just move into your new rental home? tips to make it your own...

Adding your own touches helps make a new place feel like home!  Just be sure you understand the terms of your Lease before modifying anything and if you get permission to make modifications, GET IT IN WRITING!
 
Freshen up 
Weird smells happen.  Even when the property was thoroughly cleaned, some smells can come back.  Try to find the source of any unsavory odors. 

• If you are not sure of the source, put white vinegar in a bowl and circulate air throughout the rental by turning on a fan and opening windows and doors. 
• You can also combine equal parts of water and white vinegar as a neutralizing spray.  You can sprinkle baking soda over carpet and other fabrics to help neutralize smells. 
• If the aroma is coming from the garbage disposal, grinding up lemon or orange peels work wonders. 
• No disposal or have a slow drain..... baking soda, vinegar and hot water also do great things. 

Find your style
Not sure if you prefer contemporary, traditional, country or cottage?  Search decorating sites to find the style that suits you best.  One decorating site is Zillow Digs where you can filter by room type or color, if you really want that one certain color.  An eclectic mix of styles, like sleek modern with vintage accessories, can help strike a comfortable balance and really make your place feel like you!  The key is finding what inspires you and incorporating elements of it throughout.
 
Make your temporary mark
Even though you can’t make permanent changes, there are plenty of ways to personalize a rental. 

• Add window dressings.  Most rentals come with no window coverings or very basic mini blinds.  Adding flowing curtains or even a modern print can transform the look of a space.
• Add a rug or two.  Rentals often have very basic flooring.  A fun rug – even laid on top of carpet – can detract the eye from what’s beneath it.  Use rugs with distinct colors and textures to make them pop!
• Try removable wallpaper or decals, which allows you to add personality to your space without making any permanent changes.
• Simple touches like throw pillows are a great way to add personal flair without a huge investment.

Plant a container garden

• Nothing breathes life into a place quite like plants and container gardening works well even in the tiniest of spaces.  Again, tons of advice on the Internet, just search “container garden”.

---

​Show off the place
The place really feels like home when you entertain friends and family!  Having guests is the best motivator to get your place into shape.  Worried about entertaining tight quarters?

• Edit your guest list.  You don’t have to invite everyone you know at once.  Make sure you have enough room for guests to move around without stepping on each other.
• Keep the space open.  You may want to move some of the furniture just when entertaining.
• Assume spills will happen, and the smaller the space, the more spills are likely.  If you have light carpeting, consider serving white wine or beer.  You will be responsible for carpet stains that won’t come out.

 
Cheers on finding your new place!  Enjoy!