What’s the difference between a furnished and an unfurnished property?

"Furnished or unfurnished" refers to a rental property, and whether it is being offered with or without furniture and other essential items. There's also a part-furnished option which is becoming increasingly popular.

Unfurnished properties are typically less expensive in terms of monthly rent but traditionally won’t come with any furniture or appliances. It may include basic fixtures such as built-in cabinets, light fixtures, and bathroom fixtures, but you’ll be responsible for providing your own furniture and other household items. More often than not, these days, white goods are included in an unfurnished rental property. 

What does a furnished property usually include?

Renting a furnished property is convenient if you don't want the hassle of purchasing/moving furniture as it typically comes with the essential furniture and appliances. This could include items like beds, sofas, and kitchen appliances (refrigerator, cooker etc.). It might even include some other furniture such as bedside tables or a table/chairs. There is no set list of what has to be included. When you find a potential property you’re interested in renting, your lettings agent will be able to tell you what’s included. The items will vary depending on the property and will typically be agreed as part of the rental agreement between you and the landlord.
 
Sometimes there might be an item included which you don’t have a need for and you can ask for it to be changed/removed. Equally, you might have a need for an item and can ask the agent if the landlord could include it for you. Please note that the landlord doesn’t have a requirement to include/change/exclude an item. With the volume of tenants queuing up for a rental home at the moment, landlords can be really selective and potential tenants who might be considered more demanding (unless they want to pay more) are more likely to take longer to find a home.

Seen a property you’re interested in and what to know what’s included? Ask us…