If you are moving to Melbourne and looking for a rental property, the first decision you will need to make is whether you want a furnished or unfurnished house. This may seem like a small decision, but it can have a big impact on your rental experience.
Finding a good rental property can be challenging, and choosing between a furnished or unfurnished house can make the task even more complicated. Each option has its pros and cons, and it’s essential to consider your lifestyle, budget, and personal preferences before making a decision. In this article, we explore Furnished vs. Unfurnished: Which House Rental is Right for You in Melbourne?
1. What is a Furnished House Rental?
A furnished rental property is a house or apartment that comes with all the furniture and necessary items to live comfortably. This usually includes a bed, sofa, dining table, chairs, and appliances like a fridge, oven, and washing machine. In some cases, the property may also include kitchen utensils, crockery, and linens. Essentially, anything that you would need to set up a home is already provided for you.
2. What is an Unfurnished House Rental?
An unfurnished rental property is a home that doesn’t come with any furniture or appliances. It is usually an empty space, and the tenant is responsible for furnishing and decorating the space themselves. Some unfurnished rentals may come with built-in fixtures like cabinets, but all appliances and furniture must be provided by the tenant.
3. Pros and Cons of a Furnished House Rental
Pros:
- No need to purchase furniture or appliances, making moving house simpler and more cost-effective.
- Saves time spent searching for items like furniture, linens, and kitchen equipment.
- Convenient for short-term rentals or people on a tight schedule.
Cons:
- Tends to be more expensive than unfurnished rentals due to the cost of providing furniture and appliances.
- You may have to use someone else’s taste in interiors, which may not be to your liking.
- May not offer flexibility in terms of personalization and furniture layout.
4. Pros and Cons of an Unfurnished House Rental
Pros:
- Lower rental cost as tenants have to provide their own furniture and appliances.
- More flexibility in making the space personal and customized to your needs and taste.
- Bigger savings for tenants with their own furniture and appliances already.
Cons:
- Moving can be more challenging, as you will need to organize and transport all of your furniture and appliances.
- May take time to purchase furniture and appliances, making it challenging to move-in immediately.
- Tenant is responsible for the cost of repairs and replacement of their own items if damage occurs.
5. Which House Rental Should You Choose?
Before deciding on a furnished or unfurnished rental, consider your lifestyle and budget. If you move house or city often or are very busy, a furnished house may be the better choice as it saves time and hassle. If you already have your own furniture, providing your appliances or would like more customization and control of your new residence, an unfurnished rental is the way to go.
Ultimately, it boils down to your personal preferences and situation. Whatever your choice, ensure that you find a reputable realtor who can guide you through the rental agreement and ensure that you get a fair deal.
6. Conclusion
Furnishing or unfurnished rental, both options come with their own set of pros and cons. Making the right choice requires you to consider your lifestyle, budget, and personal preference. If you need help with purchasing a house in Melbourne, our Guide to Buying a House in Melbourne is an excellent resource that can assist you in your search.
Remember to do your research and look for reliable, trustworthy agents that can help you make an informed decision, so you can enjoy your new home in Melbourne with peace of mind.
FAQs:
Q: How do I find a good rental property in Melbourne?
There are several ways to find a good rental property in Melbourne. You can look for listings online, contact a reputable real estate agent, or check property management companies.
Q: What appliances are typically included in a furnished rental property?
A furnished rental property typically includes a bed, sofa, dining table, chairs, a fridge, oven, and washing machine. Some properties may also have kitchen utensils, crockery, and linens.
Q: Is it cheaper to rent a furnished or unfurnished property in Melbourne?
Generally, unfurnished properties tend to be more cost-effective as the tenant is responsible for furnishing the property. However, it’s essential to weigh the rental fees against the cost of furniture and appliances before making a decision.
Q: Who is responsible for repairing furniture and appliances in a furnished rental property?
The landlord or property owner is responsible for repairing any furniture or appliances that were provided in a furnished rental. However, any items owned by the tenant are their responsibility to repair or replace if damaged.
Q: How can I negotiate rental fees for a furnished or unfurnished property in Melbourne?
It’s always a good idea to negotiate rental fees with the property owner, whether the property is furnished or unfurnished. You can use comparable listings in the area to negotiate a fair price or negotiate a more extended lease in exchange for a lower monthly rental amount.
Q: How do I terminate a lease agreement for a furnished or unfurnished rental property in Melbourne?
To terminate a lease agreement for a rental property in Melbourne, you can either wait for the end of your lease term or provide notice to the property owner. For shorter-term rentals, the notice period may be shorter, and for longer-term rentals, you may need to provide notice several months in advance.
If you need more details about purchasing a house in Melbourne, check out our Guide to Buying a House in Melbourne.
