How To Rent a Furnished Apartment That’s Right for You

Furnished apartments are becoming increasingly popular, and it’s easy to see why. A lot of people aren’t settling down long-term. Maybe it’s a short job, a temporary move, or you just need a place to stay for a few months. In those situations, buying furniture or figuring out how to move a whole setup doesn’t really make sense. You want something that’s ready. A place where you can easily walk in, unpack a few bags, and feel at home.  If that sounds like your situation, this guide will help you figure out how to rent a furnished apartment that actually works for your schedule, your budget, and your unique situation.

Main Takeaways

How to rent a furnished apartment that’s right for you:

• Focus on more than just furniture—look at amenities like parking, pet-friendly policies, and outdoor spaces to ensure comfort beyond the basics.
• Know your must-haves and lease terms—identify essential features like location and layout, and make sure the lease length aligns with your plans.
• Weigh the pros and cons—while furnished apartments offer convenience and style, they come with higher rent and limited personalization, so balancing cost and functionality is crucial.

How to Rent a Furnished Apartment That’s Right for You 

As a seasoned Philadelphia property management company, we can tell you that there are certain qualities you should be on the lookout for in a home. This holds true whether you’re navigating renting for the very first time or are a seasoned renter, one thing’s for sure.

Look Beyond the Furniture

You’re paying for comfort, so make sure you’re getting the most out of it. The right amenities can really enhance your living experience—think elevator access, parking, a pet-friendly setup, a balcony or patio, shared outdoor space, or even an on-site gym. Some places go all out with extras. 

Identify Your Non-negotiables

Take time to figure out what design elements or features you absolutely can’t live without—and factor those into your decision. It could be the size of the house, location, and more. Organize them on a list and keep those criteria in mind as you search. 

Look Closely at the Lease Terms

Make sure that you’re ready and willing to meet your lease terms. For example, let’s say you find an amazing lease, but it lasts a full six months. Meanwhile, you were originally hoping to stay for four. Don’t give into temptation, no matter how appealing the property is. You don’t want to find yourself stuck in a lease you’re itching to get out of. 

What Exactly Counts as a “Furnished” Apartment?

A furnished apartment is a place that is ready for move-in. When you compare a furnished vs. unfurnished apartment, a furnished one comes pre-set with all the essentials a tenant needs to feel at home. Think all basic furniture, like bathroom essentials, a dining table, kitchen appliances, a couch, and everything in between for comfortable living. Some landlords even go above and beyond by adding thoughtful interior design and decor. In other words, these spaces offer comfort that goes beyond just windows and walls. 

Pros and Cons of Renting a Furnished Apartment

Before signing the lease for a furnished place, let’s go through the pros and cons. What works great for one person might not fit someone else’s needs. Take a moment to weigh what fits your lifestyle, budget, and plans. 

Pros of Renting a Furnished Apartment 

Renting a furnished place comes with many advantages. Let’s consider a few of them to keep in mind when considering a furnished apartment during your housing search:

1. Moving Takes Less Effort

Moving into a new place can be overwhelming. If you’ve ever tried getting a sofa up a Philly rowhouse staircase, you know the struggle. However, with a furnished apartment, a lot of that stress disappears. You don’t have to worry as much. You just bring your bags, and you’re close to being all set. 

2. Furnished Apartments are Stylish

Most landlords put a lot of work into making these spaces feel cozy and homey. Some even go the extra mile with tasteful décor and thoughtful touches. Thanks to this, you can get an Instagram-worthy home without all the effort attached. 

3. Perfect for Short-Term Renters

Sometimes you might be looking for a place to crash as you finish up a project for a few months or are getting the feel for a new area. In these cases, furnished apartments can be a great fit. Everything you need is already there. So, you won’t have to pour as much money into a shorter stay.

4. Flexible Leasing Options

Some landlords offer flexible lease terms. So, if you don’t know if you’ll be staying for a few months or a full year, you could have options. Your landlord may be able to iron out ideal terms with you. 

Cons of Renting a Furnished Apartment 

Now that we’ve seen the perks of renting furnished apartments, let’s take a look at a few possible downsides.

1. You’re Responsible for What’s Already There

When you’re living in a furnished space, you’re responsible for keeping everything in good condition. That means if anything gets damaged—whether it’s the couch, table, or microwave—it’s on you. After all, the next tenant should find the place just as intact as you did.

2. The Setup Is Already Decided for You

You might not have the freedom to rearrange or personalize the space the way you’d like. If the layout doesn’t quite suit your style or needs, there’s not a lot you can do about it. You’re stuck with it, anyway. 

3. Higher Monthly Rent

Furnished apartments usually come at a slightly higher cost. And it makes sense. You’re paying not just for the space, but for the furniture, appliances, and convenience that come with it. Be sure you can pay the price tag or get roommates who can help you do that.

How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Furnished Apartment?

Now, let’s talk numbers. In many places, furnished apartments usually cost more than unfurnished ones. This makes sense, as you’re paying for the convenience of having virtually everything in place.

Prices can vary a lot. To give you an idea, as of early 2025, most furnished places in Philadelphia fall somewhere between $1,397 and $2,934 a month, depending on the size, location, and what’s included. Places closer to the downtown or with extra perks (like a gym or in-unit laundry) will likely land on the higher end of that range. 

Looking for a Furnished Apartment in Philly? We Can Help!

If you’re thinking about renting a furnished apartment, there’s a lot you should consider, like your budget, how long you’re staying, and what kind of space actually feels like home to you. Furnished places are very convenient, but they can cost a little more. That’s why it helps to weigh your options.

At Bay Property Management Group, we have homes in all shapes, sizes, and price points. If you want something simple, flexible, and move-in ready, we’ve got you. Take a look at our current listings here—your next home just might be waiting!