You’ve moved into your new apartment or rental home, congrats! Time to add your personal touch.
Stop.
Before you start painting or hanging pictures and curtains, consider the impact to the unit – and your security deposit – when you move out.
Most landlords charge $75-$100 per wall that requires repainting, and that number can double if you use dark colors that require primer. Making holes larger than a standard-size nail? Add patching and painting to the list of damages to the tune of $25 per hole. Maximize your security deposit refund by using these renter-friendly decorating tricks from the start. Your wallet will thank you!
Removable Wallpaper
Tons of companies are offering removable wallpaper options that appeal to creative minds and cautious renters alike. Some require glue paste, while others are not reusable, so be sure to check the specifications before you purchase. Our favorite peel-and-stick options include these beautiful geometric designs by Chasing Paper and fun florals by Walls Need Love.
Sticker Décor
The Crafty Cathy’s out there can create your own wall masterpieces with hexagon mirror stickers or Washi tape. Need inspiration? Design Sponge used Washi tape as picture frames, and Everything Emily made her own wallpaper design using simple crosses. For a stick-and-go option that will “wow” your guests, this patterned headboard decal can dramatically change the look of your bedroom in minutes.
Picture and Curtain Hanging
Command Hooks can go a long way in adding functional touches to your space, especially since they now come in brushed nickel and bronze. They can be used for towel hooks, curtain rod holders, or hanging pictures, and by design they remove cleanly without damaging walls.
Kitchen Makeover
The kitchen of your dreams is awaiting your DIY! There are so many products on the market that help transform your kitchen with minimal effort and are easily removable. Check out these subway tile wall stickers for the backsplash you always wanted. No stainless appliances? Simply add faux stainless steel drawer liner to the front of your refrigerator or dishwasher for an instant facelift under $11.
Fake Flooring
Rugs are so 2017. Jazz up your living space with vinyl floor cloth that comes in varieties from tile patterns to traditional hardwood. Need a more hands-on project? Peel-and-stick vinyl floor tiles are super easy to install and remove when you move out. They even come in adorable ceramic patterns.
Don’t forget to take down your décor before your final move-out walkthrough. Save that security deposit for your next place!
The Till eGram 