A furnished apartment is a rental unit equipped with essential furniture and appliances, making it ready for immediate occupancy. The level of furnishing can vary, but it typically includes items like a bed, couch, dining table, chairs, and kitchen appliances.
The specifics of a furnished apartment will vary depending on the apartment or furniture package you choose. In general, however, a furnished apartment will have all the big pieces of furniture you need – meaning your move-in process includes zero heavy lifting.
Furnished apartments often have flexible lease terms (no long-term commitment). They are ideal for short-term stays, such as for students, business travelers, or those in transition.
What’s Included in a Typical Furnished Apartment?
If you’ve been hunting for a furnished apartment, you’re probably aware that different landlords have different ideas of what “furnished” looks like. That’s why it’s best to request a list of everything included. While some apartments only have the bare minimum, others will come with the works.
- Living Room Furnishings: A living room within a furnished apartment will usually include a couch, coffee table, end table, and lamps. The end table may double as a desk, ideal for those who need a home workspace. A chair, ottoman, or bookshelf may also be present, as well as electronics such as a TV or stereo system.
- Bedroom Furnishings: Expect to find a bed, a nightstand, and a chest of drawers or an armoire for clothing. Smaller bedrooms may only include a bed and a nightstand. If the room has no ceiling lighting, a lamp will be included. Some furnished bedrooms also include a desk, an alarm clock, pillows, sheets, and a comforter.
- Bathroom Furnishings: Since most bathroom essentials like a toilet, sink, and shower/tub are already built-in, a bathroom in a furnished apartment will include a shower curtain. There may also be towels, a bathmat, and accessories such as a toothbrush holder, tissue holder, soap dispenser, and wastebasket.
- Kitchen Furnishings: The kitchen is where you’ll find the most variation in what’s included in a furnished apartment. Both furnished and unfurnished apartments will have large appliances like a refrigerator, microwave, and dishwasher. Furnished apartments may include small appliances like a coffeemaker, toaster, toaster oven, blender, rice cooker, or food processor. The kitchen may also contain cookware (like pots and pans), bakeware, dishes, and utensils. Depending on the size of the apartment, a dining table and chairs or bar with stools will be included.
Furnished apartments can come with more than just furniture. Depending on the apartment building and the furnished apartment provider, the following may also be included:
- Building Amenities: The building in which the furnished apartment is located may offer amenities. They can be simple, like a laundry room, or more sophisticated, like a 24-hour concierge or “doorman,” pool, fitness center, rooftop terrace, lounge, etc. Many buildings are also pet-friendly and provide pet amenities.
- Laundry: The apartment may have a washer and dryer within the unit or a shared laundry room in the building. If the building has a concierge, they might offer laundry or dry-cleaning services.
- Wi-Fi and Utilities: High-speed Wi-Fi and utilities (electricity, water, and gas) are usually included in the cost of a furnished apartment. Cable TV may also be included.
- Guest Services: Some offer services, such as having the maintenance team answer questions about operating appliances. Another potential bonus is having staff available 24/7 or during limited days and times.
What Isn’t Included in a Furnished Apartment?
The renter is expected to bring the little things. A furnished apartment will have a bed, but the renter is expected to bring bed sheets. A furnished apartment has a couch, but not usually the throw pillows and blankets. Again, the specifics depend on the lease agreement or selected furniture package.
Furnished Apartments Save Time and Money
Furnished apartment pricing typically mirrors a daily hotel rate. Renters, however, can save time and money compared to leasing a traditional apartment because there aren’t costs to rent furniture or hire movers to move in and out.
These apartments are likely furnished by expert interior designers who will thoughtfully design the space, prioritizing style and comfort.
Disadvantages of Furnished Apartments
- Higher rent: Furnished apartments often come with higher rental costs compared to unfurnished ones.
- Less Personalized: There is less opportunity to decorate and personalize the space to your taste. The quality and style of the furnishings may not always meet your preferences.
- Potential Damage Costs: You might be responsible for any damage to the provided furniture, which can lead to additional costs.
Furnished Apartments Cater to a Busy Lifestyle
Renting a fully furnished apartment is an excellent option for those with busy lifestyles or those who plan on renting for less than a traditional 12-to-15-month lease.
Ask the landlord lots of questions before renting a furnished apartment to determine precisely what you’re getting. If you’re renting a furniture package, read the agreement carefully.
For more on how to find the right apartment for your needs, visit our Renters Blog.