Six cheap and easy ways renters can modernise a tired old rental

There’s a long list of cheap and easy ways to modernise a tired old rental, without breaking the bank – or the conditions of your lease.

Indoor plants and even branches displayed in tall pots make quite an impact. Picture: Pillow Talk

In a high demand, low supply rental market, it can be easy to find yourself paying top dollar for a property that isn’t in top condition.

While renters can’t do anything drastic to improve a “blank canvas” rental property, there are some cheap and easy ways to modernise a tired old rental in keeping with the terms of your tenancy.

But before you start looking for ways to turn drab into fab, it’s important to know exactly what you can and can’t do.

An artful mix of colours and textures plus plants can transform an otherwise bland or drab home. Picture: Pillow Talk

WHAT CHANGES CAN RENTERS MAKE?

While the rules for tenants vary across the states and territories, most stipulate that any change to the property itself first needs written approval from the landlord.

The exception is in Victoria, where tenants can put in new curtains and install picture hooks or wall mounts for shelves or brackets without permission, as long as the walls aren’t concrete or exposed brick and the property is not heritage listed.

In NSW, renters do need permission from their landlord, however, since such changes are deemed “reasonable”, the landlord cannot refuse permission unless they have a good reason.

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Sophie Thomson suggests using container plants to spruce up a rental. Picture: Fawcett Media.

MAKE A GARDEN ROOM

Since renters move about, it’s better to use design hacks that move with them, says gardening expert Sophie Thomson. She recommends a spruce up using an array of potted plants both inside and out.

“Group your pots together and you can create some amazing spaces, which when combined with table and chairs or a comfy bench will make ‘garden rooms’,” she says.

Artificial plants are another option, says Nikki Hoskins, head stylist for homewares retailer Pillow Talk. eBay data shows the sale of artificial plants surged 280 per cent last year as renters looked for cost-effective ways to garnish their homes.

Cut flowers also work wonders, says founder of Vault Interiors, Justine Wilson.

“If you have pretty trees surrounding you, a small cutting or large branch in a rustic pot sets the tone and creates a nice green cluster,” Wilson says. “If it’s over-size it looks even more impressive, especially in the centre of a table or on an entry console.”

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Art makes a big difference to the look of a room.

CREATE A GALLERY

Hanging artwork is another simple way to spruce up your home while adding your own personality. In most states you will need to ask the landlord’s permission to hammer or drill into the walls, says director of Ayre Real Estate, Adrian Wilson.

“Be prepared to patch and paint any marks caused by hanging artworks at the end of the tenancy,” he says.

Adhesive hooks are another option, “otherwise, you can lean (artworks),” Hoskins says. “You can also cluster pieces together as a gallery wall (and) play with colour and sizes that are complementary.”

Art can be leaned against the wall to avoid the use of hooks.

REMOVABLE STYLE

Mirrors are an option that can make the space seem larger. eBay data shows the purchase of removable mirrors went up 110 per cent last year as the “mirror wall” TikTok trend went viral.

Other removable options include self-adhesive tiles, which you can buy online or at Kmart. These allow you to modernise an outdated splashback and can be removed at the end of your tenancy. Just make sure you follow the correct procedures for removal to avoid any lingering residue.

ARM YOUR PAINT BRUSH

If your walls are scuffed and no amount of elbow grease will get them clean, a new coat of paint could work wonders – with the owner’s permission.

You’ll need the owner’s permission to repaint the property.

You could even paint your own furniture to create a different look, Wilson says.

“For a cosy and moody feel, consider a dark paint colour like navy, charcoal or deep green, or the opposite if you wish to have a bright fun room go for colours like yellow or pink,” he says. “Be mindful that this is still the owner’s asset. Anything that’s requested should be in keeping with the landlord’s ability to attract future tenants at market rent in future.”

In other words, it’s best to keep the wall paint scheme neutral.

FURNITURE THAT MAKES AN IMPACT

Hoskins says it pays to be smart when buying furniture. She suggests buying quality pieces and dressing them with on- trend accessories.

“Where you can, opt for additional storage space,” she says. “Add in sculptural furniture pieces such as upholstered bed heads, interesting shaped and textured side tables, and decor to suit your interior style.”

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founder of Vault Interiors, Justine Wilson.

FINISHING TOUCHES

Hoskins says rugs with contrasting colours or textures can work wonders, as can trinkets and knick-knacks that suit your personal taste. These can be purchased cheaply at op shops or online second-hand sale sites.

Swapping out cushions can also add plenty of effect when restyling, says Wilson. She suggests choosing warm tones during the cooler months and changing to blues or citrus tones for summer.

“Bringing in textures is also a good way to change the feel, like wool, faux fur, or linens,” she says.

Originally published as Six cheap and easy ways renters can modernise a tired old rental