Are you under the age of 25? The Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University found that 78 percent of this demographic prefers to rent instead of buying their own home. Much of this push to rent comes from the flexibility and affordability it offers younger people in school or just starting out in their careers. It also suits the mobile lifestyle of many 20-year-olds who prefer to change their living arrangements or cities with ease.
Meanwhile, only around one-third of those aged 25 to 30 own their own home. While the percentage of home ownership increases with age – around two-thirds of people over 40 are homeowners – one-fifth of Americans over 55 still rent. Whether by choice or necessity, the vast majority of people in the country have rented at least once in their lives. For those who fall into this category, are you struggling to find ways to furnish your home or apartment? Here are two helpful considerations when you approach decorating your short or long-term rental:
You don't have to decorate like a college student (unless you are one)
Just because you are renting as a young person does not mean that you have to subject your home's style to second-hand futons and fold-out tables. Whether or not you have a sizable income, there are ways to own quality furniture pieces without amassing a substantial credit card bill. Focus on the key furniture pieces for your home: the bed, sofa and dining room table. While you may be able to find cute thrift-store chairs or end tables, don't compromise on investing in a quality sofa or mattress.
Poor-quality mattresses won't help you get a good night's sleep, and you may end up paying more in the end to replace your dilapidated couch if you buy one that is old or worn out. Set aside money each month to invest in at least one quality furniture piece every few months. Focusing your shopping around holiday sales will also help you save money to reinvest in other pieces.
Don't ask forgiveness, ask permission
Depending on the nature of your lease or the strictness of your landlord, you will want to get written permission before you change any physical features of your home or apartment. Some landlords may be fine with you painting an accent wall in your living room, but others may prefer you to keep your wall colors the way they are. If you fall into the latter category, hang up plenty of artwork, photos and mirrors to hide your beige or stark white walls with color and style.
Your relationship will your landlord could become severely strained or you could violate the terms of your lease if you choose the "ask forgiveness, not permission" path. Instead of moving on to your next apartment or home on a bad note, read over your lease thoroughly and check in with your landlord anytime you feel the need to update the cabinets or paint your bedroom walls. Who knows, they may even welcome your help in sprucing up the apartment.
To buy the best affordable living room furniture or modern home furnishings for your rented apartment or home, come to Arwood's Furniture & Mattress, Missouri's LARGEST Furniture Store, today! We are a proud, family-owned business whose helpful staff will tirelessly work with you to find the exact sofa, armchair, table, bedroom set or more you need to furnish your rental. Contact us to learn more!
