Renting Out a Room: Updates Homeowners Need to Make to Their Spare Room

Renting out a spare room in your home can be a great way to generate extra income. However, before you open your door to a potential roommate, there are several important updates and adjustments that homeowners should make to ensure both comfort and security.

From minor cosmetic changes to bigger renovations, preparing a room for rent involves more than just clearing out the clutter. Here’s a detailed guide on the key updates you should consider when renting out your spare room.

Finding the Right Roommate

Finding the right tenant is so important. If you’re looking for a safe and efficient way to connect with potential roommates, SpareRoom is a great platform to consider. With a user-friendly interface, SpareRoom helps homeowners and renters find suitable matches, ensuring a hassle-free experience for both parties.

Important Updates Every Homeowner Needs to Make Before Renting Out Their Spare Room

1. Give the Room a Fresh Coat of Paint

The first step in making a spare room ready for a new tenant is often the simplest and most cost-effective: a fresh coat of paint. Over time, walls can become scuffed, faded, or simply outdated. A neutral, light color like beige, light grey, or off-white is ideal because it creates a clean and welcoming environment. This color palette can also make the room feel more spacious and bright.

You don’t need to choose the most expensive paint, but make sure the finish is durable enough for regular use.

2. Update the Flooring

If your spare room has worn-out or outdated flooring, it might be time to consider an upgrade. Carpet can be cozy but may show wear and tear quickly, especially if people are constantly walking on them. Hardwood floors, laminate, or high-quality vinyl can give the room a more modern look and are easy to maintain. If you can’t afford a full floor replacement, a good deep cleaning or a rug can also work wonders.

If you’re renting to someone with allergies, it might be worth investing in hypoallergenic flooring options or replacing any carpets with more breathable materials. A clean, allergen-free environment will make the room more appealing to a wider range of potential roommates.

3. Provide Enough Lighting

Good lighting will create a comfortable and functional living space. Many spare rooms lack sufficient natural light, which can make the space feel cramped or gloomy. To counteract this, consider adding extra lighting options, such as ceiling fixtures, floor lamps, or desk lamps.

If the room has only one window, adding a mirror on the opposite wall can help bounce natural light around, brightening the space. You may also want to upgrade light fixtures or add dimmer switches to create a customizable atmosphere for your new tenant.

4. Offer Storage Options

When renting out a room, it’s essential to think about storage. Most tenants will need space to store their personal belongings, so adding practical storage solutions will make your room more appealing. If the room doesn’t have a built-in closet, consider installing a wardrobe or closet system that’s easy to assemble. Even a set of shelves or under-bed storage can provide valuable space for tenants to keep their things.

5. Make Sure the Room is Properly Ventilated

Good ventilation is essential in any rented space. It helps maintain air quality, controls moisture levels, and keeps the room fresh. If your spare room lacks a ceiling fan or an air purifier, these are affordable upgrades that can make a big difference. Proper ventilation is especially important if the room is located in a basement or has limited airflow.

6. Update the Furniture

While you don’t need to fully furnish the room, providing basic furniture is essential for potential tenants. A comfortable bed, a sturdy desk or nightstand, and a functional chair are all items that can make the room feel like a true living space.

If the room is furnished, take the time to assess the condition of the furniture. Are the pieces in good shape? Do they match the style of the room? If you’re on a budget, you can often find high-quality secondhand furniture that will serve your purposes without breaking the bank.

7. Address Any Maintenance Issues

Before renting out the room, make sure that you’ve handled all basic maintenance tasks. This includes checking for any plumbing leaks, electrical issues, or cracks in the walls or ceiling. It’s best to address these concerns early on to avoid having to deal with repairs while your tenant is living there.

8. Make the Room Secure

Security is a key concern for anyone renting a room in someone else’s home. Take steps to ensure the room and the rest of your home are safe. Start by installing a high-quality lock on the door to the spare room. It’s also a good idea to provide your tenant with a spare key.

If you’re in a shared home, make sure to set clear boundaries with your tenant and provide them with a sense of privacy. Adding curtains or blinds to the windows can help create a more private space for them.

Additionally, consider installing a security camera in common areas (but not in the bedroom itself) to enhance overall security and provide peace of mind.

Conclusion

Renting out a spare room in your home can be a rewarding experience, both financially and personally. By making key updates to the space, you increase the appeal of your room and also ensure that your tenant feels comfortable and secure. It doesn’t matter whether it’s freshening up the paint, adding storage, or addressing maintenance issues – these updates will go a long way in making your spare room a welcoming and functional rental space.