When renting out your home in the UK, creating an attractive and inviting space is key to appealing to quality tenants or guests. Whether your rental property is intended for long-term tenants or short-term visitors, interior design plays a critical role in making a lasting first impression. A well-decorated property can not only help you secure more interest but may also allow you to charge a higher rental rate. Here’s an in-depth guide on how to decorate your rental home to maximise its appeal.
The first step in creating an appealing rental is choosing the right colour palette. Neutral tones, such as whites, greys, beiges, and light taupes, are highly recommended as they offer a clean and fresh backdrop. These colours are versatile and widely appealing, providing a blank canvas that allows prospective tenants or guests to imagine personalising the space to their own taste.
While neutrals should dominate the larger areas such as walls, floors, and major pieces of furniture, you can introduce colour and character through soft furnishings like cushions, rugs, and curtains. This keeps the décor flexible, allowing you to refresh the look easily with minimal expense.
Investing in durable, well-made furniture is essential. Not only does quality furniture last longer, reducing wear and tear, but it also conveys a sense of care and consideration to potential renters. A comfortable and well-furnished home will attract higher-quality tenants and guests who are likely to treat the property with respect. A well-made bed with a quality mattress, fresh linens, and plump pillows is essential. Include a cosy armchair in the living room and ensure that there’s plenty of seating for any communal areas. Additionally, multifunctional furniture, such as fold-away dining tables or sofa beds, can be a great solution for smaller spaces or properties aimed at families or larger groups.
Lighting is one of the most important elements in interior design and can make or break the atmosphere of a room. For rental properties, it’s important to create a balance between functionality and ambience.
Natural lighting: Maximise natural light by ensuring windows are clear of obstructions, and use light-coloured, sheer curtains or blinds to let in as much daylight as possible. Natural light is particularly valued by guests and tenants, as it makes rooms feel larger, cleaner, and more inviting.
Artificial lighting: Layered lighting can create a cosy and flexible environment. Use ceiling lights for overall illumination but complement them with task lighting, such as table lamps or floor lamps for reading corners and workspaces. Consider fitting dimmer switches to give tenants control over the mood. Additionally, feature lighting such as stylish pendant lights or statement chandeliers can add character to rooms, giving them a more luxurious feel.
Kitchens are often a focal point in rental properties, particularly for long-term tenants or families. A well-equipped and stylish kitchen can significantly increase the appeal of your rental. Choose a classic design for the cabinetry—white or wooden finishes are timeless and tend to appeal to a broad audience.
Invest in durable countertops and high-quality appliances. Stainless steel or granite are great options that are both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional. Ensure the kitchen is well-organised with plenty of storage space, as tenants will appreciate a clutter-free environment.
For short-term lets, providing a fully equipped kitchen is essential. Include basics such as a kettle, toaster, microwave, and sufficient crockery and cutlery. For added appeal, offer extras like a coffee machine, high-end utensils, or locally sourced teas and coffees.
Bathrooms are often a key decision-making factor for renters. A clean, modern, and functional bathroom can significantly elevate your property’s appeal. Opt for simple and contemporary bathroom fittings—white ceramics, chrome fixtures, and clean lines are ideal. Subway tiles or marble effects add a touch of elegance without being too expensive.
Ensure ample storage with vanity units or shelving, especially for longer-term rentals. Adding thoughtful touches such as heated towel rails, soft towels, and complimentary toiletries for short-term guests can elevate the bathroom from functional to luxurious. Mirrors are also a great addition as they reflect light and make the space feel larger.
While neutrality is important for mass appeal, it’s equally important to add touches of personality to make your property stand out. Guests often appreciate when a rental property reflects its surroundings, offering them a more authentic experience of the area.
Consider including local artwork or photography, especially pieces that highlight nearby landmarks, the countryside, or cultural references. For a coastal property, introduce nautical-themed décor, or if your property is in a vibrant city like London, consider urban or modern art. These elements add interest and give the property a distinct identity, without overwhelming the neutral base.
If your rental has any outdoor space, whether it’s a garden, patio, or balcony, make the most of it. Outdoor areas can be a huge selling point, especially during the warmer months.
For a garden, keep the landscaping simple and low-maintenance. A tidy lawn, a few well-placed shrubs, and a seating area with outdoor furniture can transform the space. Adding small touches like solar-powered lights or potted plants will create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
For balconies or patios, ensure there is space for at least a small table and chairs. Guests or tenants will appreciate having somewhere to relax outdoors, and it’s a major draw for city properties. You can enhance the space further with plants or small decorative elements like outdoor rugs or cushions.
Less is often more when it comes to rental properties. Avoid cluttering the space with too many personal items or excessive décor. Instead, focus on functional, beautiful design elements that are easy to maintain. Decluttering also gives potential tenants the mental space to imagine how they would personalise the space, making it easier for them to visualise living there.
Provide ample storage so tenants or guests have plenty of room for their belongings. For long-term lets, built-in wardrobes or cupboards in the bedrooms are a must. For short-term stays, consider adding luggage racks, hooks, or shelving in key areas for guests to easily store their items.
Comfort is perhaps the most important aspect when decorating a rental property. Make sure the furniture is comfortable, the bedding is of good quality, and there are cosy elements throughout the property. Use soft throws, plush cushions, and warm lighting to create an inviting space that encourages relaxation.
For short-term rentals, offering little extras like complimentary toiletries, tea, coffee, or even a small welcome basket can create a lasting impression. For long-term tenants, focus on durable, comfortable furniture that they can use daily without worry.
Conclusion
Decorating your rental home thoughtfully and with attention to detail is key to attracting high-quality tenants and guests. A well-designed space not only enhances its visual appeal but also creates an environment that feels welcoming, comfortable, and functional. By combining neutral tones, high-quality furnishings, and personal touches that reflect your property’s location, you’ll ensure your rental stands out in a competitive market, helping you secure bookings and potentially increase your rental income.
With Pass the Keys, you gain access to professional services that handle everything from dynamic pricing to guest communication, ensuring your property is not only fully booked but also maximising revenue. For holiday rental owners looking for a stress-free and profitable experience, Pass the Keys is the perf