Furnishing your apartment or home with brand new furniture is costly and time-consuming. You’ll spend a fortunate and at least an afternoon or two shopping and moving it around your home.

That just doesn’t make sense if you plan to rent your home short-term. By the time your furniture arrives, it’ll be time to move. There’s a better way: Rent your furniture.

Furniture rentals offer a cost-effective and fast alternative to buying. You can furnish an apartment in as little as 48 hours, and you’ll be borrowing showroom-quality pieces at a fraction of the cost. It’s the perfect solution for people who want high-quality, comfortable furniture for the short term (of up to two years.)

Renting furniture is perfect for property stylists – i.e. professionals who redecorate homes before sale — as well as business owners, university students, extended-stay travellers and events coordinators. Basically, anyone who needs to furnish a space in the short-term can benefit from renting.

Why Consider Furniture Rentals?

When does a furniture rental make sense? According to the International Furniture Rental Association, renting is an ideal option if you plan on staying in your home or apartment for fewer than two years. Beyond that, you’d be better off purchasing the furniture outright.

That means rentals are ideal for a one-month staging or a one-year apartment lease. Here are some of the advantages of renting compared to buying furniture:

• Small Initial Investment: Buying furniture requires a significant investment upfront, while renting may require just a delivery fee and your first month’s rent.
• Access to Quality Furniture: Whether you’re furnishing an office or apartment, renting enables you to use showroom-quality items and create a unique décor for your space, without spending thousands.
• Furnish Your Space Quickly: Rentals enable people to quickly furnish a space, in as little as 24-48 hours. This is ideal for professionals who must move for work for extended stays, as well as events coordinators who may need pieces fast for an unexpected party or gala.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Furniture Rental Company

Not all furniture rental companies are created equal. If you’ve never rented furniture before, you probably aren’t sure what to be looking for. Here are a few important questions to ask:

What Are the Initial Costs?

The lower upfront costs are one of the biggest benefits of renting. Typically, a company will charge you first month’s rent, a delivery fee and may require a security deposit to get started. Be sure to see what the company requires upfront.

Are There Minimum Monthly Requirements?

Some companies have monthly minimums. Even if you only need a single piece or some low-cost accessories, you may still be required to pay the minimum, which might cost you more in the long-run. Be sure to find out if the company has minimums, and if they rent out pieces a la carte.

Can I Cancel at Any Time?

What happens if you end up not needing that leather sofa? Does the company take back furniture? Some companies may not offer cancellations, or they will charge an early cancellation fee. Be sure the rental company clearly states what happens in the event of a return, so you don’t get stuck with furniture you don’t want.

What Terms Do You Offer?

The best furniture rental companies offer flexible terms and allow customers to select plans that fit their needs. Home stylists, for instance, might need to lease shorter than 30 days, but some companies don’t offer that type of lease. Similarly, a month-to-month leases would be best when you aren’t sure how long you will be staying in your space. Find out what types of leases are available before you sign a contract.

Do You Offer Insurance?

Like an apartment rental, you will be on the hook for damages. Stains, ripped fabric, or scuffed leather might end up costing you more when your lease is up, and in the worst cases, you might have to buy the furniture outright. Learn what your responsibilities are as a renter, and see if they offer insurance for accidental damage, theft, or loss.

Furniture rentals are an ideal option in the short-term, and the company you choose to serve your needs should put you at ease. Companies that are forthcoming about terms and fees, or that oversell the furniture’s quality can be a nightmare to work with.

Do your research. Rent from reputable companies that are established and have a good track record of customer service. If you follow those guidelines, your furniture renting experience will be guaranteed to be more enjoyable.