Simple Tips for Furnishing Your House Hack

So you’ve decided to house hack. Congratulations and welcome to one of the most exciting opportunities in home ownership! Furnishing a house hacking property requires a strategic approach to create a comfortable living space for yourself while attracting quality tenants. Remember you’re not just buying furniture for yourself but also for roommates. Here are some tips on furnishing your house hack.

Prioritize Durability and Functionality

• Choose Robust Materials: Opt for furniture made from durable materials like solid wood to withstand daily use and reduce the need for frequent replacements. We suggest avoiding plastic or particle boards as these materials wear out easier over time. Also look for high density foam as furniture made with these materials tends to hold its shape longer than lower density alternatives.
• Select Multi-Functional Pieces: Remember your furniture and space needs may change over time. Invest in furniture that serves multiple purposes, such as sofa beds or storage ottomans, to maximize space and utility.

Maintain a Neutral and Cohesive Aesthetic

• Neutral Color Palette: Use neutral tones for walls and large furniture pieces to appeal to a broad range of tenants and provide a versatile backdrop for personal accents. Color psychology is cited again and again as important to tenants. Remember your house hack is a brand in itself so choosing color palettes that have the broadest appeal is smart business. Check out this article on Color Psychology for a deeper perspective.
• Consistent Design Theme: Maintain a cohesive design throughout the property to create a harmonious and inviting environment.

Optimize Space Utilization

• Smart Storage Solutions: Incorporate storage options like built-in shelves or under-bed storage to keep living areas organized and clutter-free. If your property has a basement consider dividing out the basement space so each roommate has access to some level of private storage. This can help you maintain happier tenants for a longer period.
• Appropriate Furniture Sizing: Your house hack can be busy. Roommates coming and going with different schedules can create a lot of competition for space. We suggest you select furniture that fits the scale of the rooms to avoid overcrowding and ensure comfort.

Invest in Quality Essentials

• Comfortable Bedding and Seating: Not every house hack is going to operate the same way. However offering fully furnished rooms can help you fill yours faster. Plan to provide high-quality mattresses and seating to enhance tenant satisfaction and encourage longer stays.
• Reliable Appliances: Equip the property with dependable appliances to reduce maintenance issues and improve tenant convenience. Remember with house hacking the number of people using home appliances will be above normal. This is where good warranties are key and good stewardship.

Enhance Curb Appeal

• Maintain the Exterior: Ensure the property's exterior is well-kept, with clean landscaping and a welcoming entrance, to make a positive first impression. We suggest at minimum an annual exterior inspection to maintain curb appeal.
• Adequate Lighting: Install proper lighting both inside and outside to improve safety and ambiance.

Consider Cost-Effective Upgrades

• Secondhand Finds: Explore quality secondhand furniture or refurbished items to furnish the property economically without compromising on style. Facebook marketplace can be a great option here. Also be mindful that people you know are getting rid of furniture all the time. You may also may be able to find some items completely free! Challenge your inner treasure hunter to see what you can find.
• DIY Enhancements: Undertake simple DIY projects, like painting or installing shelves, to add value and personalize the space.

Comply with Safety and Legal Standards

• Adhere to Regulations: Ensure all furnishings and installations meet local safety codes and regulations to provide a secure environment for tenants.
• Regular Maintenance: Schedule routine checks and maintenance to keep the property in good condition and address any issues promptly.

By focusing on these aspects, you can create a well-furnished house hacking property that attracts and retains tenants while providing a comfortable living space for yourself.