If you’ve searched for a new place to live, chances are you’ve come across listings for a “furnished apartment.” But what is a furnished apartment, really? And is it the right choice for you?
Whether you’re moving for work, school, or a fresh start, a furnished rental can offer major advantages. In this article, we’ll break down what furnished apartments are, what’s included, and why so many people are choosing them over traditional rentals. Also, do not forget to check out some of the most amazing furnished apartments across the U.S. Click here, and we’ve got you covered!
So, What Is a Furnished Apartment?
A furnished apartment is a rental that comes ready with furniture and basic household items. That means you can move in without needing to buy or bring your own couch, bed, or dining table. Some furnished rentals even include kitchenware, towels, and cleaning tools. Furnished apartments are designed for convenience. Instead of spending time shopping, assembling, and moving heavy furniture, you show up and start living as-is.
Types of Furnished Rentals:
Not every furnished rental is the same. Here are the most common types:
- Fully Furnished Apartment: This is the most complete option. These units include all essential furniture, appliances, and household items.
- Partially Furnished Apartments: These units may include a few key items like a bed or sofa, but lack smaller necessities such as dishes or linens.
- Corporate or Executive Housing: These are high-end furnished units meant for professionals on temporary work stays. These are similar to hotel rooms but with more space and usually include cleaning service, Wi-Fi, and utilities.
- Vacation or Short-Term Rentals: These are furnished spaces available for a few days or weeks. Similar to Airbnb or corporate stays.
What Does a Furnished Apartment Include?
The contents of a furnished apartment can vary by location and landlord, but most fully furnished apartments offer these basics:
Furniture
- Bed and mattress
- Dresser or wardrobe
- Couch or sofa
- Coffee table and end tables
- Dining table and chairs
- Lamps or light fixtures
Appliances
- Refrigerator
- Oven/stove
- Microwave
- Washer and dryer (in-unit or shared)
- Dishwasher (in some units)
- TV (often in the living room)
Kitchen Essentials:
- Pots and pans
- Cooking utensils
- Dishes, bowls, and cups
- Silverware
- Dish rack or drying mat
Bedroom and Bathroom Basics
- Bed linens and pillows
- Towels and bath mats
- Shower curtain
- Hangers
Cleaning Tools
- Vacuum or broom
- Trash bins
- Mop or Swiffer
- Iron and ironing board
Extras
- Wi-Fi included (in many rentals)
- Decor like wall art, throw pillows, and rugs
Not every furnished unit will include all of these, so it’s smart to ask the property manager for a full list before you move in.
Who Are Furnished Apartments For?
Furnished apartments are great for people in transition. They’re a top pick for:
- Students
- Travel nurses and healthcare workers
- Corporate professionals on short-term assignments
- Military personnel on temporary orders
- People relocating for work
- Digital nomads and remote workers
- Divorced or separated individuals starting fresh
- Newlyweds testing a new city before settling down
If you’re not planning to stay in one place long-term, a furnished apartment gives you comfort without the hassle of setting up a full home.
Benefits of Living in a Furnished Apartment
Choosing a fully furnished apartment has a lot of perks. Here are the top reasons renters prefer them:
1. Move-In Ready
You don’t need to wait for your couch to arrive or spend days shopping at furniture stores. Everything is already there, so you can settle in right away.
2. Save Time and Money
Furnishing a home is expensive. Even basic furniture can cost thousands. With a furnished apartment, you skip those upfront costs. You also avoid moving expenses, thus no need to rent a truck or hire movers for a bulky sofa or mattress.
3. Flexible Leases
Furnished units often offer short-term or flexible lease options. This is ideal for people staying a few months or unsure how long they’ll be in town.
4. Stress-Free Relocation
Moving to a new city? Furnished rentals make relocating easier. You don’t have to worry about logistics or leaving furniture behind.
5. Good for Corporate Stays
Companies often house traveling employees in furnished apartments instead of hotels. These units feel more like home and cost less than extended hotel stays.
6. Low Commitment
Not ready to commit to a full apartment setup? Furnished options give you the freedom to try out a location without fully settling down.
7. Great for Students
College students love furnished rentals near campus. They can avoid buying furniture just for a temporary stay, thus having more savings.
