Decorating a rental for the holidays presents a few challenges, especially for folks who really like to go all-out with their holiday decorations. One of the biggest hurdles is finding a way to fully express yourself with limited space and in ways that won’t leave permanent changes to the property. There are other potential challenges as well, such as keeping outdoor decorations within community association rules or how to decorate common areas if you live in an apartment building. With all this in mind, check out these tips for rental friendly holiday decorating this holiday season!
Tips for Renter Friendly Holiday Decorating
Use the right lights
A string or two of festive Christmas lights can add some holiday cheer to any rental property. Just make sure you choose the right lights for the right situation. If you’re planning on putting lights outside, make sure you buy lights that are intended for exterior use. And in general, it’s best to choose LED holiday lights, which don’t generate heat and are more energy-efficient than incandescent bulbs.
As far as aesthetics go, you have free rein unless there are specific community association rules. That being said, the best holiday lights for rental properties tend to be those with a classic and understated look. Timeless white Christmas lights or small red and green string lights make everyone happy, but you might find that not everyone is onboard with an over-the-top light show or a giant inflatable Santa Claus.
Keep hallways clear
If you’re planning on bringing Christmas decorations out into common areas in a rental property or apartment building, make sure you don’t obstruct anyone’s ability to get where they need to go. Keep hallways clear, and avoid hanging lights and other decorations around doorways, where they may be damaged or become a tripping hazard.
Create a faux fireplace
Who doesn’t love a warm, crackling fire during the holidays? Unfortunately, that’s a feature that few rental properties are equipped with, but that doesn’t mean you can’t use your imagination and create the cheery ambiance of a fireplace (without the fire, of course).
Decorative faux fireplaces are available online and at many party stores, and are surprisingly affordable. If you’re feeling crafty, you can even create one using peel-and-stick chalkboard wallpaper and some basic art supplies. It’s a fun holiday project to get kids involved in, and will provide the perfect place to hang your stockings with care!
Choose your tree
You may not have the space for a full-sized Christmas tree in your rental property, but there are still plenty of ways to enjoy this classic holiday decoration. A small tabletop Christmas tree doesn’t take up much space, and can be just as much fun to decorate.
If you’re on the fence about whether to get a real Christmas tree or buy an artificial one, be sure to factor in the amount of care a real tree requires (daily watering is a must to prevent a fire hazard), the amount of mess it can make (needles, needles everywhere) and how you’ll dispose of it after the season is over. Most folks end up deciding that an artificial tree works best in a rental space.
Tastefully deck the halls
As a general rule, subtle decorations work best in rental properties. A wreath here, a garland there, perhaps a picturesque battery-powered candle or two. Skip the oversized inflatable lawn decor and anything that makes noise. And also remember that you can think beyond Christmas; decor for Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and New Years are also on the table!
Contact us today for more information that will be helpful to landlords and renters alike. Our team of experienced property management professionals is here to help in any way that we can.
