Moving into a new rental property is an exciting step, but it can sometimes take a little time for a space to truly feel like home truly. Rental properties are often designed to be neutral and practical, which makes them easy to live in, but also means they benefit from a few personal touches.
At Wirral Homes, we help tenants settle into homes across the Wirral, from coastal locations like West Kirby and New Brighton to popular residential areas such as Heswall, Bebington and Wallasey. When tenants feel comfortable and settled, tenancies are more enjoyable for everyone involved.
With a thoughtful, landlord-friendly approach, you can personalise your rental home while respecting the property and your tenancy agreement.
Start by Understanding What You Can Change
Before making any updates, it’s essential to check what’s allowed under your tenancy agreement. Some changes may require permission, while others, particularly temporary or reversible updates, are usually fine.
If you’re ever unsure, speak to your letting agent first. Open communication helps avoid misunderstandings and ensures any changes are approved before you begin. Many landlords are supportive of sensible improvements, especially when they’re neutral, well-finished, and easily reversed at the end of the tenancy.
Focus on the Spaces You Use Every Day
Rather than trying to change everything at once, start with the rooms you spend the most time in. For most people, that’s the living area and bedroom.
Small updates in these spaces can have the biggest impact, helping the property feel familiar and comfortable from day one. Taking a room-by-room approach also keeps things manageable and budget-friendly.
Add Personality with Soft Furnishings
Soft furnishings are one of the easiest ways to personalise a rental property — and you can take them with you when you move.
Consider:
- Cushions and throws to introduce colour and texture
- Rugs to add warmth and soften hard flooring
- Curtains or blinds (where permitted) to frame windows and improve comfort
These elements allow you to express your style without making permanent changes to the property.
Use Lighting to Set the Mood
Lighting can completely change how a room feels. Many rental homes rely on central ceiling lights, which are practical but not always cosy.
Adding table lamps, floor lamps, or warmer bulbs can instantly make a space feel more relaxed and welcoming. Lighting is also a great way to create different zones within a room, brighter for working, softer for evenings and downtime.
Bring the Outside In with Plants
Plants are a simple and effective way to make a rental property feel lived-in and welcoming. Whether you prefer real greenery or low-maintenance artificial plants, they add warmth and character to any room.
If you’re not confident with plant care, options like succulents or artificial plants still provide the same visual benefit without the upkeep.
Personalise Walls Carefully
Artwork, mirrors, and framed photographs help a property feel personal. Before fixing anything to the walls, double-check what’s permitted.
Many tenants choose:
- Adhesive hooks or hanging strips
- Lightweight frames
- Leaning larger mirrors or artwork against walls
These options allow you to personalise your space while protecting walls — and your deposit.
Make Storage Work for Your Lifestyle
Storage varies from property to property. Choosing furniture that doubles as storage, such as ottoman beds, shelving units, or storage benches, helps keep your home organised without altering the property itself.
Well-planned storage makes everyday living easier and helps your home feel calm and uncluttered.
Think Practical as Well as Stylish
A home should look good, but it also needs to work for how you live. When choosing furnishings and décor, think about comfort, durability, and how you use each space.
Simple choices, like easy-clean rugs, furniture that fits the room correctly, and window coverings that balance light and privacy, make a big difference over time.
Quick, Low-Impact Ways to Refresh Your Space
If you’re looking for easy updates without redecorating:
- Swap cushions or throws seasonally
- Add a statement mirror to reflect light
- Change lampshades for a fresh look
- Rearrange furniture to improve flow
Often, the smallest changes have the biggest impact.
Finding the Right Home in the Right Location
Feeling at home starts with choosing the right property and location. If you’re still searching, you can browse our current properties to let across the Wirral
You can also explore individual areas to find the location that suits your lifestyle, including:
Each area offers something different, from coastal walks to excellent transport links and local amenities.
Making a Rental Feel Like Home
Living in a rental property doesn’t mean it can’t feel personal. With thoughtful choices and open communication, you can create a space that reflects your style while respecting the home you’re living in.
At Wirral Homes, we’re here to support tenants throughout their tenancy, from finding the right property to settling in comfortably.
Wirral Homes – trusted letting and property management experts on the Wirral.
Looking for a new place to rent? Get in touch with our expert team today or register your interest for property alerts.
