The option between a furnished and unfurnished rental isn’t one that most people typically make, perhaps because it’s much easier to secure an unfurnished rental than a furnished unit. However, it’s an option to consider particularly if you’re constrained by convenience or time.
Furnished rentals are a good option for students or those who travel considerably for work. It saves the hassle of purchasing and moving furniture once they shift again. Unfurnished rentals suit those who like having their own belongings and take pride in them. Irrespective of your decision, consider these pros and cons.
Benefits of Furnished Rentals
Saves you time on purchasing furniture and decorating
A number of people enjoy spending hours planning the ideal décor for their rental or arranging furniture. If this doesn’t sound like you or you simply lack the resources or time, a furnished rental is a perfect compromise.
You could still have a comfy and decorated rental without decorating it from scratch. If you’re the kind of person who moves frequently, you want to maintain your belongings to a minimum. Renting a furnished rental implies that you don’t own most of the huge items in your unit. Therefore, it will be easier to relocate on short notice.
You could secure a shorter lease
Most furnished rentals won’t need a year-long lease because they typically cater to traveling professionals and students who don’t remain in the same place for too long. If you aren’t willing to commit to one place for an extended period, you should probably consider a furnished rental.
Disadvantages of Furnished Rentals
Higher rent and security deposit
A major disadvantage of a furnished unit is higher rent and deposit. That’s because you aren’t merely renting the unit but the furniture as well. If you’re working on a tight budget you should definitely avoid furnished rentals.
It’s also important to bear in mind that if any damage occurs on the furniture, you’ll assume responsibility, which could mean losing your deposit.
No control over décor
In the event that you dislike the couch in your rental, you don’t have the option of getting a different one. While you could hang art on your walls and include other personal touches around the rental, you’ll lack total control over the apartment’s look.
After all, the landlord is responsible for determining the apartment’s look. Therefore, if you’re concerned about decoration, this option won’t suit you.
Lack of sufficient room for your belongings
Although you might not have a lot of stuff when considering furnished rentals, you have something already. Whatever you bring might be hard to fit in the rental, requiring creative arrangement to make everything function and fit.
Benefits of Unfurnished Units
Freedom to decorate
These rentals are ideal if you wish to select your decorating theme because you have the liberty to decorate your unit the way you want. You’ll also have the freedom to select your furniture when you choose this type of rental.
Not liable for furniture damage
When you select an unfurnished rental, you won’t be responsible for any damage that occurs on the furniture.
Drawbacks of Unfurnished Units
Makes moving difficult
Shifting out of a rental when you have your furniture is frequently more difficult because you have to move all the furniture out of the unit.
Cost
Living in an unfurnished unit can be frustrating if you don’t have any furniture because you’ll have to buy your own furniture.
When selecting a new rental, it’s important you consider whether you wish to move into a furnished or unfurnished rental. While both offer benefits and drawbacks, it’s important you bear these in mind in your decision-making.
For more information on whether to choose a furnished or unfurnished rental, contact us at Apartment Agents or leave a comment.