How to decorate a rental property

Decorating a rental property correctly is as important as taking out landlord insurance, so think about it carefully. Make your place look great without breaking the bank and feel pleased with your achievement – here’s how.

Decorate it for your market

It may sound simple, but it’s important to decorate your house to suit your market. You’re not going to be living in the property, so opt for neutral colours where possible. Red walls and a gold carpet might look great to you, but bright shades might put tenants off. Choose colours that make the room look clean and fresh (like cream, pale pink and beige) and opt for matching furnishings for a touch of class. Go slightly darker with the carpet (as light colours show up a lot of dirt) and put down large rugs to cover the floor.

Take care with DIY

If you’re planning on decorating yourself, make sure you know what you’re doing. A bodged paint job will look awful, so always proceed with care. Never start a job if you don’t have time to finish it and call in a professional if you’re struggling. Laying a carpet might seem easy in the shop, but it’s often a lot more difficult when you’re by yourself. Tenants deserve a safe, hazard-free place to live, so make sure all carpet edges are fully secured and use a damp-proof paint to prevent mildew.

Choose the furniture carefully

Avoid buying vintage or expensive furniture for a rental property as it might get broken or damaged. Instead, opt for something that looks good, but doesn’t cost the earth to replace. Cheap and cheerful tables, chairs and sofas are ideal for students and basic pine furniture is suitable for young professionals and families. Tenants have the right to live in a well-maintained property, so make sure all furnishings are quality, but don’t put yourself out of pocket by buying the best of the best.

Decide what’s included in the rent

If you’re advertising your property as fully-furnished you’ll need to provide all the necessary furniture, but if you’re renting it part-furnished you only have to supply some items. Make it clear what comes with the house on your advert and ensure you supply the relevant equipment. If you’re only supplying white goods you might be able to splash out on more luxurious items, but if you’re supplying tenants with everything, basic items will usually be alright.

Comparing landlord building insurance and writing up adverts might be second nature to most landlords, but DIY can be a little more daunting. If you’ve recently bought a new property, sit down and think exactly how you’ll decorate it.