Planning on leasing a house while in college? You’ll need some renter-friendly home decor ideas to liven up your space! Even on a tight budget, you can get creative and personalize your home to make it yours. We’ve compiled a list of ideas to get you started, including items that are both affordable and safe for renters to use.

1. Rugs. A vibrant rug can add a pop of color to your living room, bedroom, bathroom, or any other area of your home. Rugs are an excellent way to make a space more comfortable and can be a creative way to add some personality to any area. For affordable options, we suggest looking on Facebook Marketplace, TJ Maxx, Marshalls, Home Goods, or any of the local thrift stores around town. 

2. Become a Plant Parent. Adding plants, whether fake or real, can (literally) breathe new life into your home. Trader Joe’s sells inexpensive plants that make great additions to any home. If you’re thinking about getting a live plant, keep in mind that you’ll need to water it and care for it as needed, so if you’re not up for the upkeep, consider opting for a fake plant.

3. Install Shelves for Functionality. Shelves are great for extra storage and organization, and you can get them in different colors and styles. Consider checking out places such as 5 Below, Target, and Amazon for cheaper alternatives. When you’re on a lease, command strips, and hooks are your best friends. They sell hooks and strips of various sizes that can accommodate any weight, you can find them at Target or Walmart. 

4. Add Curtains for Privacy and Style. Not only do they provide privacy, but they also tie a room together. Customize the color, length, and texture to your liking for an instant upgrade to any room.

5. Set up Mirrors. Mirrors can make any room appear bigger, not to mention they’re also great for daily fit checks. You can hang it on your bedroom door or display it in the living room or bedroom. Large or small, it will add an aesthetic touch to any space in your home. Don’t be afraid to play around with different colors and styles! You can look around the local thrift shops in town for some unique inspiration. 

6. Frame Prints. You can buy prints online from stores like Amazon, or download them off Pinterest and print them for cheap at Walgreens or FedEx. Once you have them printed or sent to you, all you have to do is frame them or hang them on your wall with command strips. It’s a simple and inexpensive way to add a personal touch to your home. Find the styles that best suit you and your space!

7. Add Throw Pillows & Blankets. Adding a throw pillow to your room or couch can instantly bring the room together. It transforms the scene from dull to vibrant without much effort, it’s also a great way to make the area more comfortable and cozy. Home Goods, TJ Maxx, and Marshalls are excellent stores for inexpensive throw pillows and blankets!

8. Get a Storage Cart. Head over to your local Target or Walmart, or check on Facebook Marketplace or Amazon for a 3-tier or 2-tier rolling storage cart. It’s a versatile item that can be used for extra storage, a snack shelf, a coffee bar, or even as a minibar in the living room. It’s a great investment that can be transformed to accommodate any of your needs!

9. Organize with Storage Bins & Baskets. Thrifting cute bins or baskets can be a great way to find one-of-a-kind staples for your home. They’re ideal for storage and organization, which can lead to a home that feels more clean and put together. There are also some affordable baskets and bins you can buy from Target, Walmart, Marshalls, TJ Maxx, and Home Goods. 

10. Showcase Your Style with a Clothing Rack. Add a trendy clothing rack to your room for a unique organization method that catches the eye. Find affordable pieces on Amazon, Target, or Walmart. You can also use it to organize your fits for the week, saving you time wondering what you should wear every day.

Make It Yours!

Your college home is more than just a place to crash between classes. Transform it into a cozy space that you feel comfortable in since it’s where you’re probably spending most of your time. There are so many creative ways to add a unique touch to your space at a low cost. Don’t let tight budgets and rental rules hold you back from making it yours.

If you’re looking for housing in Tallahassee for the fall, make sure to check out our available homes for lease. And if you’re looking for a more private residence, take a look at our Grad Student Housing blog!