Six quick ways to make your rental home look festive

Here's the first thing to remember when decorating a rental home: it's essential to follow the guidelines of your rental contract. This means that - without the permission of your landlord - you're not allowed to make any permanent changes. The CSi Property Group has put together a list of five quick and easy ideas that will help you bring the holiday spirit into your rental home without breaking the bank or violating your lease agreement.

Let the little Christmas lights shine

Strong lights are a classic and versatile decoration. Try hanging them around windows, door frames or along walls to create an immediate festive atmosphere. Battery-operated or LED lights are also great options because they don't require access to electrical outlets. If you have a garden, strings of solar-powered fairy lights will create a magically festive ambience this December. Another way to add a festive glow to your home is to light candles. If traditional candles don't appeal to you or you have small children in the house, flameless LED candles can be a great alternative.

Put up a Christmas tree

For many families, the festive season only begins once the Christmas tree has been put up. This may seem challenging if your living space is small and you've also got to keep room for your Christmas guests! This problem is easily solved by getting a smaller tree - or even a tabletop one. Once you've decorated it with plenty of lights and baubles, you'll forget why you ever wanted a bigger, bulkier tree.

Bring out the decorations

Baubles and ornaments need not cost you a fortune. Invest in some budget-friendly reusable decorations like ornaments, tinsel and Christmas stockings. Place festive décor on shelves, tables and countertops. A bowl filled with colour-coordinated baubles (think red and green or silver and gold) can transform your dining room table this Christmas. 

Put out seasonal throw pillows and blankets

Swap out your regular throw pillows and blankets for seasonal ones in festive colours and patterns. This is a quick and non-permanent way to add holiday cheer to your living room or bedroom. If you just change the cushion covers - rather than investing in new cushions - they will be easy to fold and store for next year when the festive season is over.

Get creative with DIY crafts and wall art

This can be a great project to get the kids or grandchildren involved in and the only limit is your imagination! Create paper snowflakes, string together a festive garland or make a simple wreath using materials like ribbon, pinecones and ornaments. Alternatively, make a natural wreath by buying an oasis ring and getting creative.  One great idea is to give your wreath a South African flair by using indigenous plants.

When it comes to wall art, you could even create or print Christmas-themed wall art or banners - just be sure to stick them up in a way that won't damage the paint in your rented home.

Make your dining room table festive

This is a must if you're hosting Christmas lunch or dinner this year. Dress up your dining area with festive tablecloths, placemats and napkins. Add a centrepiece with candles, small ornaments or baubles to complete the Christmassy look.

There are many advantages to renting a home rather than being a homeowner, and easy ways to decorate a rental home for Christmas is just one of them. To find out more about renting property in Gauteng, contact the CSi Property Group today.