Furnished vs. Unfurnished Apartments
Not sure whether to rent a furnished or unfurnished apartment? Here are the pros and cons to help you decide:
Furnished Apartments:
Pros:
- Move-in ready, thus no need to buy or move furniture
- Great for short-term, medium-term, or flexible leases
- Lower upfront costs (no furniture or appliance purchases)
- Ideal for students, professionals, or people relocating
- Often includes kitchenware, linens, and household basics
Cons:
- Monthly rent may be slightly higher
- Limited control over furniture style or layout
- You may not be allowed to remove or replace items
Unfurnished Apartments:
Pros:
- Usually, lower rent over the long term
- Total freedom to furnish and decorate your way
- Best for long-term living or if you already own furniture
- Feels more permanent and customizable
Cons:
- High upfront costs for furniture and appliances
- Takes more time to settle in and feel at home
- Moving furniture in (and out) can be expensive and stressful
- Less ideal for temporary stays or quick relocations
If you’re staying long-term and already own furniture, an unfurnished unit may be better. However, for flexibility and convenience, a fully furnished apartment is the way to go.
Questions to Ask Before Renting a Furnished Apartment
Not all furnished apartments are created equal. Before signing a lease, make sure to ask:
- What items are included in the unit?
- Is the furniture new or used?
- Who is responsible for the repairs or replacement of furniture?
- Can I remove or swap out furniture?
- Are utilities like internet, water, or electricity included?
- Is renters’ insurance required?
- Is there a cleaning service, or are tenants responsible?
Clarifying these questions can prevent stress from building up later on.
How to Make a Furnished Apartment Feel Like Home?
Even if a furnished apartment comes ready to live in, you’ll still want it to feel personal and cozy. Here’s how to make the space your own:
- Add Your Own Touches: Bring photos, artwork, or throw blankets that match your style. A few simple items can make a big difference.
- Use Lighting: Plug in a small lamp or soft lighting to warm up the space, especially if the provided lights are bright or cold.
- Scent Matters: Add a diffuser or candles (if allowed) to create a familiar scent that feels like home.
- Organize Your Way: Use storage bins or organizers to shape the space around your daily routines.
The key is to work with what’s already there, then add a few layers of comfort that reflect you.
Is a Furnished Apartment Right for You?
If you’re looking for a flexible and hassle-free living option, a furnished apartment could be exactly what you need. You can move in fast, skip the stress of buying furniture, and enjoy a fully equipped space right from day one.
Whether you’re a student, a traveling professional, or just between homes, a fully furnished apartment offers convenience, comfort, and peace of mind.
Next time you ask, “What is a furnished apartment?”, you’ll know it’s more than just a place to crash. It’s a smart, flexible housing choice designed for people on the move.
Check out Properties By Preston to see move-in-ready apartments in cities across the U.S. Each unit is fully furnished and designed to help you feel at home, no matter how long you’re staying. Contact our team and we’ll help you find the right place, the right lease, and the right location.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the refund and cancellation policy for furnished apartments?
Refund and cancellation policies depend on the property and the terms of your lease. Some furnished apartments offer flexible cancellation, especially for short-term stays, but others may charge a fee or require advance notice.
If you cancel before a certain deadline, you may get a full or partial refund of your deposit or rent, depending on the policy. After move-in, refunds are less common and may depend on how much notice you give. Always ask the property manager to explain the refund terms and cancellation process in writing before you sign anything.
2. Can I bring my own furniture?
In most cases, yes. However, it depends on the property. Some landlords allow you to remove or store provided items, while others don’t. It’s best to check in advance if you want to mix in your own pieces.
3. Do furnished apartments come with cleaning services?
Not usually, but some do, especially executive or serviced apartments. If cleaning is important to you, ask whether it’s available or if you’re expected to maintain the space yourself.
4. Can I live long-term in a furnished apartment?
Yes. While furnished apartments are popular for short stays, many people rent them for 6 months or even longer. They’re especially helpful if you need flexibility or don’t want to commit to furnishing a place from scratch.
5. Do furnished apartments require a security deposit?
Yes, most furnished apartments still require a security deposit, just like unfurnished rentals. The amount can vary depending on the location, length of stay, and property manager. In some cases, furnished units may have a slightly higher deposit due to the included furniture and household items. Always ask about the deposit amount and refund policy before signing a lease.
