The best mindset any renter should have is treating their rental as their very own home instead of just a 12 month rental. However, others find this difficult to do especially those who used to have their own house and transitioned to renting.
Instead of feeling half-hearted about your rental situation, why not enjoy the moment and make the most out of it? Here are 10 tips to feel 'at home' in your rental according to Apartment Therapy:
Change out the lights
You can set the design tone of your rental by changing the lighting into something more 'homey' instead of the harsh and drab fluorescent light. Get new ones and preferably go for lower wattage bulbs to achieve that intimate vibe in your 'home'.
Live by the idea of "home sweet home"
The fact that you're living in a rental shouldn't stop you from enjoying the roof above your head and having a place where you can enjoy, relax, and unwind. Live in the perspective that it is your "home sweet home".
Save your boxes
Save up on up to $40 or so and take apart your moving boxes after you finished unpacking and put them in the closet or under your bed.
Buy a toolbox
It is your home (for now) and you want to be able to fix whatever you can and are allowed to. So, getting a small toolbox with all the standard tools that every household should have like a hammer, nails, screwdriver, etc. is a good way to start and help you in settling in when you move.
Get rid of the "box" that you may keep lugging around with you
You want your 'home' to be as organized as possible, so you should consider letting go of whatever baggage that you don't plan of unpacking that would probably just take your already limited space. If it's important, then you should be able to find it a place. If it is not, then just get rid of them.
Paint
One of the best ways you can feel 'at home' in your rental is having it in a color that reminds you of 'home'. Ask your landlord about the possibility of getting new paint; if it's not allowed, you can resort to temporary wallpaper which is also a great alternative. This project should cost you not more than $50.
Use your walls
Fill your rental space with things you love. Hang your favorite photos or artwork on the wall (it's easy to fill holes when you leave) and make the space more personal.
Invest in pieces that you know you will keep
You don't need to wait until you own a place to invest in pieces that you love. You can have them now and use them so they are ready long after your leave your rental.
Unpack all your stuff
It will be easier for you to settle in your new rental place if you unpack all your things at once so you can see what you have.
