Turning your spare room into a desirable rental space can be a smart way to generate extra income. Whether you’re renting to a college student, a traveling professional, or a roomie simply looking for a cozy place to call home, a well-designed spare room can make all the difference. Here’s a guide on how homeowners can renovate and style their spare rooms to appeal to potential renters and roommates.
Top Tips to Renovate Your Space Room For Renting
Plan the Renovation Beforehand
Before you even think about picking up a paintbrush or ordering new furniture, it’s important to have a solid plan. Consider who you want to rent your spare room to and what they might need. Think about room size, storage requirements, and practical amenities.
Planning upfront will help you save time and money, and it will ensure that the final result will meet your new roommate’s expectations.
Start with a basic checklist:
- Define your ideal tenant profile.
- Set a realistic budget for the renovation.
- Determine a timeline for the project.
- Check local laws regarding renting out rooms.
Create a Welcoming Atmosphere
First impressions matter, and the decor you choose plays a huge role. Aim for a neutral yet inviting color palette. Light greys, soft beiges, and clean white walls can make a room feel larger, cleaner, and more versatile for different personalities.
But that doesn’t mean your spare room can’t have personality. Bring in some area rugs, cozy throw blankets, and soft, comfortable bedding. Layering textures creates a warm, homely vibe that can help potential tenants envision themselves living in the space.
Make it Functional Too
When it comes to spare rooms, space can be limited. So every design choice you plan out should have functionality in mind. Choose multi-purpose furniture to get the most out of a smaller space.
Key functional upgrades include:
- A bed with built-in storage.
- A fold-down desk for work-from-home tenants.
- Floating shelves for extra storage without taking up floor space.
- Under-bed organizers or a small wardrobe.
These thoughtful touches show that you’ve considered your new renter’s everyday needs.
Invest in Good Lighting
Lighting can make or break the ambiance of any room. Try to bring in plenty of natural light by using sheer curtains that allow sunlight to filter through into the room. For artificial lighting, we recommend using multiple sources:
- Overhead lighting for general visibility.
- A bedside lamp for reading.
- A desk lamp if there’s a workspace.
Want to go the extra mile? You could even consider adding a dimmer switch. Giving tenants control over their environment can be a major bonus. And no one wants to feel like they’re staying in a cold, clinical hospital room.
Provide Essential Furnishings
A well-furnished room will generally rent faster and for a higher price than an empty one. However, there’s no need to over-clutter the space. Focus on these essentials:
- A comfortable bed (preferably a double, if space allows).
- Fresh, quality linens.
- A nightstand.
- A small dresser or wardrobe.
- A work desk and chair (if space permits).
Simple, tasteful furniture creates a versatile backdrop that suits a wide range of renters.
Add Thoughtful Amenities
Small details can set your listing apart from others and bring in the roommates you want. Think about ways to make your spare room feel more like a private retreat.
Here are a few ideas:
- High-speed Wi-Fi access.
- A small mini fridge and coffee station.
- Wall hooks or a coat rack.
- A full-length mirror.
- A welcome basket with snacks, toiletries, or local guidebooks.
Amenities like these help renters feel valued and comfortable, which will encourage longer stays and more rent. It’s a win-win!
Focus on Cleanliness and Maintenance
Nothing turns a renter away faster than a dirty or poorly maintained room. Prioritize a deep clean before taking photos or showing the room. Pay special attention to carpets, windows, and bathroom areas. Also, make sure to complete any minor repairs. A leaky faucet or chipped paint can leave a bad impression.
Set a regular maintenance schedule to keep the room in top shape, especially between tenants.
Create a Private Space
Privacy is a top priority for many renters. If your spare room shares walls with busy areas of your home, think about additional soundproofing options such as thick curtains, rugs, and door sweeps.
If possible, offer a private bathroom. Even a semi-private arrangement, such as a shared bathroom primarily used by the tenant, can increase your room’s appeal and rental value.
Don’t Forget To List Your Room The Right Way
Once your spare room is ready, it’s time to find a tenant. Use a trusted platform like SpareRoom to connect with potential renters in areas like San Francisco, Seattle, and other US cities safely and easily. With detailed listings, ID verification, and renter profiles, SpareRoom simplifies the process and helps you find a reliable roommate quickly.
Be honest and detailed in your listing description. Highlight key features, amenities, and any house rules clearly. Professional-quality photos are crucial; take the time to stage the room and use good lighting for your pictures.
Conclusion
Renovating your spare room for renting is a smart and rewarding project. By focusing on comfort, functionality, and thoughtful details, you can create a space that’s appealing to a wide range of potential tenants. Whether you’re seeking to supplement your income or simply make better use of unused space, a well-renovated room can make a big difference. With the right planning and a touch of creativity, your spare room could soon become someone’s perfect home.
