Moving into a rental property is exciting, but it can also feel a little impersonal at first. White walls, basic furniture, and a lack of familiarity can make it difficult to settle in.
So if you’re a student moving away for the first time or a working professional relocating for your career, creating a sense of comfort and belonging is going to be essential.
The good news is you don’t need to spend a fortune or make personal changes to feel at home.
Here are some practical, budget-friendly ways to make your rental property feel like a home.
1. Add your own personality
Most rental properties have neutral walls and basic furniture. Always check your tenancy agreement for rules on decorating. Non-permanent fixes are usually the safest option. This makes a perfect blank canvas for you to inject your style. And it doesn’t have to cost the earth.
- Fairy lights or LED strips: These can create a cosy atmosphere without major effort.
- Rugs & throws: Instantly softens a room and makes it feel warmer and cosier.
- Colourful appliances: Nowadays, you can get hold of kettles, toasters and cutlery in all manner of colours to suit your personal preferences. This helps to add a dash of personality without a permanent change.
Photos and picture frames: Photos of family and friends, memories or even quotes are a great way to inject personality into a blank space.
2. Bring in some greenery
Plants are a great way to breathe life and personality into a rental. Even a couple of small succulents can make a big difference. If your lifestyle is busy, choose low-maintenance plants like aloe vera, spider plants, or peace lilies. If you’re not confident, fake plants still add a homely vibe without the upkeep. You can use fun pots to add colour and personality.
3. Make your bedroom a sanctuary
If you’re sharing a house or flat, your bedroom will be your private retreat. Make it a space where you feel comfortable and relaxed.
- Invest in good bedding; your bed is often the focal point of the room.
- Add cushions and throws for comfort, layering and texture.
- Use soft lighting, like a bedside lamp or fairy lights, instead of harsh overhead bulbs.
- Add photos or mementoes from home to your bedroom too, to remind you of family and friends.
4. Create a functional study or work space
Students and young professionals spend a lot of time studying or working from their rooms, so having a comfortable, organised space can make a huge difference.
A desk lamp is useful (and cosy) for late-night reading, while stationery organisers or file holders help keep clutter under control. A corkboard or whiteboard can serve as a handy place for reminders and inspiration, and adding small personal touches like a plant, photo, or motivational quote will make the space feel more inviting and uniquely yours.
5. Cook and share meals
The kitchen is one of the most important parts of any rental, whether you’re a student or a working professional. Using it regularly is one of the best ways to make your property feel like home.
Cooking your own meals not only saves money but also brings comfort, especially if you prepare favourite dishes from home. Sometimes, even the familiar smells can make a big difference when you’re far from family.
A few kitchen basics will make life much easier:
- A good frying pan and a saucepan
- A chopping board and knives
- Reusable containers for leftovers
- A water bottle or flask for busy days
And don’t underestimate the social side of food!
Hosting dinner nights with flatmates or colleagues is a great way to build stronger connections and turn your rental into a space that feels warm and welcoming.
6. Keep it clean and organised
It might not sound glamorous, but a tidy, clean space feels much more welcoming.
- Share chores with housemates so everyone contributes.
- Use baskets or under-bed storage to keep things organised.
- Light candles (if allowed) or use diffusers for a fresh scent.
Have a cleaning schedule to help you stay on top of things around your busy schedule.
7. Build a sense of community
Home isn’t just about your physical space; it’s also about the people around you. It’s worth getting to know your housemates or flatmates (if you’re in shared accommodation) by planning a movie night, cooking together, or just chatting over tea.
You could also connect with neighbours or join local groups to feel more settled in your new area. Some tenants prefer to add communal touches, like a shared corkboard for notes or a living room rug to make shared spaces cosier and more communal.
Making a rental property feel like a home doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. It’s about creating comfort, adding personal touches, and building a sense of belonging.
Small touches like adding plants, investing in cosy bedding, or simply putting up photos of family and friends, small changes can make a huge difference.
And remember, a big part of feeling at home is feeling secure. If you’re struggling to find a guarantor and being asked to pay months of rent upfront, Housing Hand is here to help. We act as your UK guarantor, so you can pay rent monthly, secure your home, and focus on enjoying your student or professional journey.
Learn more about our guarantor service today.
