When you rent an apartment, it's unlikely that you can do a lot of major redecorating. If you are renting a home, there may still be restrictions but you will probably have a bit more leniency in what you want to do, depending on the personality and preferences of the homeowner. Landlords who do not want to see major modifications done to their property may place strict restrictions. Some homeowners prefer a renter who will fix up the interior of the home. After all, the repairs and upgrades will enhance the home's value. The latter type of owner may allow the renter a lot of flexibility and independence in their decorating options.

As a Renter, How Much is Too Much?

If you are renting a home, think about your budget before doing anything. They say that renting is flushing your money down the toilet ... spending a lot of money on improvements is like flushing your money down several toilets. You get nothing back other than improved living conditions or perhaps a grateful landlord who benefits from your money and work.

Some homeowners may allow the renter to make minor decorating changes such as painting the walls, hanging up pictures or installing decorative shelving. Extensive decorating work such as installing new flooring, putting in windows or knocking down walls might not be considered acceptable by some property owners. Some homeowners might approve of this type of extensive work so long as the work is to be done by a a professional company. The bottom line, however, is why on earth should you pay a lot of money in making major improvements to someone else's property when you receive no tax or other benefit? You are better off compromising your tastes with minor interior decorations and improvements and saving the money you would spend on interior renovations for a down payment on your own home.

Check with the Landlord Before Redecorating

Read and understand your rental agreement before investing anything in interior decorating. There may be specific prohibitions about painting or other activities in the contract. It is unlikely that the lease will spell out each and every possible type of interior decor activity, so check with the owner before making modifications to the rental house. It is wise to obtain a written statement from the homeowner that sets forth the landlord's approval of your modifications.

Not Sure What Is Allowed? Then Do Nothing

As a renter, if you're not sure whether you can perform a specific decorating activity and you are unable to reach the landlord, it's best to not make any changes. Being cautious will save you time and money in the long run, particularly if the homeowner demands that you to undo the changes.

Some Quick Decorating Tips

Regardless of whether you are renting a home from a landlord who permits a lot of changes or is very restrictive, there are some quick things that you can do to upgrade the home decor. Best yet, you can keep these improvements and make a bit of money from them at a yard sale before moving to your next home (preferably, the one you buy) instead of spending a lot of money that will not benefit you in the long haul.

RUGS - If the carpet or tile in the rental home is stained or just plain ugly, cover it up with attractive area rugs or throw rugs.

ART AND PLANTS - If the wall decor is hideous and you're not allowed to change the wallpaper or paint, hide it with some nice artwork. Large, leafy houseplants like Ficus trees add a touch of class to a home and can cover otherwise ugly spaces.

DECORATIVE FURNITURE - Furniture can change the look of a rental home. You can upgrade the interior decor by furnishing it with futons, known for their versatility and space saving features. You can get cheap futon covers in a variety of colors and patterns that can change the look of a room. Add a few throw pillows for color and the room will look much different. For cramped spaces, futons are great. Use them as a couch or chair by day and a bed at night.

LIGHTING - Play with light to create a sense of ambiance and draw the eye toward art or other features in the room instead of the defects. Traditional lamps, canister lamps or tree lamps can be used to direct light. Just plug them in and don't worry about having to change the light fixtures or having to install dimmer switches.