing says home like photographs, meaningful trinkets, eclectic collectibles, and curated furniture. Furnishings, while cosmetic, can make a huge difference to the look and feel of a property, lifting a neutral palette into an expression of personal preference. Add plants, a fruit bowl or a vase of flowers to create a welcoming atmosphere. Arrange furniture in a way that maximises the space. Add a rug or a lamp to create an ambience. Position a picture frame or a piece of art on a shelf or windowsill for all to see.

Read more about styling a rental property. 

Treat the property like it is your own.

Take pride in ownership of your rental property by taking care of it. This will not only make you feel more at home, but it will also ensure the return of your security deposit at the end of your tenancy.

Maintain privacy.

Throughout your tenancy, your property managers will need to conduct inspections to ensure that the property remains in a condition true to your entry report. Your property manager should respect that the property is your home and try to balance your privacy with the need to fulfill their requirements to the property owner. To help with the process, it is essential to have clear communication with your property manager to organise inspections at times that benefit you both.

Know your rights and responsibilities.

Renting a property involves a number of legalities. Each state has a governing body that dictates tenants’ rights and responsibilities. To ensure you feel completely comfortable and at home, check the appropriate website and read the latest information: NSW, QLD, VIC, WA, SA, TAS, NT. Contact your property manager if you have any questions about your rights and responsibilities. 

Think safety first.

Creating a home means feeling safe and secure; it is, therefore, essential to be aware and keep on top of all compliance matters at the rental – e.g., locks, security devices, smoke detectors, fire alarms, pools, utilities, etc. Each state in Australia has different compliance requirements. Your property manager should be able to supply you with compliance certificates for all requirements.

Keep on top of maintenance and repairs.

The property manager is responsible for ensuring the premise is maintained in a sound manner to make you feel at home. Your tenancy agreement should outline a process for maintenance and repairs. If maintenance and repairs are required, you should contact the property manager to fix issues so you can feel as comfortable as possible in the space.

Make your pet feel at home.

Not all properties allow pets. If you’re looking for a property with your furry friend, it is essential to include this in your brief, look for stipulations in the lease, and keep it top of mind when attending inspections – paying close attention to pet-friendly features like fences, cat doors, flooring choices, etc. If your pet feels at home, so will you.

Get insurance.

All landlords take out insurance to cover the property; however, this insurance usually does not cover any damage to your belongings, regardless of how the damage occurred. Therefore, we recommend all of our tenants get their own contents insurance for peace of mind. 

Foster a productive relationship with your property manager.

Property managers act as conduits between tenants and landlords, handling inspections, leases, rent payments, legalities, and day-to-day demands. They are employed not just to represent the landlord, but you too. Make sure you note the best method for communicating with your property manager, save their phone number and email, and check in with them regularly to foster a healthy and productive relationship. A great relationship with your property manager will give you peace of mind and make you feel more comfortable in your rental. 

Feel at home in your next rental with Belle Property. Learn more about renting with us and search our current apartments and homes for lease.