When browsing through apartments for rent, you will be presented with options for both furnished and unfurnished properties. If you’re a seasoned renter who already has their own furniture, or just looking to cut down your costs, unfurnished rentals can be very tempting. But are they always the best choice? Here’s a list of pros and cons that will help you make an educated decision.
Pros
Let’s take a look at some of the ways in which unfurnished rentals can benefit you:
Rent is cheaper
Furnished homes can be very convenient, yet this is why landlords typically charge higher rent for them. Not only that, but the furniture can also see an increase in your security deposit, as landlords aim to mitigate the costs that come with potential tenant damage. If you’re on a tight budget and already have your own furniture, this could help you save some money while renting.
You can add personal touches
Sometimes, landlords’ choice of home decor might not be your cup of tea. Therefore, if you’re renting an unfurnished space, you can design the layout and placement of your belongings so that it suits your style. Not to mention the fact that having your own furniture will bring some peace of mind — you never know what the previous tenants might have done to the mattress.
Best for long-term leases
Unfurnished apartments are usually more appealing to tenants looking for extended agreements. If you have your own furniture, you’re probably aware of all the hassle that comes with having to move it when you relocate, so renting long-term is more convenient. This is also a good way of saving a little extra when renting, as most landlords prefer the stability that comes with committed tenants, and you might use it to negotiate a lower rent.
Higher chance of getting your deposit back
The fewer items there are in a rental space, the fewer chances of damaging them. Landlords will hold you accountable if you break a chair or your pet damages the sofa, and any repairs or replacements will be deducted from your security deposit. On the flip side, renting unfurnished spaces can ensure that you get your deposit money back with as little hassle as possible.
Cons
Is renting an unfurnished property really that advantageous? Let’s consider some of the drawbacks:
Furnishing it yourself is expensive
Unless you have your own furniture already, you will need to adjust your budget for this additional expense. This can be very costly for first-time renters, as you already have to burden yourself with the cost of the deposit. You can find cheap furniture at flea markets, yet bargain hunting can be very time-consuming. Even if you already have the basics, you might find that you need extra chairs or a sofa. This is a hidden cost that could negate any potential savings made by renting unfurnished space, so consider your options beforehand.
‘Unfurnished’ could mean ‘no appliances’
The amenities that are typically included in an unfurnished apartment are kitchen and bathroom fixtures, carpets, curtains, and large appliances, like a fridge or cooker. However, appliances aren’t always the norm, and you can discover that your unfurnished rental also lacks a microwave oven or even essentials like a washing machine. So before deciding on a place, make sure to visit it first to see what is actually included in your rent, and be prepared for buying your own appliances.
Less flexibility
Unfurnished rentals are not the best choice if you’re a student or a professional working somewhere short-term, and need to relocate frequently. It can also create difficulties if you need to move out in a hurry. Another issue can be the furniture itself. You can find an inexpensive place with an excellent location, that might not have enough space for all your items.
Moving can be complicated
When moving to a new place, transporting your furniture can take its toll. If you don’t have the right vehicle, you will need to hire a moving company, which will increase your costs. Getting everything in place can become a hassle if you live on a high floor and need to take your sofa up the stairs. Also, if you can’t take your furniture with you when moving out, you need to decide whether to sell it, or keep it in a storage unit until a later date. All in all, your moving schedule, as well as moving costs, will be impacted.
There are both pros and cons to renting an unfurnished property, and your budget, lifestyle, as well as the projected duration of your lease, can significantly tip the scales. Consider your options wisely, and keep an eye out for any hidden costs you might come across along the way.
