Furnished or Unfurnished – What is best for you?

Should your rental property be furnished or unfurnished? This is an important question for landlords as well as tenants. As with a lot of things, there are advantages and disadvantages to both furnished and unfurnished property and what will appeal to an individual might not appeal to another. In this article, Quao Realty aims to provide readers with information that enables them to make an informed decision.

Defining the term ‘furnished’ or ‘unfurnished’

An unfurnished apartment doesn’t necessarily mean that the apartment is completely bare. In essence, it’s an apartment that includes very minimal fixtures and fitting. One can expect to find bathroom and kitchen fixtures, flooring and on occasion some major appliances such as a fridge/freezer, oven or washing machine.

On the other hand, a furnished apartment should aim to provide a tenant with a home from home experience. Tenants should not have to worry about furniture upon moving in, items such as beds, wardrobes right down to cutlery should be provided.

There is also a middle ground known as semi-furnished which aims to provide big-ticket items, such as beds and sofas but less of the smaller more personal style items such as wall painting, and smaller kitchen appliances. Quao Realty has a portfolio of the very best furnished as well as unfurnished properties available on the market.

Advantages of an unfurnished apartment

1. In the long run it will be cheaper as these types of apartments have lower rental prices as compared to their counterparts. Although you’ll have to purchase your own furniture, it is a one time cost which you take to subsequent properties you choose to move to.

2. There is more scope to customise and put your own spin on your space. You’ll have more flexibility in how you design the property.

3. There is less chance you’ll lose your deposit as you’re not liable for any furniture.

Advantages of a furnished apartment

1. It’s more convenient for you as a short term option, you can simply move in with just your bags. This option is particularly beneficial for students, young people or professionals who regularly move for work.

2. It is also cheaper than in the short term because the initial financial output is lower. You do not need to purchase any furniture as it is already provided.

3. Furnished apartments provide flexibility in a different way. Tenancy tends to be shorter meaning you don’t have to commit to a property for a long period of time.

The Landlord’s perspective

When leasing out your property, you’ll need to consider the type of tenants you want your property to attract. Quao Realty is able to provide advice as to which option would best suit you.

A furnished apartment may attract tenants from these categories:

1. People looking for short-term lets

2. Those looking to be closer to work during the week

3. Corporate tenants who require a property for staff/clients

4. Overseas tenants

5. Young professionals looking to live in high-ticket areas

Whereas an unfurnished apartment may attract:

1. Longer-term tenants

2. Those who wish to make their living space feel like home

3. Anyone who already owns their own furniture

4. Families

There’s a lot to consider when deciding what’s best for you. Ultimately, the decision lies in your hands.

Looking to buy or rent a property in Accra? Quao Realty provides a collection of luxury and quality homes and our property managers will be delighted to go over your options, either as a tenant or a landlord. We are only a quick call away. Give us a ring today!