Published: 24/11/2023
The holiday season is just around the corner, and it's the perfect time to give your home a festive makeover. However, many of us are working with tight budgets, and if you're a tenant in a rental property, you also need to be mindful of not damaging the walls and floors, etc. The good news is that it's entirely possible to create a warm and inviting atmosphere without breaking the bank…or upsetting your landlord. Christmas is supposed to be the season for good cheer, after all.Sprucing Up Your Home
Let's start with the most cost-effective way to spruce up your space for the holidays: DIY decorations. Creating your own ornaments, wreaths, and garlands can be a fun and budget-friendly project to do as a family or individually if crafting is your thing. Collect pinecones, twigs, and colourful leaves from your local park to make unique decorations that won't harm your wallet or your home. Crafting your own decor gives your home a personal touch that store-bought items can't match. We kind of like that! Plus, kids love seeing their creations on display…it’s a win-win for everyone.
But what other options have you got? Simple…
1. Chances are, you will have some decorations tucked away in storage from previous years. Give them a fresh look by upcycling or repurposing them. You might think everyone buys new every year, but in reality, they are all doing the same thing as you. Instead of rushing out to buy new decorations, why not give these older ornaments a fresh lease on life? Upcycling is an excellent way to breathe new life into old decorations. A fresh coat of paint, some creative embellishments, or even turning them into something entirely different can make these cherished items feel brand new. It's a budget-conscious and eco-friendly way to celebrate the season.
2. Nothing says ‘festive’ like the warm glow of string lights. They are an affordable way to transform your living space. Hang them on your walls, drape them over furniture, or even use them to create a cosy atmosphere on your balcony or patio. Remember to use removable hooks or clips that won't damage your walls, and opt for LED lights to keep your energy bill in check. No one wants their electricity bills going even higher than they are already.
3. Your windows can be a canvas for holiday cheer. Consider adding temporary window decals that can easily be removed without leaving a trace. They come in various festive designs and are an excellent way to sprinkle holiday magic into your home.
4. Nature provides an abundance of free decorations during the holiday season. Pine branches, holly, and mistletoe can be used to create beautiful centrepieces, wreaths, or garlands; present them in a vase or secure them with non-damaging adhesive hooks. After the holidays, you can return them to nature or compost them.
5. Candles are another budget-friendly way to create a cosy atmosphere. Place them on your mantle, dining table, or around the bathtub for a relaxing and festive vibe. The warm, flickering glow of candles instantly transforms any space into a haven. Just be sure to use non-drip or flameless candles to avoid accidents, and never leave them unattended. This is crucial, especially if you have curious pets or children around.
Tenants, listen up!
Let's talk about being a responsible tenant while decorating your rental property. Always check your lease agreement for any specific rules or restrictions regarding decorations. Clear communication is key to maintaining a positive relationship with your landlord, particularly over Christmas. If you have any doubts about decorating rules or have unique ideas in mind, consider discussing them with your landlord or letting agent. Having an open dialogue can help you find a compromise that suits both your festive spirit and your landlord's concerns. A harmonious understanding can go a long way in ensuring that everyone is content with the decor within the rental property.
Some landlords may have policies in place, so it's essential to follow these guidelines:
To avoid damaging the walls, opt for removable adhesive hooks or clips. They're perfect for hanging wreaths, stockings, and lights without leaving unsightly holes or marks behind. Plus, they are easy to find in stores and online…and are cheap!
If you're placing a real fir tree in your home, protect your floors from scratches and water damage using a tree skirt or a waterproof mat. These safeguard your flooring and add a touch of festive decor. Similarly, use coasters to protect surfaces from hot or cold beverages or candles, preventing unsightly marks or damage.
Finally, if you live in an apartment building or a shared space, be mindful of common areas. Avoid cluttering hallways or communal spaces with your decorations, as these are shared spaces and must remain accessible to all tenants. Keep your festive spirit contained within your own living area, allowing everyone to enjoy the holiday season in their own way.
Let’s Wrap This up (see what we did there?)
In conclusion, decorating your rental property for the holidays can be a delightful and budget-friendly experience. While creativity and resourcefulness play a significant role in achieving a warm and inviting atmosphere, being a responsible tenant is equally important. By respecting your lease agreement, using non-damaging methods for decoration, and communicating openly with your landlord, you can enjoy the holiday season to the fullest while maintaining the integrity of your rental property. When the holiday season draws to a close, it's crucial to store your decorations with care. Investing in sturdy storage bins will help ensure your holiday items remain in pristine condition for the following year. Labelling these bins can further streamline the process of unpacking and setting up your decorations the following year.
Enjoy the holiday season to the fullest while keeping your rental property in top-notch condition. Happy decorating, and happy holidays!