Renting a furnished property in Brisbane
Contemplating a furnished rental in Brisbane? This choice brings convenience, flexibility, and a seamless transition. In this guide, we’ll delve into the essentials of renting a furnished home Down Under, covering everything from the basics to weighing the pros and cons.
Understanding furnished rentals
A furnished rental is your ticket to a fully equipped living space, sparing you from the hassle of furniture logistics. Expect sofas, beds, kitchen gadgets, towels, and linens—a perfect solution for newcomers, short-term adventurers and those not wanting to commit to large furniture purchases. Please keep in mind that many properties vary in their level of furnishings. Some properties only have the ‘big basic’ items all the way up to FULLY furnished including art on walls, cutlery, pots pans, sheets etc.
What to expect in a furnished home
- Furniture: Bed(s), mattresses, dining table and chairs, couches, and sometimes study desks and chairs
- Appliances: Kitchen appliances like dishwashers, fridges, toasters, kettle, TVs, washing machine, dryer etc
- Basic kitchenware: Pots, pans, utensils (varies by property).
- Bedding and linens: Some properties may provide these; clarify with the property manager and/or property owner.
Fully furnished vs. Partially furnished
- Fully furnished: Ready for daily living, from furniture to kitchenware.
- Partially furnished: Offers some basics, but tenants may need to bring additional items.
- Cost Considerations: The cost of a furnished rental varies based on location, property size, and furnishing level. While more expensive on average, the convenience of a fully equipped living space justifies the premium.
When to opt for a furnished home
Ideal for short-term stays, newcomers to Brisbane, and frequent travellers, furnished rentals streamline the transition and eliminate the need for furniture-related commitments.
Pros of furnished rentals
- Convenience and time savings
- Avoidance of upfront furniture costs
- Flexibility with lease terms (often fully-furnished leases are 3 – 6 months in length over a standard 6 – 12 months)
- Diverse location options
Cons of furnished rentals
- Higher rent compared to unfurnished
- Limited personalization
- Tenants hold responsibility for day-to-day maintenance of furnishings (if the tenant damages the furnishings it’s their responsibility to repair or replace them)
- Availability may vary
Tips for a successful furnished rental experience
- Communication is Key: Stay in touch with your landlord or property manager to address maintenance issues promptly.
- Inventory Checklist: Create a detailed inventory checklist, taking note of the condition of the furnishings, at the beginning of your lease to facilitate move-out assessments.
- Personal Touches: Add your personal touches to make the space feel like home.
- Respect Furnishings: Treat furnished items with care to avoid damages.
- Rental Bond Refund: Ensure the property’s good condition upon move-out for a full bond refund.
Renting process for furnished homes
- Research: Explore available furnished properties on platforms like Rent.com.au, considering budget, location, and preferences.
- Viewing and Inspection: Inspect furnishings, appliances, and overall cleanliness during viewings. Clarify maintenance responsibilities and utilities.
- Lease Agreement: Review the lease agreement thoroughly, understanding terms, rent, bond, and maintenance obligations.
- Rental Bond: Prepare the required rental bond, usually several weeks’ rent, held as security against damages or unpaid rent.
- Move-In: Inventory furnished items, document conditions, and communicate pre-existing issues to the landlord.
- Tenant Responsibilities: Adhere to lease guidelines for day-to-day maintenance and cleaning.
Renting a furnished home in Australia offers convenience and flexibility with cost savings. The decision hinges on individual circumstances and preferences, making it essential to weigh the advantages against the higher price tag and limited personalization. If you’re trying to decide between furnished and unfurnished, read our article here: https://www.linkliving.com.au/furnished-or-unfurnished-which-option-is-best-for-your-property
Still have questions? Speak with our expert property managers at LINK Living today, call on 07 3899 3566
