TL;DR
A renter in Brooklyn spent over $40,000 on renovations and decor for her apartment, despite typical expectations against extensive spending on rentals. The story highlights her personal choice and the apartment’s unique features.
A Brooklyn renter has invested more than $40,000 into her apartment, including renovations and decor, challenging conventional views on spending in rental properties.
Brigette Muller, a content creator known as @hummusbirrd on TikTok, spent approximately $40,000 on her 560-square-foot, rent-stabilized Brooklyn apartment. This amount includes $20,000 on renovation materials and labor, and another $20,000 on furniture, decor, lighting, and hardware. Her goal was to transform the apartment into a space she loved, rather than a temporary dwelling.
The apartment features historic charm, such as arches, an original tin ceiling, built-in cabinets, white wood floors, and a fireplace mantel. It is rent-stabilized, and her landlord has been supportive of her renovations, provided she covers the costs. Her updates include a new kitchen countertop, sink, fixtures, and custom shelving, as well as extensive use of curtains and storage solutions to maximize the small space.
Brigette has publicly shared her renovation journey on TikTok and in her apartment tour, emphasizing her belief that investing in her home improves her quality of life and personal happiness, even in a rental setting.
Implications of High Spending on Rental Homes
This case questions traditional views on rental spending, illustrating that personal satisfaction and home improvement can justify significant investments. It may influence renter attitudes and landlord-tenant relationships, especially in rent-stabilized units where tenants have more flexibility to customize their space. The story also raises broader questions about the limits and expectations of rental property renovations, especially when tenants are willing to invest substantial sums into their homes.
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Background on Renting and Home Improvements
Typically, renters are advised to limit spending on improvements due to the temporary nature of leases and restrictions from landlords. However, in this case, Brigette’s apartment is rent-stabilized, and her landlord has been supportive of her renovations. This situation is relatively uncommon and highlights how some tenants are choosing to personalize their spaces despite conventional advice. The trend of investing heavily in rentals is gaining attention, especially among content creators and those seeking a highly personalized home environment.
“Brigette’s story exemplifies how personal investment in a rental can create a space that feels truly like home, even if it’s not owned.”
— Apartment Therapy
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Unanswered Questions About Long-Term Impact
It is not yet clear whether Brigette’s investment will influence her decision to stay long-term or if she plans to move once her lease ends. The financial and emotional return on such a large investment remains uncertain, as does how typical this approach is among other renters in similar units.
Additionally, the broader implications for landlords and rental markets are still developing, with questions about whether more tenants might follow her example or if this remains an exception due to her unique circumstances.
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Future Plans for the Apartment and Rental Trends
Brigette has indicated she will continue to enjoy her personalized space and may undertake further upgrades. Observers will be watching whether her approach influences other renters or prompts discussions about the flexibility of renovation policies in rent-stabilized buildings. The story may also inspire more content creators to share their own renovation journeys, potentially shifting perceptions about spending in rentals.
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Key Questions
Why did Brigette decide to spend so much on her rental apartment?
She wanted to create a space she loved and felt comfortable in, especially since she spends a lot of time there as a content creator. Her goal was to make her apartment both functional and stylish.
Is it common for renters to spend this much on their apartments?
Generally, no. Most renters avoid extensive investments due to lease restrictions and the temporary nature of rentals. Brigette’s case is somewhat unique because her apartment is rent-stabilized and her landlord is supportive.
Could this set a precedent for other renters?
Potentially, but it depends on individual circumstances, landlord policies, and personal finances. Her story may encourage others to consider investing more in their rentals if conditions allow.
What are the risks of spending so much on a rental?
The main risks include not recouping the investment if moving becomes necessary, potential damage to the property, and possible conflicts with landlords if policies change.
Will Brigette stay in her apartment long-term?
It is unclear. She has expressed her strong connection to the space, but future plans depend on her personal circumstances and lease terms.
Source: Apartment Therapy
