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Security Deposit-Friendly Renovations to Upgrade Your DC Rental

Even as a renter, you can make your temporary digs unique to you. We all want to make the most of our space, and as a tenant, you may feel limited in your renovation options. The good news is- you don’t have to be! There are so many ways to make your property your own without upsetting the owner or breaking any clauses in your lease agreement. Reversible renovations is the name of the game! We have all the tips and tricks for making your space well… your space!

Disclaimer: As a tenant in DC, you have to be especially careful to follow the terms of your lease to avoid having your security deposit dinged upon move-out. Property owners can and will charge to revert their property back to the way it was before you moved in. Even if you think the updates you're making ultimately benefit the value of the property (why would the next tenant NOT want all your perfectly placed mounted shelves or lux new curtains???), this is a case where you should always ask permission first. Up-front communication with the property owner is always for the best, and you never know when the owner might just agree to help pay for some renovations that you offer to make yourself. Without explicit permission to make permanent changes, be sure you can undo any improvements upon move-out and get your security deposit back in full!

 

Paint Refresh

Choose a neutral that feels like you. Keeping the color neutral will make it easier to return the room to the original color (darker color means more coats of paint to cover it up) and also ups the likelihood that the property owner will be ok with that color staying in place after you leave. We recommend choosing an off-white or grey to play it safe. Check out Sherwin Williams' Top Neutral Paint Picks for 2022 here!

Pro Tip: Always paint a sample swatch in the room you plan to paint before committing to a color. Paint can look different on a wall and in certain lights than expected! More on that here.
 

 

Simple Swaps

This seemingly small and inexpensive change can make a big difference, especially in a smaller space. Replacing outdated or even just plain ugly hardware and fixtures with updated, “authentic” alternatives can truly shift the feel of a property. Think cabinet handles, knobs, shower heads, toilet seats, light fixtures, switch plates, and more. If you’re not loving something that is easy to swap, make the change while you’re renting the space and take it with you wherever you go next. We promise it will be worth it! Just remember to store the original hardware somewhere safe, so it is available to be swapped back come move-out time. 

 

Intentional Decor

Adding decor is an obvious way to make a space your own, but there are specific, reversible decor choices that can really upgrade a space without causing concern from the property owner. Some of our favorites? Swapping out the original blinds for something fresh, adding plants to the space, adding floating shelving to the walls, bringing mirrors and art into the space, and layering fun rugs on the floor. All of these decor options are both reversible and transformative!

Pro Tip: Avoid putting holes in your walls by using removable items like command strips and hooks!

 

You shouldn’t feel limited in your design choices just because you’re renting. You don’t have to own the space to make it your own. You can make upgrades, feel at home, and get that security deposit back with these reversible yet impactful renovations. Always review your lease agreement prior to making changes to see if anything is completely off-limits. As property management experts, we are always looking for ways to help both owners and tenants make the most of their rental experience. 

Have any reversible renovations that you’d like to share with fellow DC tenants? Comment below!

 

For more happy home content, we suggest checking out our blog on organizing small spaces!

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Flock DC is a family of companies laser focused on people and place.

We manage home and tend to our community.

Happy modern dwellers and happy homeowners cultivate stronger, sustainable, more equitable and robust local communities and economies. We are a mission driven, values based motherbird that privileges purpose over profit.

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