Looking for a new rental apartment but unsure whether to go for a furnished or unfurnished option? We're here to help you make an informed decision. In this guide, we'll explore the pros and cons of renting a furnished versus unfurnished apartment, with a focus on the price difference between the two options.
Whether you're a first-time renter or looking for a change, we'll help you determine which option is the best fit for your budget and lifestyle. Let's dive in and explore the furnished vs unfurnished price difference in rental apartments.
What Is A Furnished Apartment?
Furnished apartments typically command higher rental fees than unfurnished units because they come equipped with essential items such as tables, chairs, couches, and beds. The added value of these furnishings can save you time and money that you would otherwise spend on shopping for and transporting your own furniture.
In a well-appointed furnished apartment, you can expect to find a comfortable living room with a sofa, table, and lamp, as well as a bedroom furnished with a bed, dresser, and nightstand. A desk might also be included if you need a workspace. The dining area will have a table and chairs for shared meals with friends and family, while the bathroom will be stocked with essentials like a shower curtain, wastebasket, and floor mat.
Finally, the kitchen will have all the utensils, dishes, glassware, pots, and pans you need to prepare meals, as well as appliances like a refrigerator, stove, and oven.
What Is An Unfurnished Apartment?
An unfurnished apartment does not include any furniture. You are responsible for bringing in your own furniture and other items that you need to make it a livable space. This can be both cost-effective as well as creative, allowing you to make the space your own.
What Does Fully Furnished Mean?
To clarify the meaning of a fully furnished apartment, it refers to an apartment that comes equipped with all the necessary furniture and amenities for a tenant to live comfortably without the need to purchase additional items. It should be noted that certain items, such as food, perishables, and personal belongings, are not included.
Nevertheless, tenants can expect to find basic necessities like toiletries, dish soap, and hand soap provided initially, but it becomes the tenant's responsibility to replenish them going forward. Essentially, a fully furnished apartment is move-in ready, and tenants can settle in with just a suitcase.
What Is A Semi-Furnished Apartment?
A semi-furnished apartment refers to a rental property that comes with a varying level of furniture and amenities, usually falling somewhere between a bare apartment and a fully furnished one.
Typically, a semi-furnished apartment will have the essential furniture pieces such as a bed, sofa, dresser, and a table with chairs, but fewer additional smaller pieces of furniture.
However, unlike a fully furnished apartment, a semi-furnished apartment may not include other household items such as kitchen utensils.
Furnished Vs Unfurnished Price Difference
Finding a furnished apartment to rent might be convenient, but it may also come with a higher price tag. In most cities across the country, landlords usually charge a premium for renting furnished apartments compared to unfurnished ones. This is due to the added convenience that comes with not having to buy furniture.
However, the price gap between the two types of rentals can differ significantly depending on the city. What's more, furnished lease agreements tend to be shorter since renters are often seeking temporary housing. As a result, the cost of a furnished rental is typically higher than an unfurnished one, sometimes as much as 20-40%.
Pros of Renting a Furnished Apartment
Renting a furnished apartment has several benefits worth considering. For starters, it's a cost-effective option for individuals who don't own furniture or cannot bring their furniture along when moving. Furnishing an empty apartment can be quite expensive, and renting a furnished apartment allows you to save money upfront and avoid the hassle of spending too much money within a short period.
Another benefit is that moving into a furnished apartment is easy and stress-free. Unlike moving into an unfurnished apartment where you have to deal with moving companies or lug around heavy furniture, a furnished apartment only requires you to bring in your personal belongings and add your own little accents and details. This makes moving a lot less cumbersome, especially for people who move frequently.
Finally, furnished apartments offer greater flexibility than unfurnished ones. They are often short-term rentals, which makes them perfect for people who need temporary accommodation for business or academic reasons. Additionally, not being tied to a long-term lease agreement makes it easier to move on short notice without the burden of carrying furniture around.
Cons of Renting a Furnished Apartment
Firstly, the monthly rent for a furnished apartment is generally higher compared to an unfurnished one. If you already own furniture and don't mind moving it, the additional cost of renting a furnished apartment may not be justifiable. Additionally, if you plan to rent the apartment for an extended period, it might be more economical to invest in your furniture rather than paying extra for a furnished unit.
Another potential downside is that you may be held responsible for any damage to the furniture that comes with the apartment. Accidentally spilling coffee on the sofa or scratching the dresser with your pet's claws can result in additional fees on top of the already higher cost of rent. Owning your furniture means you are solely accountable for any damage and can avoid paying extra fees.
Moreover, the quality of the furniture in a furnished apartment may be a concern. You cannot guarantee how well-maintained or damaged the furniture may be, and some pieces may not fit your personal preference or style. This could make it difficult to find a furnished apartment that matches your personality or lifestyle.
FAQs about Furnished vs Unfurnished Price Difference
What's included in fully furnished?
A fully furnished apartment typically includes the essential furniture pieces such as a bed, sofa, dresser, table with chairs and other additional smaller pieces of furniture. It may also include kitchen utensils and linens.
What's included in semi-furnished?
A semi-furnished apartment usually includes the essential furniture pieces such as a bed, sofa, dresser, and a table with chairs, but fewer additional smaller pieces of furniture. It typically does not include kitchen utensils or linens.
What are the benefits of renting a furnished apartment?
Renting a furnished apartment has several benefits worth considering including cost-effectiveness, ease of moving in, and greater flexibility.
What are the disadvantages of renting a furnished apartment?
The main disadvantages of renting a furnished apartment include higher monthly rent, potential damage fees and the quality of furniture being uncertain. Additionally, the furniture may not fit your personal style.
Does fully furnished mean pots and pans?
When an apartment is described as fully furnished or turnkey, it typically includes more than just the essential furniture items. In addition to a bed, sofa, and dining table, a fully furnished apartment may come equipped with amenities such as towels, blankets, dishes, pots and pans, and silverware.
It may also feature decorative elements like artwork on the walls. Depending on the unit, a washer and dryer may even be included.
Does fully furnished mean a TV?
A fully furnished apartment typically includes essential furniture items as well as some additional amenities and decorative elements. However, it does not necessarily include a TV. Some units may come with one but this is not always the case. If you need your own TV for your apartment, be sure to check before you move in or make plans to bring one of your own.
Does fully furnished mean bedding?
A fully furnished apartment may come with bedding such as sheets, blankets, and pillows. However, this is not always the case.
Are furniture rental companies better than furnished apartments?
The advantages of furniture rental companies depend on the individual's needs. Furniture rental companies offer more affordable prices and greater flexibility than furnished apartments, making them ideal for people who need temporary furniture or those on a budget.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the decision of whether to rent a furnished or unfurnished apartment depends on your individual needs and preferences. Furnished apartments offer convenience, cost savings and are move-in ready. Unfurnished apartments allow you greater flexibility to customize your space with furniture, decor and appliances that fit your personal style.
Consider all aspects of these options carefully before making your decision. Ultimately, both furnished and unfurnished apartments can be great options for renters depending on their individual needs and preferences.
Weigh the pros and cons of each to determine which type of rental is best for you.
