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This post is all about renter-friendly apartment upgrades to make your rental feel like home!
This page includes affiliate links. If you click and purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I personally vet.

Making a rental feel like YOU can be tough! Luckily this post shares DIY tips to upgrade your apartment or rental to add your own customization and flare to your decor. From peel-and-stick options to no-drill wall decor, these decorating tips are easy to install and remove when ready to move on.
With the rise in home prices and mortgage rates, more and more people are staying in their rentals. Renting offers affordability and flexibility, which many of us crave in today’s world. Your apartment doesn’t have to be a boring cookie-cutter unit like everyone else. Upgrade your rental with these 11 apartment-friendly decor tips!
What type of updates are allowed in a rental home?
Review your lease for details on what is and is not allowed. If unsure, it’s best to check with your landlord before making any changes! Generally, as long as you put the unit back in the condition you started renting, you are good! Keep this in mind before attempting to make any changes to your rental.
Renter-Friendly Apartment Upgrade Tips
1. Removeable Wallpaper
Peel-and-stick wallpaper has come a long way! There are tons of options for designs and colors. Removable wallpaper allows you to create an accent wall or add flair to any room without doing permanent damage.
I love this option for homes too because it’s less of a commitment should styles and tastes change!
2. Peel & Stick Backsplash
Like peel & stick wallpaper, peel & stick tiles are a great option for updating your kitchen backsplash. Just layer these sheets of tile over the current backsplash and then remove them when moving out of the rental!
3. Removeable Tiles
Update your bathroom or kitchen flooring using removable peel & stick tiles! Another great option for rentals and homes alike to add your personalization and updates without a commitment.
4. Cabinet Hardware
Replacing hardware is a great way to update cabinetry in your kitchen and bathrooms. Be sure to measure the distance between pull handle holes to ensure you get the right size.
Remember to keep the old hardware and install it before moving out!
5. Peel & Stick Countertops
There is peel & stick for everything these days! Update dated countertops by layering on peel & stick vinyl. These removable countertops often come in variations of marble for a neutral, fresh look.
6. Peel & Stick Wallpaneling
Add some classic features using peel & stick wainscotting panels to any room! Create an accent wall or a grand entryway with these easy-to-install and remove panels.
7. Swap Out Light Fixtures
Remove old light fixtures and replace them with new ones for an updated look! This is a simple, affordable way to make a major change in your space. Remember to keep the old light fixtures and replace them before moving out!
8. No Drill Bathroom Hooks
Add storage with no drill hooks in your bathroom. I love these hooks because they suction to glass shower doors or tile walls for easy access to hang your bath towels.
9. Under Cabinet Lighting
Update your kitchen by adding under-cabinet lights! These lights use magnetics to attach to the underside of your cabinetry and are motion-detectable.
10. Cover Wire Shelves
Hide wire shelves by adding these wooden covers. This creates a custom, high-end look without any renovations!
11. No Drill Shades
No tools are needed to install these window shades! Add some privacy and darkness to your rental with these easy-to-remove shades.
Why choose to update your rental?
With the current housing market, more and more people are choosing to rent over own. Having to rent doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice a beautiful space to live in. By adding your personality and unique taste to your apartment, you can create a space you are proud to call your own.
Let me know if you try these rental-friendly apartment upgrades in the comments below. If you have other rental friendly tips to update your apartment, let me know!
This post was all about renter-friendly apartment upgrades.
This page includes affiliate links. If you click and purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I personally vet.