Making The Best Out Of Your Apartment
Most people rent apartments, but some purchase them. Well, this writing is geared more at the former than the latter. Those who own apartments are their landlords of that space; provided how they use that space agrees with any associated building covenants defining the property entirely. That means renovation is discretionary.
But if you’re renting an apartment, that changes the equation a little bit. When you’re renting, you need to have the authorization of your landlord to make any big changes. That doesn’t mean you can’t change the premises, but it does mean you’re less likely to build equity, and your landlord may have a final say in whether you can do something in your home.
So what does that mean for you; does it mean the hassle isn’t worth it? For some renters, that may be the case. Others see an opportunity; especially if they’re savvy enough at handiwork to do something valuable. Most handiwork is more straightforward than you realize if you’re not aware. It’s not easy, but it’s something that’s not hard to learn.
Sometimes you can do work that your landlord allows instead of rent, but you’ve got to do exceptionally qualitative work, and such situations are quite rare. That said, they’re not impossible. If you want it, you can have it. With that in mind, if you’re in an apartment in Dallas, consider the following.
1. First, Check With Your Landlord To Assure They Support You
This was alluded to in the opening of this writing: landlords won’t unilaterally approve renovation, even if it’s something relatively minor like painting the walls.
Certainly, they might approve you; but they might not. Before doing anything that will fundamentally change the space, check with your landlord and be sure you’re neither violating the lease or their preferences.
Sometimes renovation of a minor kind will be allowed in the lease itself, saving you the trouble; so first, read through the lease to determine what your actual rights are as a renter. Then, if you want to do something a bit more ambitious than the lease allows, be sure to get your landlord’s blessing.
2. Some Studio Apartments Are Better Positioned For Renovation
Some apartments are in great shape but could use an upgrade. There are also apartments falling apart so bad, renovation is putting lipstick on a hog. In Texas, you’ll find a little of column A and a little of column B. However, Uptown Dallas apartments are well-positioned for renovation, generally, and landlords tend to be inclined in that direction.
Certainly, it will depend on the apartment and the landlord. That said, there’s ample opportunity to explore. If you have yet to move into an apartment, you might look at a few studio options in Uptown Dallas, and see what’s best. Then, before signing the lease, present a few ideas for renovation to the landlord and see what they’ve got to say.
Granted, it’s better to make a “pitch” like that when the landlord can trust you, owing to a solid history that involves rent always being paid on time. However, if you’re professional enough and have the right credentials, then the landlord may see value in your proposition. Remember, though, they’re taking all the risk with a renovation. This influences approval.
3. There’s A Lot Of Value In Hardwood Floors
Hardwood flooring looks nice, through staining and finishing it can be maintained for a long time, it won’t get stained like carpet will, and generally landlords prefer that to the carpet for such reasons. Accordingly, if you’re looking for something you can renovate that a landlord is likely to approve, installing hardwood flooring is a great option.
4. Renovation Could Reduce Rent, But It Probably Won’t
If you put renovation into play in your apartment that you pay for, you might be able to get relief on rent for a while, or at least a discount; especially if you’re skilled at construction work. This isn’t likely, but if you can show the numbers and a history of craftsmanship in your work, you may be able to compel your landlord into excusing you from rent for a month or two.
Additionally, according to the link, if there is renovation being done on the landlord’s dime that restricts you from access to part of the property you’re renting, then you may well be able to get a discount in rent. So if you’re not renovating, but your landlord is, think about that.
Furthermore, some manage apartment buildings that don’t have to pay rent; the work they do for the landlord is valuable enough that they’re able to live rent-free in the building. Some landlords only reduce monthly rental costs for such property management, though. It will depend on the community and situation, but don’t rule out such an agreement.
Getting The Right Information For Apartment Renovation
There are a lot of things to consider when it comes to renovation generally, let alone apartment renovation. There are rent cost reductions that are possible, hardwood floors are valuable, in Texas studio apartments are ripe for renovation, and whatever you do, you need to check with the landlord.
If you’re in Dallas considering renovation projects for an apartment you own, rent, or are considering, think about these things.