Finding the right rental property to make your home can be a big challenge. You need to consider the size of the property, location and your budget. Another aspect you’ll need to decide upon is whether to opt for a furnished or unfurnished property. Both have their pros and cons and a lot will depend on your personal circumstances.
What’s Included?
· Unfurnished: the contents of the property will be limited to standard fixtures and fittings. This may include built in appliances like a cooker and items like carpets, curtains or window coverings. You provide the furniture.
· Furnished: In addition to the above, furniture and white goods are supplied in the property and even items like cutlery and crockery. The level of furnishings can vary from the basic necessities to an executive level furnished property.
The Pros and Cons of Unfurnished Accommodation
You can move into the property with your familiar furnishings and can easily make the place look and feel like your own home. Whilst you won’t have to worry about forfeiting your deposit if the furniture is damaged, you will still be liable for the fixtures and fittings.
The downside of renting an unfurnished property is that you will need to possess or buy all the furnishings you will require. If you need to buy items like a sofa and bed, for example, you will need to spend a considerable amount of money on top of the initial outlay of paying for your rent and deposit. If this is beyond your budget, then a furnished property may better suit your needs.
When to Choose Unfurnished Accommodation
- If you already have your own furniture.
- If you really want to personalise the property so that it’s more ‘you’.
- If you are planning to rent for the long term.
The Pros and Cons of Furnished Accommodation
Having a readymade home is great if you don’t have your own furniture or are not in a position to purchase all that is required. A furnished property is also a good option if you are only looking to rent for a short period of time, perhaps you want to move to an area for a new job or to study and want to see how it pans out before you commit to a more permanent home.
According to What House, it can cost over £15,000 to furnish a house fully. Even if you’re buying second hand, you could be looking at spending several thousand pounds. Living in furnished accommodation also means you worry less about initial moving and unpacking expenses.
The downside of renting a furnished property is that you will be responsible for the upkeep of the furniture and you’ll have to pay to fix or replace items if there is any damage. Furnished properties often come at a higher rental fee because the landlord has invested in the interior furnishings.
When to Choose Furnished Accommodation
- If you are looking for relatively short let.
- If you don’t have the budget to provide your own furniture.
- If you have some furniture but not everything.
Talk To Your Local Property Experts
Choosing between renting a furnished or unfurnished property is clear cut for some but depending on your future plans may not be an easy decision for you. If you need to discuss what option will suit you best have a chat with one of our local property experts. You can find your nearest Northwood branch here.
