It’s not always possible to buy your own place, maybe you don’t have the cash, or maybe you just like the option of moving around? There are lots of reasons why you would consider renting, but sometimes a rental property can feel like you’re living in someone else’s home. From adding a splash of colour, to showing off your artistic side, we’ve put together our top tips for making your rented property feel more like a home, without leaving a dent in your deposit.

Supplement with furniture

If your property is unfurnished one of the easiest ways to make it your own is to fill it with furniture. Storage is always an issue in even the biggest of homes, and forking out for fancy inbuilt cabinets or a fitted wardrobe isn’t possible in a rental. Think about how you can make storage solutions part of your décor; modular bookshelves and units can not only open a tonne of space but are a great way to display your own books, record collection and knick-knacks. Furniture is also easily modified, think about adding a splash of paint to an old chest of drawers, or some decals to your headboard.

Finish with cushions and throws

If you’re renting a furnished property, or you’ve already blown your budget for furniture, soft furnishings can make even the cheapest couch look fancy. Cosy cushions and throws can add contrast to brilliant white walls and can be picked up for relatively low cost. If you’re thinking bolder, rugs can make a room look bigger and brighter. Bean bags and floor cushions are an ideal way to fill up empty space, as well as giving you a perfect perch for when your friends come by to visit.  On top of soft-furnishings, adding a few accessories here and there can make your home look catalogue ready. This could be anything from a few candles dotted around, some coffee table books, or even having your dining table set up ready to serve your next dinner party.

Get green-fingered

Whether you opt for artificial, or authentic - adding some greenery to your property can really brighten things up. Plants are cheap, easy to care for and easy to move to your next rental, making them relatively fuss free, which means no fall-outs with your landlord when you leave. Artificial or low-maintenance plants are the ideal solution to the forgetful plant feeder. They don’t always look plastic so shop around to find one you like.

Add a splash of colour

While whipping out the paint and overalls might seem like a great idea- reading your tenancy agreement is important to find out if you’re allowed to do any major decorating. This includes painting the walls, hanging wallpaper, or even nailing up pictures. If you are allowed, a quick lick of paint can make a rental home feel more like your own and if that’s too much commitment, a few pieces of art, a family photo or a funky wall-hanging can help put your creative stamp on the place. Adhesives, decals and thin nails are another way to hang art without ruining the walls too. If you’re feeling particularly creative you can even lean larger pictures against the wall.

Let there be light

Lighting is the perfect solution if you’re feeling a bit gloomy in your rental. A floor lamp is not always cheap, but a good one can be transforming of any room, and a worthwhile investment in the long run. Light shades are also cheap and easy to change, and be a great way to pull the whole room together by having them match your soft furnishings. Table lamps are a small way to get the same effect.

Feeling wintry or just want an extra bit of colour? A string of fairy lights does the trick.

Are you searching for your perfect rental? Why not use our rental search function to find the ideal home to put our top tips into practice.