Living in a rental doesn't have to mean that you come home to a soulless dwelling place. Most rental spaces offer standard-grade appliances, budget finishes, and that old classic, "Apartment White" walls.
A little décor shouldn't hurt your security deposit if you are playing your cards right. Here are 6 rental improvements that you can do and their corresponding risk to your security deposit according to Trulia:
Low risk: Creating a gallery wall
One way to bring character to a room in the design sense without causing much damage is by crafting an arrangement of photos and artwork that spans a wall. Of course there will be nail holes, but you can just easily fill those in before you move out of the place. But if you don't want to be bothered, just use stick-on picture hooks but consider that they usually only work with lightweight pieces.
Low risk: Adjusting the light
Along with the perks of living in a rental comes a sad piece of fluorescent overhead fixture that doesn't help in making the space feel homey. An easy solution is by incorporating more lighting at eye level or higher in the form of table lamps, plug-in scones, or floor lamps.
Lowest-of-the-low risk: Adding a rug
One of the biggest surfaces in any room is the floor and you can create a huge impact by bringing in a colorful element on it. A nice piece of rug in the right size will not only enhance the look of your space, you will also protect the floor from damage which is a good thing for your security deposit.
Medium risk: Replacing hardware
Replacing the handles and knobs of cabinets or doors into more stylish pieces shouldn't be complicated. It's really just loosening a few screws and tightening a few others. However, be extra careful not to damage the finish of the cabinet or losing the original hardware.
Medium risk: Decals
Applying decals should only be a considered a low risk, right? However, with so many varieties in the market, it's hard to tell which ones act more like a duct tape and peel off a layer of paint when you remove them when your lease is up.
High risk: Paint
Most landlords frown upon paint, but it's not entirely non-negotiable. Check your lease and see if there is anything about getting a new paint, or better yet, ask your landlord. Maybe you could paint as long as it's not a strong color. To be sure, hold out on that plan until you establish a history as a good tenant. It would also help to have paint samples ready to show your landlord as well as your idea on where you'd use it.