How to Furnish Rental Units
- 1). Count the number of rooms in the rental property and identify the function of each. Many rental units include a kitchen and a bathroom and one bedroom.
- 2). Make a list of the furniture required for each room. Beds, night stands and dressers or bureaus are required in bedrooms. Bookshelf, coffee table, couch and chairs are commonly placed in living rooms and dens. If the rental unit has a special room, such as a game room, list items that can be placed there. Pool tables, arcade games and table tennis are all choices for rental unit game rooms.
- 3). Use masking tape to block off the area where you would like to place different pieces of furniture. The perimeter of a couch, entertainment center, bookshelf, night stands, dresser, bed and standing mirror can all be laid down on the floor to determine if there is enough room for everything. Masking tape is easily removed from surfaces. Play with different configurations and arrangements. Measure the perimeter of each furniture block so that you can match the dimensions while shopping.
- 4). Identify the mood you would like to establish for each room or for the whole unit. Confirming the desired ambiance will help you choose the look of furnishings and inform where the furnishings are purchased.
- 5). Buy furniture in the style and mood desired that fit the dimensions for the room. Most cities have many furniture stores to appeal to different tastes. Many home furnishings are also sold through online auction sites, such as EBay.com. Consider shopping at Craigslist for second hand furnishings in good condition. Choose furnishings that are comfortable no matter how they appear. For landlords, purchase furniture that can easily be maintained and looks great for the price. Buy couches and chairs that will fit protective yet decorative slip covers if you will be renting to families with children, young adults and pet owners.
- 6). Add accessories to enhance the feel of the space. If you are looking for a casual fun environment, consider plain-looking furniture mixed with silly knickknacks on the coffee table or side tables. Hang paintings and photographs that convey the mood you desire.
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