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How To Make Your New Rental Feel Like A Fully Fledged Home

By Sarah Vo

From ensuring you’re connected to reliable internet to having plenty of personalised items, these steps will help transform your rental into your own, cozy space.

Renting a home comes with its own set of challenges, especially when it comes to making the space feel like your own.


When renting, there are many clever ways to do temporary things that still make it feel like home. Picture: Getty

The restriction with renting is that everything you do to your home has to be temporary – which doesn’t necessarily mean you’re hamstrung for things to do, it just means you have to be clever about it.

Here’s some minor adjustments you can make to turn your rental house into a home in no time.

1. Personalise Your Space

While you might not be able to paint the walls or make permanent changes, there are plenty of ways to add your own touch to your rental.

Just because you can’t use a hammer and nail on your walls, doesn’t mean you can’t hang some art and pictures.

Head to your local hardware store to pick up some command strips, which allows you to mount what you want to your walls without creating damage and losing your bond.

These strips are strong, easy to use, and can be removed without leaving any residue.

Next, add some rugs, which can cover up unsightly flooring and add warmth. Opt for larger area rugs to define spaces in open-plan areas or smaller ones to accent specific spots like under a coffee table or by the bed.


Even a rug can make your space feel warm and cozy. Picture: Getty

And finally, curtains can also soften the look of any room. If your rental comes with blinds that you find unattractive or too plain, consider hanging your own curtains over them – just check in with your rental manager before doing so.

This can be done without making permanent changes by using tension rods or command hooks designed for hanging curtain rods.

2. Get Connected to the Internet Properly

It’s hard to imagine a modern world without a reliable internet connection.

Given that 99% of homes across Australia have access to the nbn network, the ability to connect with the rest of the world from the comfort of your home is now easier than ever.

However, on the off chance that it’s not connected yet, speak to your landlord or real estate agent to get the necessary approvals to kickstart the process.

Once connected, be sure to optimise the Wi-Fi coverage in your house.

nbn General Manager Residential Products, Courtney McMahon, says where you place your Wi-Fi router can have an impact on your internet experience.

“For the best results, place your Wi-Fi router in an elevated position, approximately one metre off the ground.”

“Ideally this location is also away from devices that can cause interference with your Wi-Fi signal, like microwave ovens or metal devices.”

The unique layout of your premises can also have an impact on the Wi-Fi quality across different areas.


A solid and reliable internet connection will make a world of difference when moving into a new home. Picture: Getty

“For example, thicker walls mean the Wi-Fi signal may not reach as far and in larger, multi-story premises the Wi-Fi signal may not reach all the rooms,” Courtney says.

“You can consider extending your Wi-Fi coverage with a mesh network or professionally installed wired connections.”

“The number of active users and devices connected to your Wi-Fi can also affect its performance.”

“Have a chat with your provider so that they can help you find the right plan that meets your needs,” she adds.

3. Invest in Your Living Area

You can easily get caught up in the design of bedrooms and the look of bathrooms and overlook the main space in your house.

Your living room is often the place you spend the most time, so invest in optimising the space as much as possible.

Furniture that serves multiple purposes, such as a sofa bed or an ottoman with storage, is perfect for rentals.

Throw in blankets, cushions, and personal memorabilia which can make your space feel warm and unique.

Soft textiles add comfort and colour, while personal items like photos or souvenirs bring a sense of familiarity and warmth.

Area rugs can define different zones within your living room and add warmth to the space – choose ones that complement your furniture and decor to tie the room together.

4. Customise Your Lighting

Good lighting can enhance the ambiance of your home, and make it feel cosy and warm.

Incorporate a mix of lighting sources, particularly in your living area – and place a floor lamp next to your reading chair or sofa to create a cosy reading nook.


A cozy little reading nook where both kids and adults can chill out will create a sense of calm in your new home. Picture: Getty

Use table lamps on side tables, consoles, or desks to provide focused light where you need it most.

Wall sconces can be used to highlight artwork, architectural features, or to provide ambient lighting. They also save floor and table space and add a sophisticated touch to your decor.

Be sure to consider using warm light bulbs, instead of white lights, to create a more inviting atmosphere.

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