Yahoo Finance 9 apartment must-haves for new renters
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Moving out on your own and becoming a new homeowner for the first time is a huge deal. Whether you’re renting a gorgeous condo in the city or a sprawling multiple-story house in the suburbs, you’d be surprised by just how much goes into making a rental space feel like a home. From practical décor pieces designed to warm up your homes to tools and storage solutions, making sure your bases are covered will celebrate the move-in process and make it seamless.
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Below, we spoke to a handful of home organizers and interior designers to help narrow down what new homeowners should keep on the top of their minds while planning and organizing a move. Here are nine apartment must haves for new homeowners or renters.
1. This stylish and practical light fixture
“Good lighting options are one thing I would advise new renters to have on their list,” explains Grace Baena, Interior Designer of Kaiyo. “Often, overhead lights provide a light that’s too harsh and can overwhelm a room, making it difficult to relax. Especially in bedrooms and living rooms, I suggest investing in a quality floor lamp that will provide softer light and create a more welcoming atmosphere.” This standing drop-resistant lamp is an ideal option. It adds a softer glow to the room, while the three lighting levels offer versatility.
2. The proper laundry storage and equipment
One thing many people forget, especially when moving into their first rented space, is laundry equipment. “It’s easy not to think about the necessity for a clothes hamper or laundry basket when one’s simply always been provided for you,” explains Andre Kazimierski, CEO of Improovy Painters Plano. “So, this is definitely something new renters should keep in mind to avoid inconvenience and awkward situations.”
3. An investment area rug
Want to add instant character to an otherwise drab space? Invest in an authentic vintage rug. “Whether you select a bold over-dyed Moroccan Boujaad rug or opt for perfectly faded Turkish Oushak flat weave, a one-of-kind find adds instant cool factor,” says Monica Guarnaschelli, interior designer. “Pro Tip: Etsy is [one of] my favorite places to source [products]! And, if you need a unique size or specific color, you can often message shop owners directly and they'll show you options that might not be listed.”
4. Invest in a hotel-inspired shower curtain
An easy way to upgrade your bathroom is by upgrading your shower curtain. Guarnaschelli suggests ditching your dingy novelty curtain and opting for a classic waffle hotel-style curtain, but—here's the kicker—buy it in an extra long length like this one from mDesign. “Standard curtains are 72", but raising your rod closer to the ceiling—84" or 96+" if you're blessed with high ceilings—makes such a difference in your perception of the room."
5. Consider investing in matching glassware
“I also recommend upping your glassware game,” says Guarnaschelli. “Fine crystal and monogrammed silver Julep cups have their place, but my go-to's are actually affordable Champagne Coupes from CB2 and, for something party (or toddler) proof, handsome hammered Mule Cups. Everything is more festive in the glassware you love, whether it's your morning smoothie or a well-earned nightcap.”
6. This ultra-practical cordless electric screwdriver
“Moving to a new place is always going to mean new projects,” says Molly Cody, interior designer at Cody Residential, LLC. “This minimalist electric screwdriver from HOTO will come in handy for move-in week and can be used for a variety of purposes.”
7. This set of light filtering curtains
“Rentals typically install inexpensive blinds which feel very cold to live with,” explains Cody. “You can easily warm up any rental property by adding light filtering curtains. Keeping the color light will add coziness without making the room feel dark or small.” The AmazonBasics room darkening black-out curtains are great; they’re relatively affordable but still offer that covetable pitch black coverage of a more expensive black-out blind.
8. This cheeky but practical doormat
“Especially if you enter directly from the outdoors, but even if you enter through a vestibule, a doormat can reduce the dirt and pathogens you bring into your home,” says Cody. “Plus, they can be cute and announce your personality to the neighbors!” This cheeky option will instantly let your neighbors know your priorities—but you can always opt for something a little more subdued if you’re looking for something more practical than whimsical.
9. A decent (but small-to-medium) dresser
Don’t settle for plastic bins to put your undies in! “Having a real dresser will make you feel much more like an adult—and having one that isn’t huge will be easier to handle if and when you move again,” shares Darla DeMorrow, certified professional organizer. Make sure to look for something slim enough to fit into a corner, but large enough to hold your garments. This three-drawer option from Wayfair can easily fit into tight corners, but the surprisingly spacious drawers should easily fit most of your wardrobe.
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This article originally appeared on Reviewed: Apartment must haves: 9 essentials to invest in
