Furniture Rental

Is furniture rental for you?

Sometimes living in an apartment can be made easier by renting furniture rather than purchasing it outright. College students, short-term renters and others may find that renting is an inexpensive and practical way to go. Here are some reasons you might want to consider renting rather than buying:

• The International Furniture Rental Association states that those living in an apartment for two years or less may benefit from renting furniture, while those who plan to stay for three years or more might be better off opting to buy. You can use that as a guideline if you aren't sure if renting is for you.
• Renting furniture is a great solution for those who may have budget issues in terms of financing an entire household at once. College students often have a cash crunch that can be solved by passing on the buy in favor of renting out the pieces they need.
• Furniture rental can be accomplished quickly for executives or those wanting to get a place set up in a short amount of time with a minimum of hassle. Many places can deliver within 48 hours and will pick up rental items for you at the end of your lease.
• Some places may have a rent-to-own option that is cost effective for apartment furniture rental.

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What are some reasons I might rent furniture for my apartment and is it practical?

Living in an apartment can sometimes mean that entertaining is a concern. Finding places to put people for a fancy dinner or making sure that the place has enough seating for a baby shower may make you want to consider renting furniture. This may at first sound expensive, but there are plenty of cost-effective options out there for people who need a little help in this type of situation.

Some common rental items for additional seating include sofas, folding chairs and regular chairs. Chair covers are also available, as well as table linens if you are opting for a fancy party. You can also add more table space to the room if need be.

Fun items to rent include things such as candelabras, decorative containers for arranging a fancy centerpiece or vases. Lighting is usually available as well if you want to do something truly dramatic.

Specialty items for "theme parties" are also rented through many places. Items can really be anything; check with different venues to see what they have available. You can get things for themes ranging from Hollywood Glamour to the Wild West; and just about everything in between. This can set the stage for a really fun evening, without any extravagant purchases on your part.

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Are there other rental options for parties besides furniture?

Renting furniture isn't the only option you have for making a party fun. Some places will have a more comprehensive list of things available for rent, and some of these items can really make for a terrific addition to the atmosphere. Here are some cool options to think about if you really want to make an impression:

• A popcorn machine. These add a great aroma as well as a "movie mood" to the evening. Great if you are watching a film, having an awards show party or even for viewing old family slides.
• A cotton candy machine. This can be neat to have if you are doing a "carnival" theme or a costume party. Great for a children's birthday party as well.
• Balloons. These are becoming a popular way to decorate and many full-service rental places can arrange to bring them for an event. Choose from regular or helium.
• Sno-kone machines. Great for a summer party and fun to make, this item can be a real conversation piece at a gathering. Also great for children's events.
• A barbecue grill. If you are trying to do an outdoor event in a patio area at the apartment building and don't own a grill, you can find a rental.

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